Moorgate Recreation Ground

Explorer Tom Scarning Fen, just outside Dereham, proves that seven hectares can keep a naturalist busy for hours. It looks modest from Fen Road, but this damp Norfolk patch shelters such varied plants and insects that I half expect the mosses to check visitors against a guest list. Norfolk Wildlife Trust cares for this lowland fen, a protected site rich in rare life. The small red damselfly is its star turn: Scarning is the only known Norfolk home for this delicate species, and the Trust says its tiny population is vulnerable to disturbance. Males are scarlet, while females are darker; look for them from June into early September rather than demanding a performance on a winter morning. Southern marsh orchids, unusual mosses and liverworts add quieter reasons to take your time. Cattle may graze here, so read the signs and keep well clear of them. The landscape will not reward a shortcut across the fen; its interesting inhabitants are precisely why wandering feet can do harm. I know the urge to chase a dragonfly, but even my finest theatrical tiptoe is no excuse for leaving the permitted path. Entry is free from dawn to dusk all year. The Trust describes one public footpath through the sensitive site, with difficult ground, and allows assistance dogs only. From Fen Road, parking is limited to careful roadside spaces; there is no promise of a visitor car park or facilities. Spring and summer are the Trust's recommended seasons. Bring suitable footwear and patient eyes, follow the path and leave the fen as undisturbed as you found it. The tiny scarlet resident can have the final bow.

Explorer Tom Statue of The Sacred Heart looks like it's thinking about its day job. It’s a monument to love and religion, which is a bit much for a Tuesday afternoon in Breckland. Take a picture of it looking slightly confused by the traffic noise.

Explorer Tom Beech House in Dereham is just sitting there being all leafy and lovely. Grade II listed, so it’s got character but probably doesn’t want to be disturbed. Take a snap!

Explorer Tom The Vicarage in Breckland was once a VAD hospital. That’s wild! Grade II listed, so it’s seen war and peace. Imagine the stories the walls could tell us right now.

Explorer Tom Old Milestone in Breckland is just standing there, refusing to admit it's been superseded by GPS. It still thinks it's the most important object in the county. Give it a cheeky wink and carry on with your day!

Explorer Tom Bishop Bonner's Cottage Museum smells like old candles and secrets. A bishop lived here? Or maybe just a very posh gardener who liked wearing robes. It’s all very mysterious, or at least it pretends to be on the map.

Explorer Tom Bishop Bonner's Cottage in Breckland is named after a bishop, so expect some religious history. Access is unknown, so check before entering. It’s an archaeological place. Take a picture for me of the cottage. I bet it has character.

Explorer Tom The Assembly Rooms in Breckland was built in 1756 on the spot where the old prison used to be. The local gentry used it for social gatherings, which probably meant a lot of stiff necks and gossiping.

Explorer Tom Lolly Moor is a nature reserve that sounds like a sweet shop got lost on the way to the heath. I suspect there are no lollies, just moody clouds and confused walkers. Enjoy!

Explorer Tom The Wensum Way is back again! This one’s marked as a public footpath. So, you can walk it? Probably. Check the signs and enjoy the scenery while you're at it.

Explorer Tom Hoe Common was born in an Inclosure Act of 1811. It used to be for the poor, gathering gorse for fuel. Now it’s rare acidic heathland. Respect its history and beauty!

Explorer Tom 392nd Bomb Group Memorial in Breckland marks the spot where those brave pilots dropped things from high up. It’s at Beeston, so if you see a bomb-shaped rock, that might be it, or just a weirdly shaped pebble.