Fancy exploring the Bury to Clare Walk but not sure of the way? Then come with me and we’ll explore this waymarked trail together as we set out from Nowton Park through rural Suffolk to Clare.
The Bury to Clare Walk explores an incredibly rural area south west of Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk. The 19 mile long trail ventures through several tiny villages and hamlets surrounded by agricultural land to reach the historic market town of Clare. With countless listed building in the town, the large Norman Motte and Bailey Castle is the most impressive as it stands like a sentinel over the narrow streets and timber framed houses.
We will likely stop for a packed lunch break at Somerton. Please note there are NO shops or places to obtain refreshments on this walk. All food and drink must be carried from the start.
Distance: 31km (19 Miles)
Duration: 8 - 10 Hours
Pay and Display Car Park at Nowton Park (Open 8am - 9pm) - £3 All Day
Pay and Display Car Park at Clare Country Park (Open All Day) - £5 All Day
Meeting Point: At the Café in Nowton Park (Next to Car Park)
Additional Notes: There are no places on route for drinks or food. Please purchase these before the walk at Bury St Edmunds or bring your own. Minimum of 2 - 3 Litres of water due to the distance. I will be leaving a car in Clare near the end of the walk and am able to offer free transport back to Nowton Park if pre-arranged for a maximum of 4 passengers. Please contact me after booking via the contact page. The only alternative to this is to arrange a Taxi back to Nowton Park.
Please take note of the distance of this walk at 19 Miles long. Although on easy terrain its the distance that can make this walk feel tough. We will take several breaks throughout the day and a 20 minute lunch stop at the half way point. Most fit walkers will manage the distance but those who do not walk regularly may struggle and there are minimal opportunities to withdraw (Brockley approx. 1/3 of the way through has a bus stop which can take walkers back to Bury St Edmunds but only stops 3 times a day!).
Recommended Kit to bring with you (can change through the seasons)
Please aim to bring the following:
• Waterproof Walking Shoes or Boots (In summer conditions trainers may be suitable but are usually not waterproof)
• Waterproof Trousers and Jacket
• Water Bottle or Hydration Bladder (Minimum of 2.0ltr of drink)
• Light snacks / Lunch (Sandwich, Crisps, Chocolate Bar, Cereal Bars etc.)
• Small Rucksack (for a short day walk, 20l is usually large enough)
• Additional warm layers (e.g. fleece or insulating jacket - even in summer it can get a bit cold!)
• Sun Hat or Cap, Sun Screen and Sunglasses (Factor 30 or above recommended)
• Mobile Phone (For emergency contact)
• Camera! (to take lots of photos)
Optional:
• Warm Gloves and Hat
• Walking Poles (if you feel they will benefit you on the walk. Longer distances they are recommended).
• Dry Bag (this is just to keep phone, keys, wallet etc. dry and safe).
• Sit Mat (really adds some comfort when sitting down for lunch)
• Flask of Tea or Coffee
I will provide the following on the walk:
• Map and Compass
• First Aid Kit
• Emergency Shelter
• Head Torch
• Small Repair Kit