9 Holkham Hall Walking Routes

Published on 9 min read

View of Holkham Hall
Caravan and Motorhome Club Logo

Caravan and Motorhome Club Holkham Hall Pop-Up Campsite

This summer OS Maps is proud to be the Official Route Partner for The Caravan and Motorhome Club’s summer pop-up campsite in the stunning setting of Holkham Hall.  The pop up campsites offer a unique way to experience the great outdoors in iconic UK locations—no membership needed. At Holkham Hall, set within a breath-taking Norfolk estate, you’ll find the perfect base for walking and cycling adventures, with OS Maps routes curated to help you explore more. For more information or to book your stay click here.

Carefully curated, this collection of OS Maps routes offers something for every explorer staying at the Caravan and Motorhome Club Holkham Hall Pop-Up Campsite. As part of your stay, you’ll receive a complimentary one-month OS Maps Premium subscription—the perfect companion for discovering North Norfolk’s natural beauty and hidden gems.

From gentle family-friendly loops through the Holkham Hall’s parkland, to longer walks reaching the sweeping sands of Holkham Beach and the Norfolk Coast Path, each route highlight’s the area’s rich history and natural beauty. Within the Holkham Estate, woodland trails, coastal vistas and historic landmarks are enhanced by exclusive waypoint information that brings each journey to life.

If you’re keen to explore further, we’ve also included routes beyond the estate—ideal for short strolls or full-day adventures. With OS Maps, navigating and discovering more of Holkham Hall and North Norfolk couldn’t be easier.

Holkham Hall – A Stunning Stately Home in Wells-next-the-Sea

View of Holkham Hall with parkland

Located within the Norfolk Coast National Landscape and a short distance from the Norfolk Broads National Park, Holkham Hall is a beautiful 18th-century Palladian country house set within 25,000 acres of parkland and farmland. Built between 1734 and 1764 for Thomas Coke, 1st Earl of Leicester, the estate remains the family home of the 8th Earl of Leicester today.

Visitors can explore the Holkham Estate on foot or by bike, following scenic trails through parkland and peaceful countryside. Inside Holkham Hall, admire a world-class art collection featuring masterpieces by Van Dyck, Rubens, and Claude Lorrain. Throughout the year, the estate hosts a wide variety of events and activities for all ages, from seasonal festivals to educational workshops.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or planning a family day out, Holkham Hall and the surrounding North Norfolk coast offers something for everyone.


OS Maps Routes from Holkham Hall

1. Walking Around Holkham Park – A Stroll Through History and Nature

Step into the heart of the Holkham Estate with this gentle loop through Holkham Park—perfect for families, casual walkers, or anyone seeking to unwind in nature. This peaceful route blends scenic beauty with history, offering a memorable way to explore one of Norfolk’s most iconic landscapes.

To begin, the trial starts near the main entrance and leads you past the majestic Holkham Hall. From there, it winds ancient woodland and open parkland, offering tranquil views of the serpentine lake and Holkham’s striking obelisk that crowns the skyline. Along the way, informative waypoints reveal fascinating stories about the estate’s history, architecture, and conservation efforts.

Whether you’re admiring the wildlife, enjoying a picnic, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, the Holkham Park Explorer provides a delightful escape into both nature and heritage. In all, it’s an ideal route for those seeking relaxation, discovery, and a deeper connection to the landscape.

  • 🏰 Panoramic views of Holkham Hall and its landscaped estate grounds
  • 🌳 Woodland trails and open green spaces for relaxed walking
  • 📜 Discover historical landmarks and stories from the Holkham estate
  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Easy-to-follow, family-friendly walking route

 2. Discovering the Deer Park – A Peaceful Encounter with Nature

Wander through the tranquil heart of Holkham’s historic deer park on this gentle and rewarding walk. Perfect for nature lovers, the Deer Park Discovery Walk offers a unique opportunity to observe fallow deer. Enjoy watching as they graze freely in their natural habitat, surrounded by sweeping parkland and ancient trees.

Following the route, it meanders through open grasslands and shaded woodland. Offering peaceful views, it provides a chance to connect with the estate’s rich biodiversity. Along the way, you’ll discover insights into Holkham’s conservation work, which plays a vital role in protecting both wildlife and the historic landscape.

Whether you’re walking solo, with family, or simply looking for a mindful moment in nature, this route is a serene escape into one of Norfolk’s most beautiful green spaces. In essence, it’s a perfect blend of relaxation, wildlife, and heritage.

  • 🦌 Spot fallow deer in their natural habitat
  • 🌳 Explore peaceful woodland trails and open parkland
  • 📚Discover Holkham’s conservation work
  • 👣 Accessible walking route suitable for all ages

3. Through the Pinewoods and Across the Dunes – Norfolk’s Wild Side Uncovered

Step beyond the grandeur of Holkham Park and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Norfolk coast on this invigorating 10km loop. The Pinewoods & Dunes Discovery Loop is a journey through contrasting landscapes—where shaded forest trails give way to windswept dunes and vast, open beaches. As a result, it’s the perfect route for those seeking both tranquillity and adventure.

Starting near Holkham Hall, the route leads you through the cool, fragrant pinewoods that fringe the estate. Soon after, it opens out onto the dramatic sand dunes and big-sky views of Holkham Gap. It’s a walk that rewards every step with changing scenery, from whispering trees to the rhythmic crash of waves.

Perfect for walkers looking to stretch their legs and immerse themselves in nature, along the way you’ll catch glimpses of the area’s rich biodiversity and coastal ecology. Whether you’re chasing sea air, solitude, or scenic variety, this loop delivers a true taste of Norfolk’s natural drama.

  • 🌲 Walk shaded trails through Holkham’s scenic pinewoods
  • 🏖️ Take in sweeping sand dunes and panoramic coastal view
  • 🐚 Explore diverse habitats rich in wildlife and natural beauty
  • 🚶‍♀️ Tackle a longer, more adventurous walking loop
OS Guidebooks and Maps

EXPLORE THE

OS Shop

We are with you every step of the way. Shop our trusted walking and hiking maps and guidebooks
so you can explore the outdoors with confidence.

Go to the shop

4. Beachbound from the Hall – From Stately Grounds to Coastal Freedom

This refreshing loop offers a seamless transition from the grandeur of Holkham Hall to the wild beauty of the Norfolk coast. Beginning within the landscaped parkland, the route winds through woodland paths and open fields before before arriving at the expansive sands of Holkham Beach—one of the UK’s most breath-taking coastlines.

Along the way, walkers can admire the serpentine lake, glimpse local wildlife, and and experience the landscape’s gradual shift from manicured estate to natural dunes. In all, it’s a walk that captures Holkham’s essence: heritage, nature, and space to breathe.

Ideal for those seeking a blend of culture and coastal adventure, this loop makes for a rewarding half-day walk packed with variety and visual appeal.

  • 🏰 Begin at Holkham Hall and explore its historic parkland
  • 🌲 Follow woodland and field paths toward the coast
  • 🏖️ Arrive at Holkham Beach with its vast, open sands
  • 🚶‍♀️ Enjoy a varied, scenic loop ideal for relaxed exploration

5. Wandering the Walled Garden – A Quiet Stroll Through Holkham’s Hidden Corners

Take a slower pace and enjoy the quieter side of the Holkham Estate on the Walled Garden Meander. Designed for peaceful walking, this short, gentle loop is ideal for those looking to explore the estate’s more tucked-away treasures at their own rhythm.

As you follow the path, the route skirts the beautifully restored Walled Garden and passes Holkham Stories, where you can learn more about the estate’s rich heritage and ongoing conservation work. In addition, seasonal blooms, shaded paths, and plenty of benches invite you to pause, reflect and soak in the surroundings.

Whether you’re visiting with family, enjoying a solo stroll, or simply looking to unwind, this route offers a charming slice of Holkham’s history and horticultural beauty.

  • 🌺 Explore Holkham’s historic Walled Garden (ticket required)
  • 🏛️ Visit the Holkham Stories experience along the way
  • 🌳 Stroll gentle paths through tranquil parkland
  • 🧘‍♀️ Perfect for mindful breaks, photography, and quiet reflection

6. Hiking the Coast – A Scenic Journey from Estate to Harbour

Embark on a rewarding circular walk linking the elegance of Holkham Hall with the vibrant charm of Wells-next-the-Sea. Along this coastal route you’ll experience a rich tapestry of landscapes—from stately parkland and pinewoods to expansive salt marshes and tidal creeks—all under Norfolk’s famously wide skies.

Following well-marked paths, the walk gently transitions from the peaceful grounds of Holkham to the dynamic shoreline. Here, shifting sands and sea breezes create a scene that’s ever evolving. As you approach Wells, enjoy views of colourful beach huts, bobbing boats, and the cheerful bustle of the harbour.

Perfect for those who love nature, sea air, and a mid-walk treat, this hike is both invigorating and visually stunning.

  • 🏞️ Discover varied coastal landscapes and diverse habitats
  • 🌊 Enjoy sweeping views of the coastline and tidal marshes
  • 🏘️ End your walk in the vibrant harbour town of Wells-next-the-Sea
  • 🍦 Perfect for a scenic walk with a café or pub stop

7. Crossing Dunes and Dynasties – A Journey Across Dunes and Through Time

Follow the rhythm of the Norfolk coast on this evocative walk from Brancaster Beach to the ancient Roman fort of Branodunum. Along the way, discover a striking blend of coastal beauty and historical intrigue.

As you progress along sandy paths, through salt marshes, and past windswept dunes, you’ll be rewarded at every step with expansive views of the North Sea and ever-changing skies.  As you walk, you’ll trace the footsteps of Roman soldiers and coastal communities, uncovering how this landscape has shaped—and been shaped by—centuries of history.

Ideal for walkers seeking a deeper connection to place, this route offers both visual drama and quiet reflection on time, nature, and legacy.

  • 🌊 Walk coastal trails with sweeping views of the North Sea
  • 🏛️ Explore the historic site of the Roman fort at Branodunum
  • 🐦 Discover thriving birdlife and coastal plant species
  • 🧭 Experience a thought-provoking blend of nature and history

8. Uncovering Norfolk’s Coastal Charm – A Convergence of History and Nature

Step into a landscape where history, nature, and coastal beauty converge. Combining stately heritage with wild marshland magic, this walk offers a captivating blend of past and present.

Starting in the charming village of Burnham Market, you’ll wind through historic Burnham Norton and Burnham Overy Town. Along the way, you’ll encounter expansive salt marshes, winding creeks and catch glimpses of Holkham Hall.

Whether you’re a seasoned walker or a weekend explorer, this route is a perfect escape. With its flat, accessible terrain, it’s ideal for birdwatching, photography, picnics, or simply soaking in North Norfolk’s peaceful atmosphere.

  • 🏞️ Walk through diverse Norfolk landscapes—from village lanes to coastal marshes
  • 🐦 Wildlife spotting paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers
  • 🏰 Enjoy historic highlights including Holkham Hall and traditional Norfolk architecture
  • 🚶‍♀️ Gentle, accessible walking route with plenty of rest stops

9. Reflecting on Coast and Countryside – A Classic Norfolk Experience

Discover the timeless charm of North Norfolk on the Burnham Loop, a scenic circular walk that blends countryside calm with coastal character. Starting and ending in Burnham Market, you’ll gently wind through peaceful lanes, open fields, and salt marshes.

You’ll pass through Burnham Overy Town and Burnham Overy Staithe. Here you’ll enjoy sweeping views across the marshes and creeks, with Holkham’s distant dunes shimmering on the horizon. Rich in wildlife, especially birdlife, the route offers plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the natural beauty of the Norfolk Coast AONB.

If you’re looking for a relaxed countryside escape, the Burnham Loop is a perfect half-day adventure.

  • 🚶‍♂️ Enjoy an easy-going circular walking route
  • 🐦 Ideal for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts
  • 🏘️ Stroll through picturesque Norfolk villages
  • 🌊 Take in coastal views and the magic of marshland landscapes

OS Guidebooks and Maps

EXPLORE THE

OS Shop

We are with you every step of the way. Shop our trusted walking and hiking maps and guidebooks
so you can explore the outdoors with confidence.

Go to the shop
Liked by 0 users

EXPLORE WITH

OS Maps

Get more from the outdoors with OS Maps. Whether you’re planning a mountain hike, taking the kids for a woodland bike ride, or looking to discover a new local adventure, OS Maps helps you explore with more confidence.

Discover thousands of ready-made routes from outdoor experts; view & download maps directly to your phone, or print from your computer.
With trusted mapping, route planning tools & features, created by Ordnance Survey; OS Maps helps you make the most of your time outside.

Launch OS Maps
digital-maps-2

EXPLORE THE

OS Shop

Ordnance Survey are the experts in mapping. Shop our selection of UK Maps for hiking, walking and your next outdoor adventure. Plus don’t miss our selection of essential walking guidebooks.

Whether you’re exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the UK’s National Parks or enjoying a serene coastal getaway, our paper maps are your indispensable travel companion.

Go to the shop
buy uk hiking maps and walking guidebooks (2)