Norwich named one of best UK cities for outdoor walks

Wellness brand Goodrays has created an index analysing the number of walks, the number and quality of green spaces and the city’s air quality to reveal the best cities to take a walk.  

Top spot was taken by Edinburgh due to its popular green spaces and rich history, ahead of Sheffield in second and Newcastle in third.

Elm Hill is historic and offers lots of curiosities (Image: Alanna Baker)

However, Norwich came in strongly at number four, ahead of Southampton and Bristol, with the fine city having the most walks per capita.

James Dean Wilson, from Great Yarmouth, will make the trip to Norwich at least twice a month with his sons.  

The river walk will take city folk past Cow Tower (Image: Alanna Baker)

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He said: “As a tourist it’s the river walk from the train station to the cathedral.  

“It is a really lovely walk and beautiful all year round.” 

James, who used to live in London, loves that Norwich provides green spaces as well as a city feel.  

James Dean Wilson from Great Yarmouth brings his two sons a couple of times per month (Image: James Dean Wilson)

He added: “As a single dad it’s a great thing to do mixing nature with a major city.  

"Norwich has much less hustle and bustle than larger cities and is easy to explore.” 

Hollie Davies grew up in Norwich and later moved to Colchester but often comes back to visit and loves taking a walk around the city. 

Hollie Davies enjoys the Earlham Park walk (Image: Hollie Davies)

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She said: “Norwich has so much to see with some very historic buildings, each with their own story – its great to explore. 

“My favourite walk is probably the Earlham Park walk and then through to UEA, it is so picturesque.” 

City centre walking provides lots of historic scenery (Image: Alanna Baker)

As well as these walks, Norwich also has Mousehold Heath which has lots of trails which can be followed up to Ketts Hill for stunning views of the city.  

And for something a bit longer Marriott's Way starts in the city walls and then goes on through Marlpit, Costessey, Drayton and all the way through to Aylsham.  

Some folk opt for visiting the city independents and eating along the river walk (Image: Alanna Baker)