After passing the remains of North Elmham station the line becomes operational, and runs to the rear of the historic RAF Swanton Morley, before passing the hamlet of Hoe before entering Dereham. There are six public road level crossings and several bridges on this section. The section is rarely in passenger use as no stations are open to passengers, and due to the lack of signalling systems in Dereham. This section of line climbs out of the Wensum valley and enters the town of Dereham, passing two of the town's former maltings, including the Grade II* listed Crisps Malting buildings.