Rebellion Way

Follow in the chariot tracks of the trailblazing warrior queen Boudicca on this bikepacking trail around Norfolk

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Discover Norfolk’s hidden stories

Rebellion Way is a 373km/232-mile cycling adventure around Norfolk. Meandering along a mix of quiet, mostly flat back roads, byways, cycle paths and bridleways under huge panoramic skies, it’s a fantastic introduction to multi-day, on- and off-road adventuring for anyone.

What's in a name?

While Norfolk is now known for its relaxed, timeless, pastoral charm, the cycle route’s name reflects the county’s fascinatingly turbulent history from the Iron Age onwards, commemorating two iconic rebellions led by warrior queen Boudicca and Norfolk landowner Robert Kett.

Boudicca has been a famous cultural symbol since she led a revolt against Roman rule almost 2,000 years ago. Heading out of Norwich, Rebellion Way passes by Venta Icenorum, the capital of Boudicca’s Iceni tribe, where you can see remains of the settlement to this day. The route also takes in sections of Boudicca Way, where it is accessible by cycle.

On the return leg, the route passes Kett’s Heights, a key location in Kett’s Rebellion. This was a revolt in Norfolk in response to land enclosure. Beginning in Wymondham in July 1549, rebels began to destroy fences placed by wealthy landowners.

The group targeted Robert Kett who, instead of fighting the rebels, joined their cause and offered to lead them. The rebellion grew to number 10,000 people who marched on Norwich, later storming and taking the city.

Rebellion Way routes

Rebellion Way: map and GPX file

232 mi / 372 km
Rebellion Way is a 373km/232-mile cycling adventure around Norfolk. Meandering along a mix of quiet, mostly flat back roads, byways, cycle paths and bridleways under huge panoramic skies, it’s a fantastic introduction to multi-day, on- and off-road adventuring for anyone … read more

Rebellion Way: trike and trailer alternative route

232 mi / 373 km
Cycling UK has worked with Experience Community to test ride the Rebellion Way route with a handcycle and a trailer, to identify the barriers and challenges and look for possible ways to overcome them. … read more

Rebellion Way route guide

The comprehensive route guide is written by archeologist-turned-MTB-writer Guy Kesteven, and will open your eyes to the rich history and stories of the landscapes you’ll journey through.

The guide also includes practical advice and suggested itineraries to help you plan your trip, and detailed maps showing optional detours to make the most of your ride.

Buy the route guide

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Experience more of Norfolk by bike

Norfolk is sometimes overlooked as a choice for a cycling trip, but once you start exploring, this big-sky county is full of surprises.

A spin along the tranquil lanes reveals quaint timeless villages, peaceful wildlife havens and buckets of quirky charm, from prehistoric mammoths to steam railways.

You’ll find medieval churches full of original carvings and paintings, or ancient barns that are now bat sanctuaries. Glide through the gently rolling, minimal traffic ‘Quiet Lanes’, follow singletrack paths through timeless woods, stop to watch swans on secret inland lakes, or ride alongside deer in the evening sun.

As part of the European Regional Development Fund EXPERIENCE project, Cycling UK developed and promoted routes starting from several locations across Norfolk which showcase the varied riding in the area.

Donate or become a member to help open up new inspirational cycling routes

Developing new off-road routes like Rebellion Way is only possible thanks to the generosity of our members and supporters. By signing up for membership or donating, you help us bring new routes to you, increase transport choice for people, boost the number and diversity of people cycling, and campaign to make cycling an even more positive experience.

Together, we can make a cycle friendly future.