Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a fresh challenge, this picturesque walk is the perfect way to boost your well-being—physically and mentally. This extraordinary trail offers breath-taking views of Norfolk’s unique Pingo ponds and the man-made Thompson Water Lake. With every step, you’ll experience the calming beauty of nature whilst raising vital funds for Norfolk and Waveney Mind, your local mental health charity.

On Saturday 5th April the trail begins at 11am.

If you’d prefer to do a slightly shorter route, there is a ‘there and back’ route which goes about 2.5 miles around the trail before looping back on itself. There will be a checkpoint at this point where you can take a rest and get involved with mini challenges.

Our team from REST Thetford Community Wellbeing Hub will also be there on the day to talk about the mental health support they provide.

Upon completing the trail, you’ll be awarded a certificate from our fundraising team to thank you for helping us take a step towards better mental health for all in Norfolk and Waveney.

• Footwear - it’s important you wear the appropriate footwear with ankle support as the trail can be muddy and uneven in places.
• Accessibility - unfortunately, this route isn’t accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
• Dogs - if you plan on bringing a dog along, we ask that they are supervised at all times, especially on the Thompson common. There are parts of the trail where leads are mandatory.
• Children - If you plan to get involved as a family, please ensure all children are supervised throughout the route. Some parts of this trail may be unsuitable for young children. Loose footing and unguarded access to open water for example may present further danger. Parents/guardians are solely responsible for the safety of the their children at this event.
• Parking - there is parking available at the start/finish of the route, but there are limited spaces. We recommend lift sharing if you plan to take part as a group. The address for parking is Stow Bedon, Attleborough NR17 1DP
• General public - please note, this is not a private event. There may be members of the general public using the trail at the same time.

Who can take part?
The Pingo trail is perfect for anyone with a passion for walking. Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced hiker, we’d love to have you there!

How long will it take me?
The Pingo Trail is an 8 mile (12.9km) circular route with an average completion time of 3 hrs 30 min. We aim to have all participants back at the start point by 3pm.

How fit do I need to be?
The event has been designed to be fun and appropriate for people of all levels of fitness yet still provide a reasonable level of challenge.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes, we’d love to have dogs there! All we ask is they are kept under supervision or on a lead where the signage requires. There is dog waste bin in the car park, please do not leave dog waste throughout the trail.

How do I setup a fundraising page?
You can begin fundraising by creating a JustGiving page here. Simply click the orange "Start Fundraising" button, choose whether you're fundraising in memory of someone, and select "Just Fundraising." Next, you'll be able to set your fundraising target and personalise your page.

Will there be toilets?
Unfortunately, there are no available toilets during this walk.

What happens if I or others hurt themselves on the walk?
All participants are responsible for their own safety. If there is an incident during the walk, please inform a member of staff. If the incident is urgent then please dial 999.

What do I need to bring?
We recommend the following:

• Walking boots/shoes
• Water bottle
• Loose clothing (weather appropriate, including warm layers and waterproofs where necessary)
• Snacks
• Rucksack
• Sun cream

A route map will be provided by the fundraising team before you start the trail. As this is an area of natural beauty, we ask that you take everything with you when you leave and don’t leave any litter.

Is the route accessible?
The route is flat and easy to walk, though it may be muddy and a little uneven in places due to the wildlife. This route is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Where can I park?
There is parking at the start/finish of the route, however, spaces are limited. We recommend car sharing if you can.

If you have any questions about the Pingo Trail please contact our friendly fundraising team by emailing fundraising@norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk