If you're looking for a peaceful, dog-friendly woodland walk in Norfolk, look no further than Tyrrel’s Wood. Situated just off the A140 in South Norfolk, this hidden gem offers a serene escape into nature, perfect for a day out with your furry companion. In this post, I’ll take you
through everything you need to know about this beautiful wood, why it’s great for dogs, and what makes it one of our favourite local spots to explore.
About Tyrrel’s Wood
Tyrrel’s Wood is a lovely woodland area nestled in the heart of Norfolk and forms part of The Boudicca Way. This natural beauty spot is known for its tranquil atmosphere and diverse wildlife, making it the perfect location for nature lovers and walkers alike. Whether you're visiting for a peaceful stroll or to let your dog explore, this wood has something for everyone.
The woods is a part of Norfolk's extensive network of protected woodlands owned by The Woodland Trust and offers a wonderful blend of mature trees, meandering trails, and quiet spots where you can truly get away from it all. Tyrrel’s Wood also has a fascinating history, being home to ancient woodland site called the Boscus de Grischave which dates back to 1251.
The Walk at Tyrrel’s Wood
The walk through Tyrrel’s Wood is an absolute treat. We started at the main entrance just off Wood Lane, where there’s easy access for both parking and walking. The car park here is free however, it does get especially busy on weekends. The trails are well-maintained and provide a mix of dirt paths and board walks, making it a comfortable walk for all ages and fitness levels. The pathways are mostly accessible for all users, however, low lying tree roots and fallen debris will need to be navigated. During the wetter months, the pathways can get especially muddy so suitable footwear and a towel to wipe muddy paws is a must!
One of the highlights of the walk is the interconnecting pathways throughout the woods, which makes it an ideal place for exploring new routes on each visit. We found that Dottie, our Dalmatian, absolutely loved the variety of smells—she could sniff around for hours!
If you're visiting for the first time, I’d recommend sticking to the main circular trail that runs through the woodland for a gentle but picturesque route that offers the best views of the woods. Tyrrel's Wood is one of the shorter walks that we have done and whilst there are no trail signposts the main circular route is easy to follow and takes around 20 minutes to complete.
Dog-Friendly Features
Tyrell’s Wood is a fantastic place to visit with your dog. The area is open and spacious, with plenty of room for your dog to roam. It’s a perfect place for your pup to enjoy a bit of freedom, especially if they love to run off-lead. While the paths are fairly straightforward, there is lots of wildlife within the woodland and so it is advisable to keep your dog on a lead if they are prone to chasing other animals.
During our visit there was lots of opportunities for Dottie to splash in puddles and to explore the undergrowth, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Just be mindful that some of the trails can get a little muddy, especially after rain, so it’s always a good idea to bring a towel for your dog’s paws!
Facilities and Accessibility
Tyrell’s Wood is easily accessible by car, with a small free car park at the entrance off Wood Lane. The main entrance is clear and welcoming, and there are no steep hills or difficult terrain, making it a good option for families. While there are no cafes directly within the wood, there are some great options nearby to grab a coffee or a snack after your walk. Although there is one dog poo bin, this is at the main entrance to the woods and so you will need to carry around any doggy doo during your walk.
Conclusion
We had a fantastic time exploring Tyrrel’s Wood, and I can’t wait to return with Dottie for another adventure. If you’re looking for a relaxing, dog-friendly walk in Norfolk, this should definitely be on your list. Have you visited Tyrrel’s Wood? I’d love to hear about your experiences!
