East Wretham Heath

Downs, Moorland in Norfolk Breckland

England

East Wretham Heath

Marker pole on the Peddars Way The Peddars Way is a long distance footpath in Norfolk. It is 46 miles long and follows the route of a Roman road. It has been suggested by more than one writer that it was not created by the Romans but was an ancient trackway, a branch or extension of the Icknield Way, used and remodelled by the Romans. The name is said to be derived from the Latin pedester – on foot. It starts at Knettishall Heath in Suffolk (near the Norfolk-Suffolk border, about 4 miles east of Thetford), and it links with the Norfolk Coast Path at Holme-next-the-Sea.
Combined with the Norfolk Coast Path, it forms the Peddars Way &amp; Norfolk Coast Path National Trail, one of 15 National Trails in England and Wales, and the two paths together run for 97 miles.
Wikipedia: <span class="nowrap"><a title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peddars_Way" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peddars_Way">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> — Marker pole on the Peddars Way Credit: Basher Eyre

East Wretham Heath, located in Norfolk, England, is a diverse and ecologically important area known for its downs and moorland. Covering approximately 250 hectares, it is a protected nature reserve managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. The heath is situated on sandy soils, which contribute to its unique habitat and rich biodiversity.

The landscape of East Wretham Heath is characterized by undulating slopes, open grassland, and heather-covered areas. The downs consist of gently rolling hills with sparse vegetation, while the moorland features a mix of heather, gorse, and bracken. These habitats provide a haven for a wide range of plant and animal species.

The reserve is home to several rare and threatened species, including the stone curlew, a ground-nesting bird that is a symbol of the heath. Other bird species that can be spotted here include the nightjar, woodlark, and Dartford warbler. The area also supports a diverse array of insects, reptiles, and small mammals.

In addition to its ecological significance, East Wretham Heath has historical importance. It was once used as a training ground for military exercises during World War II, and remnants of wartime structures can still be seen today.

Visitors to East Wretham Heath can explore the reserve through a network of well-maintained footpaths and trails. The Norfolk Wildlife Trust provides information boards and guided walks to help educate visitors about the unique flora and fauna found in the area. With its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, East Wretham Heath offers a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

East Wretham Heath Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.457665/0.81621831 or Grid Reference TL9188. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Marker pole on the Peddars Way

The Peddars Way is a long distance footpath in Norfolk. It is 46 miles long and follows the route of a Roman road. It has been suggested by more than one writer that it was not created by the Romans but was an ancient trackway, a branch or extension of the Icknield Way, used and remodelled by the Romans. The name is said to be derived from the Latin pedester – on foot. It starts at Knettishall Heath in Suffolk (near the Norfolk-Suffolk border, about 4 miles east of Thetford), and it links with the Norfolk Coast Path at Holme-next-the-Sea. Combined with the Norfolk Coast Path, it forms the Peddars Way & Norfolk Coast Path National Trail, one of 15 National Trails in England and Wales, and the two paths together run for 97 miles. Wikipedia: Link