Norfolk Broads
Britain's largest protected wetland is a watery paradise for wildlife and people alike. Its reed beds, grazing marshes and woodlands provide a haven for an array of mammals, birds and insects, while its long winding rivers and vast shallow lakes are a playground for ramblers, anglers and people “simply messing about in boats”. Along the rivers are quaint towns and villages, where boaters can moor to grab a bite to eat and see the local sights. And in amongst the settlements stand old derelict windmills once used to power drainage pumps, which give a sense of the rich and long history of these waterways.
Places to go on the Norfolk Broads
Stretching some 300 sq km from Honing in the North and Norwich in the West, the Broads are one of Britain’s most important conservation areas for plants and wildlife. The Broads is one of the few places you can spy bitterns and marsh harriers, and it is also great for spotting more common kingfishers, swans, ducks and Canada geese. While the wildlife is a big draw for people, by far the biggest are the boats and all the fun you can have in and out of them. First-timers or novices can rent a modest boat for use on many of the larger broads, including Wroxham, Horning, Hickling and Oulton, while more experienced ‘captains’ can opt for a cruiser equipped with all the modern comforts of a home. If you’re looking for something more energetic, there are opportunities for sailing, canoeing, kayaking and windsurfing. Whitlingham Country Park is ideal for this. The towns and villages perched on the banks of the rivers are perfect for a break away from the waterways and to stock up on supplies.
Our Top Picks on the Norfolk Broads
We want you to enjoy the best that the Norfolk Broads has to offer and so here's a selection of our favourite things to see and do;
Museum of the Broads
Located in the market town of Stalham, the museum brings to life the history of the Broads with interactive displays, restored boats and the stories of people who sailed the waterways. Take the opportunity to peer behind the tourist industry and learn about the traditional ways of working and living that made the area what it is today. For families there is also a play boat, painting, quizzes and picnic area.
Bure Valley Railway
A great way to see the countryside is from the comfort of one of the carriages on the charming Bure Valley Railway. The steam and diesel locomotives, which look very much like characters out of the Thomas the Tank Engine, run between Aylsham and Wroxham, stopping at Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall along the way. The railway also offers a steam locomotive driver experience course for anyone who fancies having their hand on the lever.
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