THE WENDLING WAY

“We are delighted to announce the launch of these new Trails. Originally conceived as a way of celebrating Her Late Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee and her love of nature and Norfolk, they will now stand as a permanent tribute to her life of remarkable loyalty and service.” - James Bagge DL, Chair of the organising committee.

The Wendling Way, running from Dereham to Gressenhall Museum, features a mix of fascinating history and landscape, including the most exciting rewilding project in the country – The Wendling Beck Environment Project. It runs near three Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) – Rush Meadow, Dillington Carr and Hoe Rough. A 1.2km stretch has been newly resurfaced and has been granted permissive access for cyclists. It connects Dereham to a much wider network of trails, including the Nar Valley Way and Wensum Way. Supported by Norse, the trail runs for just over 3 miles

Need to know

  • 5 km/3.2 miles. Allow 1 – 1.5 hours (relaxed pace).

  • A mix of country lanes, pavements, recently resurfaced path along Mill Lane. Take care coming into Dereham along Sandy Lane.

  • Yes, on leads.

  • Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse (10am-5pm when the museum is open); Cross Way or Cherry Tree car parks in Dereham.

  • A café at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse (note – free to enter the cafe but a payment is necessary for the museum). Cafés and pubs in Dereham town centre.

  • At Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse and Dereham Public Library.

  • Phase 1 of the improvement works is a 1.2km section of resurfacing between Gingerbread Corner and the south section of Mill Lane, which has been given permissive cycling access by the landowner. However, currently there are muddy sections at the top of Mill Lane and no drop-curb at the Fakenham Road crossing, which could pose issues for people in wheelchairs or with pushchairs. The wide-berth kissing gate at Gingerbread Corner necessitates cyclists to dismount. Please note, tandems and trikes are unlikely to be able to pass through the gate, although the Council is looking at suitable alternative options. We will continue to look at opportunities to improve accessibility on this section and work with the landowners as part of the Wendling Beck project to improve public access