6k Run South Norfolk: Scenic Marriot Way to Drayton

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 5.8km out-and-back route offers a pancake-flat run perfect for those looking to maintain a steady tempo or enjoy a peaceful recovery session through the South Norfolk countryside. Starting on the quiet, tree-lined Red Bridge Lane in New Costessey, you’ll quickly join the famous Marriott’s Way. The terrain is an unpaved, well-maintained trail surface that provides a softer impact than asphalt, making it a favorite for local runners looking to save their joints. The highlight of the run is reaching the picturesque bridge over the River Wensum near Drayton, where the open views of the water provide a natural turning point before heading back.

Steeped in industrial heritage, the Marriott’s Way follows the trackbed of two former railway lines—the Great Northern and the Midland and Great Northern. As you run this segment between New Costessey and Drayton, you’re following the same path where steam trains once hauled timber and coal through the Wensum Valley. Today, the "iron road" has been reclaimed by nature, serving as a vital green corridor for wildlife. Keep an eye out for kingfishers near the river bridge or deer in the adjacent woodland, as this stretch remains one of the most tranquil escapes from the nearby Norwich bustle.