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Ipswich & District Group

We are the Ipswich and District Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.

Get in touch about this walk

Stuart Anthony Beauchamp

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Overview

A circular walk starting in the town centre, continuing through the Abbey grounds to reach Nowton Park, and then Hardwick Heath, before returning through the town to the start point. Although part urban, the walk uses green spaces so far as possible with the hope that the daffodils will be in bloom in Nowton Park. There are toilets at the start, and a cafe and toilets within the park, together with toilets on Hardwick Heath. There is a mixture of traditional footpaths, urban pavements, and open space within the park and heathland. There is some road walking on quiet country lanes between the park and the heath. It is the intention to have a refreshment break in Nowton Park, with the possibility of a further short stop on Hardwick Heath.

Sunday, 16 March 2025
Start time:
10:00 am
Estimated finish time:
1:00 pm
Difficulty:
Leisurely
Distance:
10.5km / 6.5mi
Ascent:
N/A
Type:
circular

The start point, within the town, necessitates the crossing of roads, and time will be allowed to make sure that the group keeps together on what is intended to be a leisurely walk with the opportunity for those unfamiliar with the town to see the Abbey (from the outside), and visit Nowton Park and Hardwick Heath. The walk can be muddy in places in wet weather so don't assume that this is an 'urban' walk with no requirement for sturdy footwear or 'walking' clothing.

Features

  • Refreshments available (Pub/cafe)
  • Toilets available
  • Car parking available
  • No Stiles

Starting point

Grid reference:
TL 85777 64560
Nearest postcode:
IP33 1XT
what3words:
bugs.diverts.vowed
Start time:
10:00 am

Ram Meadow car Park, Cotton Lane, Bury St. Edmunds. Pay and Display car park. Machines accept cash or RingGo app (£3.20 all day at the time of recce). Meet next to the toilets at the entrance.

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking