Travellers’ tales: Boudicca’s backyard by bike

CYCLE130_TRAV TALES_Rebellion Way - Neil Scarse_Rebellion Way - Neil Scarse_IMG-20250731-WA0009.jpg
When Cycling UK members Neil and Andy rode Norfolk’s Rebellion Way, they encountered beautiful landscapes along the way – as well as something that wasn’t in the guidebook!

Where: Norfolk
Who: Neil Scarse & Andy Foulds
When: Summer 2025

Andy and I are cycling buddies who do occasional trips away. Autumn 2024 was Mallorca, and last summer we tackled the Cantii Way. Having enjoyed it immensely, we were planning where to go next within days. Andy suggested Rebellion Way.

We started in Thetford, that being the closest point to London where we both live. By mid-morning we were on our bikes, aiming to do the route in five days – three full days and two shorter ones.

We took a detour on day three to visit Andy’s ‘ancestral seat’ and to take a ride on the North Norfolk (heritage) Railway. Other than that we stuck to the route. And what a route!

Parts of it were a bit tricky on fully loaded road bikes with 28mm tyres, and it took a 5-litre bottle of water to clean the sand out of the drivetrains after one section. But it was fascinating and beautiful in equal measure.

As well as the sights, it’s often the chance encounters that make a tour memorable. Cycling right through the middle of an illegal rave in the woods en route from Diss to Thetford certainly wasn’t in the guidebook!

A big shout out to Cycling UK for another great route. We’re already thinking about Royal Chilterns Way.

Cycle magazine

Every two months Cycling UK members receive Cycle magazine, filled with interesting and informative articles, news and reviews for all cyclists.

Members can read the magazine in full online; non-members can read selected highlights.

Want more routes?

Cycling UK has a series of stunning long-distance leisure routes across Britain. But it’s only with your support that we can create more. You can help us develop more routes so you and generations to come can explore our spectacular landscapes by cycle by making a donation.

Donate today