Avenue Plantation

Wood, Forest in Norfolk Breckland

England

Avenue Plantation

Trackbed in the Spring A view of the trackbed between North Elmham and County School station. This is my third time on this section, this occasion being a stroll with the family and dogs. — Trackbed in the Spring Credit: Ashley Dace

Avenue Plantation, located in Norfolk, is a picturesque woodland area known for its natural beauty and rich history. Covering a vast area, this plantation is characterized by its dense forest, towering trees, and meandering paths that provide a serene and tranquil environment for visitors.

The woodlands of Avenue Plantation are predominantly composed of a variety of tree species, including oak, beech, and birch. These trees, with their lush foliage and towering canopies, create a captivating sight throughout the year. The forest floor is covered in a thick carpet of ferns, moss, and wildflowers, adding to the area's enchanting allure.

One of the notable features of Avenue Plantation is the network of well-maintained footpaths that crisscross through the woodland. These paths offer visitors the opportunity to explore the plantation and immerse themselves in its natural wonders. Whether it's a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous hike, the plantation provides a range of options for outdoor enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural beauty, Avenue Plantation holds historical significance. The plantation dates back several centuries and has witnessed various significant events. It has been carefully preserved to retain its historical charm and serves as a reminder of the area's past.

Visitors to Avenue Plantation can enjoy a peaceful retreat, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the echoes of history. Whether it's a nature lover seeking solace or a history buff exploring the past, Avenue Plantation offers a unique experience in Norfolk's woodlands.

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Avenue Plantation Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.74983/0.93506756 or Grid Reference TF9820. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Trackbed in the Spring

A view of the trackbed between North Elmham and County School station. This is my third time on this section, this occasion being a stroll with the family and dogs.

Ashley Dace

County School Railway Station

See TF9822 : County School Railway Station

Ashley Dace

County School Station

The curious name of this remote Norfolk country junction derives from the nearby Norfolk County School, a public school that only operated from 1874 until 1895. However, it was reopened as the Watts Naval School in 1901, an establishment that prepared boys for a life in the navy with, from all accounts, a regime that would be considered intolerably harsh today. That school closed in 1953 followed only 11 years later by all passenger services at the station. However, the Mid-Norfolk Railway Preservation Trust has done a wonderful job in restoring it to the condition seen here. The long-term intention is to extend the Mid-Norfolk Railway here from its current terminus at Dereham.

Stephen McKay

County School Station

Detail of this immaculately restored station.

Stephen McKay

Road to the former Watts Naval School

Beyond County School station this is a private road that, until its closure in 1953, led to Watts Naval School, an establishment that prepared boys for a life in the navy. Nowadays, parts of the site are used for housing.

Stephen McKay

End of the line: County School

The track ends abruptly just beyond the platforms at County School station.

Stephen McKay

County School Station

Showing the station house and level crossing; there is clearly much work yet to be done before passenger trains on the Mid Norfolk Railway can run this far.

Stephen McKay

County School Station

Fallen leaves lie on the platform of this beautifully restored station on the former Wymondham - Wells line. The bay platform on the right was once used for the branch line service to Wroxham.

Stephen McKay

Lane at County School Station

Looking along the lane leading away from County School station with the former station house on the right.

Stephen McKay

North Elmham Chapel

Showing the eastern end of the remains of this ancient ecclesiastical building.

Stephen McKay

North Elmham Church

Dedicated to St Mary this is a substantial church for a village; in fact, North Elmham has a long ecclesiastical history having had a Saxon Cathedral (on a site a short distance away) until 1071, when the diocesan headquarters were moved to Thetford (it later moved to Norwich).

Stephen McKay

North Elmham village sign

As is usual in East Anglia, North Elmham sports a village sign depicting various aspects of its history.

Stephen McKay

County School Station

For an excellent history go to: Link

Evelyn Simak