Wayland Wood

Wayland Wood is for walkers who want more than blue. This quiet Norfolk Wildlife Trust reserve near Watton has been coppiced since at least the 10th century, and its spring flora proves its age: bluebells grow with wood anemones, yellow archangel, water avens and early purple orchids, plus the rare yellow star-of-Bethlehem. It is also the alleged setting of the Babes in the Wood legend. A circular footpath goes around the reserve, with glades and rides cutting through. The parking lot is small and sits on a fast road with poor visibility, so pull in carefully.