The West Acre Way – Jubilee Trail

Creating  5 new trails with the aim of improving accessibility to the natural world, encouraging exercise and the enjoyment of the outdoors was Norfolk’s way of celebrating Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee . What an asset to the county they are! Almost on our doorstep is The West Acre Way – a new trail linking Gayton to West Acre, primarily using newly dedicated paths across the West Acre Estate to link sections of the existing footpath network.

The 12km (7.5 mile) trail run’s through a new environmental scheme in the Nar Valley. Beginning (or ending) at the Gayton Crown Pub with its 11th century origins, the path wends its way through the West Acre Estate where you can witness some of the rewilding taking place along the River Nar. You’ll pass White Park Cattle, Exmoor Ponies, and Iron Age Pigs as you wander the new permissive paths before reaching historic West Acre, where you’ll find the newly refurbished pub, The Stag. Continuing along the existing pathways for a further mile or so will take you into Castle Acre where a visit to the Priory and the excellent coffee shop, Whittles, is highly recommended.

You’ll find details on the West Acre Way here, and more information on the other Platinum trails by following the link here.

The starting point for West Acre Way is either at The Crown pub in Gayton (PE32 1PA – 6.5 miles/9 minute minute drive from West Heath Barn) or, if you do it in reverse, The Stag Pub in West Acre (PE32 1TR- 6.5 miles/13 minute drive from West Heath Barn).