Access & cycling

Train Wood itself is full of paths some of which are made up and some of which are not, due to the nature of the site and it being woodland next to the River Wensum, it is advisable to be careful in the wood itself off the main tracks; depending on the season some parts may become overgrown, and other parts might be subject to slight flooding or be very muddy. The main path is however tarrmac, and some of the routes into the wood have gravel surfaces. Care is advised.

The site of Train Wood includes the start of Marriott’s Way, part of the national cycle network running through Norwich.

The path is a 26 mile off-road route for walkers and cyclists which goes all the way to Aylsham. It is a Norfolk Trail and part of Sustrans National Cycle Way No 1 as well as being a bridleway and wheelchair accessible. In addition there are several kilometers of riverside and woodland paths, including boardwalk, in the woods.

Named after William Marriott, the chief engineer of the Midland and Great Northern Joint Railway, the path preserves railway heritage through bridges, old station buildings, and platforms. Public art installations, including sculptures from old railway parts and rails and poetic benches. A haven for wildlife, with diverse flora and fauna along the entire former trackbed. Notable stops include the Whitwell and Reepham Railway, offering a museum and tea room. Marriott’s Way also links to other trails like the Norwich Riverside Walk and is part of the National Cycle Network

Marriott’s Way is generally accessible, largely due to the flat terrain of the former railway line, making it suitable for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, including those with limited mobility. The surface is mainly unsealed compacted gravel and earth, which can lead to muddy sections in wet weather, though some parts now feature asphalt and recently improved gravelled walkways.

Norfolk County Council has continuously invested in improvements, such as widening sections and installing stair sets with handrails, plus addressing drainage issues to try to ensure an all-year-round accessibility.  There are numerous other access points along the route allowing a walk starting at Train Wood to end at various villages. Toilets are available at key locations like Norwich, Aylsham, and Whitwell & Reepham Station, with nearby villages offering shops and pubs for convenience.