Norfolk’s 232-mile Rebellion Way loop offers the perfect blend of stunning landscapes, historic towns, and coastal beauty. This carefully crafted 4-day itinerary breaks down this epic route into manageable segments while highlighting the best places to stay, eat, and explore along the way.
Day 1: Norwich to King’s Lynn (60 miles)
Starting point: Norwich
Begin your adventure in Norwich, a city where medieval charm meets modern vibrancy. Before setting off, visit the magnificent Norwich Cathedral with its stunning Norman architecture or grab a coffee at one of the quirky cafés in the historic Norwich Lanes.
Cyclist Tip: Stock up on supplies at Bicycle Links, a community bike shop that offers last-minute essentials and route advice.
The route: through the Broads
Your first day takes you northwest through the stunning Broads National Park. The initial miles offer gentle terrain as you pass through:
- Marriott’s Way – A traffic-free former railway path for the first section
- Reepham – A charming market town perfect for a mid-morning coffee stop
- Bawdeswell – Look for the distinctive round-tower church
- Litcham – A quintessential Norfolk village with a welcoming pub
The route gradually becomes more rolling as you approach Castle Acre with its impressive priory ruins – a perfect lunch spot and photo opportunity.
Evening destination: King’s Lynn
Arrive in historic King’s Lynn, where medieval Hanseatic architecture meets Georgian elegance. Head to King’s Staithe Square for a celebration drink overlooking the river.
Where to Stay: Bank House Hotel offers elegant rooms in a Georgian townhouse with secure bike storage and a riverside restaurant serving locally-sourced cuisine. Their cyclist package includes energy-rich breakfast and packed lunch options.
Check availability at Bank House Hotel
Day 2: King’s Lynn to Hunstanton (30 miles)
The royal route
Today’s shorter ride gives you time to explore the royal connections of West Norfolk. The route takes you through:
- Castle Rising – Home to one of the largest Norman keeps in England
- Sandringham Estate – The royal family’s private residence with magnificent grounds
- Dersingham Bog Nature Reserve – Look out for rare birds and butterflies
Coastal arrival: Hunstanton
Known locally as “Sunny Hunny,” Hunstanton is famous for its unique striped cliffs and spectacular sunsets over The Wash. The Victorian seaside resort offers a perfect afternoon to relax tired legs.
Must-See: Head to Old Hunstanton Beach to see the distinctive red and white striped cliffs – a perfect Instagram moment as the sun sets.
Where to Stay: The Wash & Tope Hotel provides comfortable sea-view rooms just steps from the promenade. Their secure bike storage, maintenance area, and hearty “cyclist’s breakfast” make this a perfect overnight stop.
Book your stay at The Wash & Tope
Day 3: Hunstanton to Cromer (55 miles)
The coastal journey
Day three offers spectacular coastal scenery along Norfolk’s famous northern coastline, following the National Cycle Network Route 1 for much of the way. Highlights include:
- Holkham Nature Reserve – Miles of unspoiled beach and pine forests
- Wells-next-the-Sea – A picture-perfect harbor town with excellent seafood
- Blakeney Point – Famous for its seal colonies (worth a short detour)
- Sheringham – A traditional seaside town with steam railway
The route offers occasional challenging hills by Norfolk standards, but the coastal views make every climb worthwhile.
Food Stop: The Hoste Arms in Burnham Market offers excellent cyclist-friendly lunches in a historic coaching inn.
Evening destination: Cromer
End your day in Cromer, the “Gem of the Norfolk Coast” with its iconic pier and renowned crab. The Victorian seaside resort retains much of its historic charm while offering excellent dining options.
Local Delicacy: No visit to Cromer is complete without trying the famous Cromer crab – sweet, delicate and packed with white meat.
Where to Stay: The Cliftonville Hotel stands proudly on the seafront, offering Edwardian elegance, spacious rooms with sea views, and excellent dining. Their cyclist facilities include secure storage, repair stands, and early breakfast options.
Reserve a room at The Cliftonville Hotel
Day 4: Cromer to Norwich (87 miles)
The final push
The longest day takes you through Norfolk’s beautiful interior, showcasing ancient woodlands, flint churches, and picturesque market towns. Key stops include:
- Holt – An elegant Georgian market town with excellent coffee shops
- Reepham – A historic market town at the junction of three former railway lines
- Whitwell Station – A preserved railway station turned cyclist café
- Marriott’s Way – The final traffic-free stretch back into Norwich
Cyclist Tip: While this is the longest day, the terrain is generally forgiving with only gentle inclines – pace yourself and enjoy the varied scenery.
Celebration: Norwich
Complete your loop back in Norwich, where you can celebrate your achievement at one of the city’s excellent restaurants or breweries. The Belgian Monk offers over 100 Belgian beers – perfect for toasting your achievement.
Where to Stay: The Assembly House provides luxury accommodation in the heart of Norwich. Their “Cyclist’s Recovery Package” includes secure bike storage, spa access, and their famous afternoon tea – the perfect reward for completing your Rebellion Way adventure.
Treat yourself at The Assembly House
Planning Your Rebellion Way Adventure
When to go
The Rebellion Way can be enjoyed from March through October, but May and September offer ideal conditions with moderate temperatures, lower rainfall, and quieter roads.
Bike recommendations
A gravel bike or touring bike is ideal for the mixed terrain. While predominantly on paved roads, some sections utilize compacted gravel paths, particularly on the former railway sections.
Packing essentials
- Waterproof gear (it’s still Norfolk!)
- Spare inner tubes and basic repair kit
- Phone mount for navigation
- Power bank for longer days
Navigation
The route is partially signposted but using a GPS device is recommended. Download the GPX files for each day from Cycling UK’s official Rebellion Way page.
Ready to take on The Rebellion Way?
This 232-mile adventure showcases the best of Norfolk – from vibrant cities to peaceful countryside, royal estates to stunning coastline. With carefully selected cyclist-friendly accommodation at each stop, you can focus on enjoying the ride while we take care of the rest.
Book Your Rebellion Way Package
Our exclusive package includes accommodation at all stops with secure bike storage, luggage transfers between hotels, detailed route maps, and 24/7 support. Experience Norfolk’s ultimate cycling adventure with The Klub.
Have you completed the Rebellion Way or planning to tackle it soon? Share your experiences in the comments below!
