Norfolk is a strong choice for family cycling, with former railway lines, forest trails, estate paths and quieter countryside routes offering plenty of ways to explore on two wheels.
Some routes are largely traffic-free and well suited to newer riders, while others use public roads and are better for older or more confident children.
Here are five family-friendly cycling options in Norfolk, including distance, terrain and the type of rider each route may suit.
Before choosing a family cycling route
“Family-friendly” doesn't mean every route is right for every child.
Before setting off, consider:
- how much of the route is traffic-free;
- your child's current cycling confidence;
- distance and gradient;
- the riding surface;
- road crossings;
- whether you can shorten the route easily;
- weather and recent trail conditions; and
- where you can stop for toilets, food or a break.
For younger riders, choosing a short section of a longer trail can be much more enjoyable than trying to complete the entire route.
1. Marriott's Way: Norwich to Aylsham
Distance: approximately 26 miles / 42 km for the full route
Terrain: former railway lines with largely off-road riding and some road crossings
Best for: families wanting flexible distances and relatively gentle cycling
Marriott's Way runs between Norwich and Aylsham along the routes of two former railway lines.
At approximately 26 miles from end to end, it is much longer than most younger children will want to ride in one outing, but there are numerous access points along the way.
That makes it easy to choose a shorter section around places such as:
- Norwich;
- Drayton;
- Lenwade;
- Reepham;
- Cawston; and
- Aylsham.
The route passes through countryside and wildlife-rich habitats and also includes reminders of its railway history.
Although much of Marriott's Way is away from motor traffic, there are road crossings along the route, so children still need appropriate supervision and bike control.
Why families may like it
The biggest advantage is flexibility. You can ride a few miles, stop for a picnic or café visit and simply return the way you came.
2. Bure Valley Path: Aylsham to Hoveton and Wroxham
Distance: 9 miles / approximately 14.5 km each way
Terrain: shared walking and cycling path alongside the railway
Best for: railway fans and families looking for a manageable linear trail
The Bure Valley Path links Aylsham with Hoveton and Wroxham.
The 9-mile path runs alongside the narrow-gauge Bure Valley Railway and passes through countryside near villages including Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall.
For children who enjoy trains, riding alongside the railway adds something different to the journey.
The full out-and-back journey would be approximately 18 miles, so younger riders may be better suited to completing only part of the route.
Why families may like it
It combines cycling with a destination and gives families several ways to plan a shorter outing rather than treating nine miles as a compulsory target.
Check current Bure Valley Railway timetables separately if you're hoping to combine cycling with a train journey.
3. Blickling Estate Multi-Use Trail
Distance: 4 miles / 6.4 km
Terrain: hard-surface trail with some sand, tree roots and gradients
Best for: shorter family rides and children building confidence
The Blickling Estate Multi-Use Trail, near Aylsham, is an easy 4-mile circular route around Blickling Park.
The National Trust describes it as suitable for cyclists, walkers, pushchairs and adapted wheelchair users.
The trail runs through woodland and open parkland, passing landmarks including:
- Great Wood;
- the Tower; and
- the Mausoleum.
The hard surface makes it more predictable than many natural trails, although families should still expect some sand, tree roots, slopes and other shared-path users.
Why families may like it
At four miles, it provides a more manageable complete loop than many of Norfolk's long-distance cycling routes.
Blickling also has parking, toilets and cafés on site, making the logistics of a family ride simpler.
4. Shepherd Cycling Trail at High Lodge, Thetford Forest
Distance: 5 miles / 8 km, with a 3.5-mile / 5.5 km shortcut
Grade: green
Terrain: relatively flat forest roads, tracks and trails
Best for: beginners and families wanting an easy off-road forest ride
The Shepherd Cycling Trail at High Lodge is Forestry England's green-graded family cycling route.
The main trail is approximately five miles long, but a shortcut reduces the ride to around 3.5 miles.
Forestry England describes it as relatively flat and wide, using a mixture of gravel forest roads, tracks and trails.
It is aimed at families and novice cyclists and is also suitable for many tag-alongs, trailers and child seats.
Why families may like it
You get the feeling of a woodland adventure without immediately moving onto more technical mountain-bike trails.
High Lodge also has toilets, a café, play areas and on-site cycle hire.
5. Pedal and Play at High Lodge
Distance: almost 2 km of cycling tracks
Terrain: progressive off-road cycling loops
Best for: young riders developing skills and confidence
Also at High Lodge, Pedal and Play opened in 2025 specifically with younger cyclists and families in mind.
The cycling area includes four progressive loops, beginning with straightforward green-graded sections and introducing optional blue-graded challenges as skills develop.
Forestry England says the facility is designed for children aged three and above and is intended to help young riders develop cycling skills and confidence.
For a child who isn't yet ready for a five-mile forest route, this can be a much more suitable starting point.
Why families may like it
Children can repeat shorter sections, practise particular skills and progress gradually rather than needing to complete a point-to-point journey.
Bonus route for confident riders: Norfolk Coast Cycleway
Distance: approximately 112 miles for the complete route
Terrain: predominantly quieter public roads inland from the coast
Best for: confident older children and families comfortable riding on roads
The Norfolk Coast Cycleway runs approximately 112 miles from King's Lynn to Great Yarmouth via Cromer.
It is important not to confuse this with the Norfolk Coast Path.
The Coast Cycleway is largely a road-based cycling route that follows quieter lanes inland from the coast. It is therefore very different from traffic-free routes such as the Shepherd Trail or Blickling Estate.
For families with confident older riders, shorter sections can provide access to North Norfolk's countryside and coastal villages.
For beginners or children who are not comfortable riding on public roads, one of the traffic-free options above is likely to be more appropriate.
Which Norfolk cycle route is best for younger children?
For a younger or newer rider, start by looking at:
- Blickling Estate's 4-mile multi-use trail;
- Pedal and Play at High Lodge;
- the 3.5-mile shortcut on the Shepherd Trail; or
- a short section of Marriott's Way or the Bure Valley Path.
The best choice depends on the individual child rather than age alone.
A confident five-year-old may comfortably manage a route that another child of the same age finds tiring or intimidating.
How far should children cycle?
There isn't a standard distance that every child should be expected to ride.
Consider:
- their previous cycling experience;
- bike fit;
- terrain;
- hills;
- weather;
- surface conditions;
- how many breaks you plan; and
- whether they still need enough energy for the return journey.
When in doubt, start shorter.
Finishing a ride while your child still wants to continue is usually better than turning the last few miles into a struggle.
Check bike fit before a longer family ride
Children grow quickly, and a bike that fitted well during the last family holiday may no longer be the best fit.
For YOMO bikes, sizing should prioritise inside-leg measurement, current fit and rider confidence, using age only as an approximate guide.
Check that your child can comfortably:
- reach the handlebars;
- operate the brakes;
- start and stop;
- control the bike at low speeds; and
- pedal without looking excessively cramped.
If you're unsure, use the YOMO Perfect Size Finder before planning a longer ride.
Give the bike a quick check before setting off
Before any family cycling day, check:
- tyre condition and pressure;
- both brakes;
- wheel security;
- the chain and drivetrain;
- gears on geared bikes;
- handlebar and saddle security; and
- lights if there is any chance you'll be riding in darkness or poor light.
If you're hiring bikes, make sure each child's bike is adjusted for them before leaving the hire centre.
Remember that these are shared routes
Many traffic-free cycling routes are shared with walkers, runners, wheelchair users, horses or other cyclists.
Encourage children to:
- control their speed;
- look well ahead;
- give other users space;
- slow down when passing;
- use a bell or voice appropriately when approaching from behind; and
- be prepared to stop.
Traffic-free does not mean hazard-free.
Check current route conditions before travelling
Trail conditions and access arrangements can change due to:
- maintenance;
- forestry work;
- weather damage;
- temporary closures;
- events; or
- seasonal restrictions.
Always check the route operator's current information before making a special journey.
Frequently asked questions about family cycling in Norfolk
Is Norfolk good for family cycling?
Yes. Norfolk has several family cycling options including former railway trails, forest routes and estate paths. The riding environment varies considerably, so choose a specific route that matches your child's experience.
What is the best traffic-free cycle route in Norfolk for children?
There isn't one route that suits every child. Marriott's Way, the Bure Valley Path, Blickling's Multi-Use Trail and the green Shepherd Trail at High Lodge all provide substantial riding away from regular road traffic, although road crossings or shared-use sections may still be present.
How long is Marriott's Way?
Marriott's Way runs for approximately 26 miles between Norwich and Aylsham. Families can use one of the many access points to create a much shorter ride.
How long is the Bure Valley Path?
The Bure Valley Path is approximately nine miles between Aylsham and Hoveton/Wroxham.
Is the Norfolk Coast Cycleway traffic-free?
No. The Norfolk Coast Cycleway mainly follows quieter roads and lanes and should not be treated as a traffic-free children's trail.
Can you hire bikes at Thetford Forest?
Yes. High Lodge currently has on-site cycle hire, although availability should be checked before travelling.
Plan a Norfolk family cycling adventure
Norfolk gives families several very different ways to ride.
For younger riders, a four-mile estate loop or short forest trail may be enough. More experienced children can build towards longer sections of Marriott's Way, the Bure Valley Path or, when their road skills are appropriate, parts of the Norfolk Coast Cycleway.
The goal doesn't need to be completing the longest route.
Choose a ride that fits your child's skills, confidence and energy, leave time for stops and finish while cycling is still enjoyable.
For more UK destination ideas, read our guide to the best family cycling destinations in the UK.
If your child has grown since their last family ride, check their YOMO bike size or explore the YOMO children's bike range.
