Flat lanes & green fields – Cycling the NCN 1 from Fakenham to Harwich

Regal castles, colourful marshlands, historic harbours and the magnificent Norfolk Broads – cycling the National Cycle Network Route 1 is a wonderful journey through nature and history in South East England.

This Collection guides you 177 miles (285 km) from Fakenham to Harwich on the North Sea in six stages. With just 4,429 feet (1,350 m) of climbing, the NCN 1 is a perfect choice for riders of all abilities and ages. It is, in fact, one of the flattest routes in the National Cycle Network.

The NCN 1 may be flat, but it is far from boring. You can enjoy green, wide fields that stretch far into the horizon as you ride through rural Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex. These wonderful counties are steeped in history ranging from Roman invasion to Norman raids. As you ride, you can visit the impressive 12th-century Framlingham Castle, countless unique churches, and forgotten ports which were once a hub of trade, connecting the UK with the rest of the world.

Historic cities and towns such as Norwich, Halesworth, Framlingham, Woodbridge, Colchester and Ipswich, one of England’s oldest towns, also lie en route. These interesting places boast many pubs, restaurants, and cafes for a well-earned rest. You will also easily find accommodation in all of the stage destinations.

Pristine countryside, hedge-lined lanes, and the spectacular Norfolk Broads await you on this journey. The scenery is varied and beautiful despite its gentle gradients. As with most places, bright summer days are the best to enjoy this vibrant, green nature. However, you can ride the route all-year-round – just don’t forget your rain jacket.

The majority of the NCN 1 follows quiet country lanes, with occasional busy sections through towns and cities. You will also follow some traffic-free sections such as the Marriotts Way. The surfaces are mostly paved so you can ride any bike, although the traffic-free sections have some mild gravel and mud.

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Fakenham, the start of your adventure. Your best bet is to take the train to Norwich and ride the 26 miles (42 km) to the start of the route from there. Alternatively, you could start from Norwich and skip out the beginning. Luckily, Harwich has much easier transport links. From here, you can travel via Manningtree to London Liverpool Street.

If you wish to extend your trip, you could consider combining this route with the Norfolk Coast Cycleway (komoot.com/collection/903776/hidden-history-and-seascapes-along-the-norfolk-coast-cycleway) which is another spectacular route through Norfolk.