
Newbourne dog walk – Riverscapes and countryside vistas
By Carl Scott
If you’re an outsider, you might not have heard of the charming Suffolk village of Newbourne. But there are many reasons to visit, including a beautiful medium-length dog walking trail.
Just a half hour’s drive from Woodfarm Barns, 15 minutes from our Twee Gebroeders barge and 30 minutes from our Onderneming barge, Newbourne is an excellent choice for a day trip with your dog. A small rural community with a population of less than 350, the village ticks all the boxes of an idyllic ‘storybook’ location, with its peaceful atmosphere, attractive houses and well-kept gardens.
Here, you’ll find an easy, circular walk which takes around an hour and a half, if walking at a steady pace. Factor in a stop or two at the irresistible pubs along the way, as well as a couple of photo opportunities, and you’re probably looking at three hours. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon, and your dog will love it!
Newbourne Village Hall – begin your dog walk
Unless the village hall is in use, you can usually find a space to park your car and begin your walk. Otherwise, the nearest car park is at The Fox Inn (more on this fantastic pub later), which is just down the road.
At this point, your dog is probably raring to go – and you’re likely excited to work up an appetite for a delicious pub lunch, too! Pop a leash on your pup and make your way past the children’s play area (try not to give in to the oddly relaxing nest swing), and head into the forest onto the boardwalk.
You’ll come to an open, grassy area. Just follow the trail where the grass has been walked over. Pass through two gates and the trail will finally start to look like a proper track. This takes you through Hemley, where you’ll see the All Saints’ parish church, which dates back to the 14th century.
Turn left before the church and walk past the beautiful country houses and cottages which sparsely line the street. At the end of the street, you’ll find a metal gate. Walk around it and continue down the tree-lined track (avoiding horse poop as you go!) past Hemley Hall and to the end of the path where you’ll see a sign for a bridleway.
Take a right at this sign to walk down a pretty lane where you’ll come to White House. Turn left and walk through the fields, once again walking into a forested area where you’ll find a lake. If your dog is inclined to swim, this is a good spot. If not, continue on the forest path towards the river bank, turning left before the boats, and follow it to The Maybush pub. You can’t miss it – there are usually customers sitting outside on the spacious terrace, especially on a sunny day.
Enjoy a meal at The Maybush
A Deben Inns pub, The Maybush oozes charm, making it a popular hotspot for people of all ages, with or without dogs. Park up outside if it’s sunny and enjoy a pint of our local brew, Adnams, and a hearty pub meal. Head inside to see the specials on the chalkboard by the bar, or pick from the well-rounded menu.
In summer, this venue in the divine riverside village of Waldringfield is bustling with locals and visitors. On the weekend, you’ll likely see families enjoying the narrow strip of sand below the pub, as well as those with boats heading out on the water for a leisurely sail. If your pup is eager to make friends, there are plenty of opportunities here, as it’s a favourite of dog owners!
Head back into the countryside
Once you’ve satisfied your stomach, walk across the terrace to the right side of the pub, and turn left. You should see a red phone box near the entrance to the car park. Follow this road for around 350 yards, admiring the surprising mix of architecture, until you reach a footpath sign on your left.
Turn left here and follow the path through the fields, eventually leading you back to Newbourne.
More Than a Walk – A Slice of Suffolk Life
There’s something about Newbourne. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t shout. It just quietly gets on with being lovely.
Let’s start with Newbourne Springs. It’s the sort of place you stumble across and wonder why you’ve never heard of it. Nature doing its thing, unbothered by people. Woodpeckers nattering in the trees, frogs hopping through the undergrowth – it’s all very David Attenborough if you squint a bit.
Wander just beyond the springs and you’ll end up at The Fox Newbourne Suffolk. Now this is a proper local. Exposed beams, ale that tastes like it ought to, and the sort of welcome that makes you forget you’re not actually from the village. Food? Cracking. The pork belly practically falls apart. The mash? Creamy enough to start a fight. You’ll get friendly service at good value, and the setting doesn’t hurt either. The location will only enhance whatever mood you’re in.
And then there’s Newbourne Village Hall – not flashy, but the heartbeat of the community. Dog show on a Sunday, WI meeting on a Tuesday, someone’s 70th birthday knees-up at the weekend. If you ever wanted a glimpse into small-village Britain, it starts here.
Pub Stops & Pitfalls to Avoid
If you’ve got time – and let’s be honest, you’re not in London anymore – detour over to Waldringfield. The Maybush Inn Waldringfield menu is the stuff of legend. They do a banging burger and their fish specials are often straight off the boats. Just be sure to book a table, especially when the sun’s out, or you’ll be left watching someone else eat yours.
Better still, download Deben Inns trail today or swing by the bar to grab your map. There’s a whole trail of these fine Suffolk boozers to explore. You can make a weekend of it, especially if you’re staying at one of the Barns.
Keep in the Loop (Or Be the One Who Misses Out)
We get it. Most mailing lists are about as welcome as a wasp in your pint. But this one? Worth it. By signing up for our email list, you’ll gain exclusive access to special offers and discounts that you won’t find anywhere else.
You’ll also be the first to hear about latest updates, new promotions, and a bit of exciting news when it drops. It’s your key to staying connected with what’s happening – and it might even mean first dibs on limited time deals, sneak previews, or the occasional heads-up that’s not shouted about anywhere else.
Think of it as the quiet nudge from someone who knows the locals.
Final Thought (Before the Dog Falls Asleep)
Some walks are about steps. This one’s about moments. Whether you’re splashing through puddles, spotting deer by the hedgerow, or sharing chips with the dog outside The Fox Newbourne Suffolk, it’s a day out that doesn’t try too hard – and still gets it just right.