4.7
(733)
3,954
hikers
9
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Upton With Fishley are characterized by the flat, open landscapes of the Norfolk Broads, offering accessible routes suitable for various abilities. The region features extensive marshes, reed beds, and wet woodlands, with the River Bure meandering through the area. Elevation changes are minimal, making for generally easy walking conditions across the terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.6
(8)
36
hikers
7.96km
02:00
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
30
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(3)
20
hikers
4.47km
01:08
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.69km
01:11
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
6.36km
01:36
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Also known as Upton Black Mill due to its tarred black tower, Upton Tall Mill is a classic Norfolk drainage mill. It's thought to date back to around 1800 and is now a private residence. Its boat-shaped cap helps to make this a particularly conspicuous landmark on any walk in this part of the Broads.
0
0
With its impressive fleet of vessels, Eastwood Whelpton is a classic Broads boatyard. Located on the edge of the village of Upton, it connects to the River Bure via Upton Dyke. Nearby is the beguiling sight of Palmers Hollow Post Mill, one of only two 'Hollow Post' drainage mills remaining in the national park. For a walk rich in wildlife, it's just a short stroll to Upton Broad and Marshes nature reserve from here.
0
0
A gorgeous reserve in the heart of the Broads, Upton Broad and Marshes hosts several distinctive habitats. Its mix of alder carr woodland, fen, reedbed and grazing marsh makes it a haven for some of the region's most coveted wildlife, including the swallowtail butterfly. You might also see water voles, otters and a huge range of dragonflies, with over 20 recorded species.
0
0
On this stretch of the River Bure you can see two examples of drainage mills, Upton Mill and Oby Drainage Mills. The mills pump water from the dikes out to tidal waterways to keep the land free of water. This is now done by electrical pumps but the windmills remain an iconic feature of the landscape.
0
0
When we passed through in early spring, we were amazed at the amount of Mute Swans on the surrounding farmland. On several occasions, groups of swans flew over to land in Upton Dyke and the River Bure. There is a small car park that is free to use.
1
0
These tall reedbeds are good to explore throughout the seasons. Great for all ages too. Worth noting that it could get muddy throughout wet periods, particularly in the winter.
1
0
Upton Dyke is set amid marshes which have been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, due to the rare wildlife here. The area is in the care of Norfolk Wildlife Trust. As you follow the dyke, you can admire the moored boats and keep a look out for rare birds and insects.
2
0
There are around 9 family-friendly hiking trails in Upton With Fishley. Most of these, 6 to be precise, are rated as easy, making them perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing. The remaining 3 are considered moderate.
The terrain around Upton With Fishley is predominantly flat, which makes it very accessible and enjoyable for families. You'll find paths winding through serene marshes, dense reed beds, and along the picturesque River Bure. While generally easy, some marshy sections can be muddy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Upton With Fishley are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Upton Marshes loop is a great option for exploring the Broads, and the Upton Black Mill – River Bure and Drainage Mills loop offers a pleasant, easy walk past historical features.
Many trails in the Norfolk Broads are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves like Upton Broad and Marshes, to protect the abundant wildlife. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
Upton With Fishley is a fantastic spot for wildlife observation. Children might be thrilled to spot marsh harriers, bitterns, and various wading birds. Lucky visitors could even catch a glimpse of otters, water voles, or Chinese water deer. The area is also home to numerous species of dragonflies and swallowtail butterflies, especially in warmer months.
Absolutely! The area is rich in history and unique sights. You can discover the historic 18th-century How Hill Windmill, or the iconic Broads drainage mills like Turf Fen Drainage Mill. The atmospheric ruins of St. Mary's Church, Fishley, with a large oak tree growing within, offer a magical place to explore.
Given the generally flat terrain, many paths are suitable for prams or strollers, particularly those that follow wider, well-maintained tracks. However, some sections, especially in marshy areas or along narrower riverside paths, might be uneven or muddy. We recommend checking the specific route details on komoot for the most up-to-date information on surface conditions before heading out.
Parking is generally available at key access points for the trails, often near villages or popular starting points. Specific parking information is usually provided within the details of each komoot tour, so it's advisable to check the individual route page before your visit.
Spring and summer are particularly lovely for family hikes, as the weather is generally milder, and the wildlife is very active, with birds nesting and dragonflies emerging. Autumn offers beautiful colours, while winter can provide crisp, quiet walks, though some paths might be muddier. The flat terrain makes it enjoyable year-round, just be prepared for potential mud in wetter seasons.
While specific recommendations for pubs with play areas aren't available, Upton With Fishley and nearby villages often have traditional pubs and cafes where families can refuel. These establishments are usually welcoming to hikers and offer a chance to experience local hospitality after your walk.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Upton With Fishley, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the abundance of wildlife, and the easy, accessible paths that make it perfect for families. The picturesque views of the Broads and the historical drainage mills are also frequently highlighted as major attractions.
Family-friendly walks in Upton With Fishley vary in length, but many are designed to be manageable for a few hours. For instance, the Upton Dyke loop is about 4.5 km, taking around 1 hour 10 minutes, while the Hiking loop from Upton with Fishley is closer to 6.4 km, taking around 1 hour 35 minutes. This allows families to choose a route that best suits their children's energy levels.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.