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Suffolk

Dunwich Heath pink trail

A woman walking through the heather at Dunwich Heath, with the heather in bloom
A woman walking through the heather at Dunwich Heath | © Justin Minns

Follow the pink trail for the best views of the heath, and best chance of spotting our main bird species here, the Dartford Warbler.

Start point

Start the trail opposite the coastguard cottages, where the holiday cottage parking is, and follow it north.

Trail information

Difficulty

Accessibility*

Full trail

DistanceMiles: 2 (km: 3.2)
Duration1 hour 60 mins
Dog friendly**
  1. *The site has mixed terrain, with some uneven slopes and exposed tree roots. Please wear appropriate footwear for the terrain. For more details see our accessibility statement.

  2. **Between 1st March and 31st August your dog is welcome on a lead. There are poo bins near the start and near the road at various locations marked on the map. The trail does open on to the road on occasion so please keep an eye on your dog when nearing the road.

Accessing Dunwich Heath

This tranquil heath stands on the Suffolk coast and is open daily for most of the year. For access to this walking trail, you will need to be a National Trust member or pay the car park fee.

  • Total stages: 4

    Total stages: 4

    Start point

    Start the trail opposite the coastguard cottages, where the holiday cottage parking is, and follow it north.

    Stage 1

    Follow the trail north, ignoring any turnings off, until you reach a fork in the path. Take the left hand fork.

    Stage 2

    Follow the trail west through the woods, until you meet a crossroads. Continue straight over.

    Stage 3

    Keep following the trail west, until it curves around to the left and heads south. Follow the trail south then, as it curves around to the left again, head up the steps and continue on the trail eastward.

    Stage 4

    Keep following the trail east until you reach an open space just before Heath Barn.

    End point

    The trail finishes just before you reach Heath barn. Head around to the right of the barn for the toilets and continue beyond to the car park and coastguard cottages.

    Trail map

    The walk map for Dunwich Heath
    The walk map for Dunwich Heath | © National Trust

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Get in touch

Coastguard Cottages, Minsmere Road, Dunwich, Suffolk, IP17 3DJ

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