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Island of Secrets Walk

Join us on a walk past the usual 'no entry' signs into the heart of the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment area and learn about these fascinating buildings.

  • Booking essential

Step beyond the usual ‘no access’ sign and take a walk through the former Atomic Weapons Research Area to learn more about the Top-Secret work that was carried out on Orford Ness. Access to the interior of the buildings is no longer possible, but this guided walk brings you as close to these fascinating buildings as possible.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

Ticket typeTicket category
All Member£20.00
All Non-member£29.50

The basics

Booking details

Call 0344 249 1895

Suitability

Not suitable for children

Meeting point

Meet at 9.15am at the National Trust Ticket Office on Orford Quay for a brief introduction followed by transfer by ferry to the Ness.

What to bring and wear

Orford Ness is an exposed coastal location - please dress for the weather. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Accessibility

Involves ferry crossing - must be able to negotiate steep and sometimes slippery steps. Mostly made up of paths with some uneven terrain. The walk itself is around three miles long - longer if you choose to stay on the Ness and explore.

Upcoming events

Event

HighTide's Ness: An Audio Landscape 

Step off the boat at Orford Ness, put on your headphones, wander through a world of sound. Adapted from the prose poem by Rob Macfarlane & Stanley Donwood Ness speaks gull, speaks wave, speaks bracken & lapwing, speaks bullet, ruin, gale, deception.

Event summary

on
10 Aug to 26 Oct 2025
at
10:00 to 17:00
+ 32 other dates or times
Event

Snap Skool - Capturing the Ness 

Do you love exploring? Do you love nature and being creative? Why not become a visual detective and explore the beauty, diversity and history of Orford Ness through the camera's lens. Join us on our half day practical photography workshop.

Event summary

on
12 Aug to 28 Oct 2025
at
10:30 to 14:30
+ 2 other dates or times
Event

Young Ranger Day 

Aged 5-12? Want to get up close to the nature that calls Orford Ness home? Then come along to our Young Ranger event and learn how our rangers care for this amazing place.

Event summary

on
13 Aug to 27 Aug 2025
at
10:00 to 14:00
+ 2 other dates or times
Event

Walking And Painting The Landscape 

Have you ever thought of drawing on a daily basis? Join artists Simon Carter and Susan Barnet on a walk to inspire you to do just that.

Event summary

on
21 Aug 2025
at
10:00 to 16:00