by Katie Thompson
Here in Norwich, city life and the natural world are all in one place. Did you know the City of Stories is part of the Broads National Park?
This is where you’ll find luscious greenery and breathtakingly calm bodies of water beneath big skies. It’s easy to act natural when wildlife is ducking and diving just moments away.
And it’s even easier when the Broads are so accessible. From walking distance from Norwich city centre to just a bus ride or train journey away, you don’t need to rely on driving. And then once you’re in the Broads themselves, what about a boat trip?
Wherever you’re staying in our fine city, you can take the 5B bus from St Stephens Street, Castle Meadow or Prince of Wales Rd to Salhouse (in 45min), Wroxham and Horning (in 1hr), and Stalham (in 1hr 30).
Or if you’d rather take the train, then Greater Anglia routes stop at Salhouse, Hoveton & Wroxham, Worstead and Acle.
What’s a trip to The Broads without a boat trip?
When you’re staying in Norwich, The Broads is an ideal day trip, whether you’re searching for on-the-water adventure or tranquillity and relaxation. Here, you can get lost in the stunning scenery, where winding trails meander along, and uncover elusive wildlife! (For otter spotting, we suggest Barton Broad or Ranworth Marshes, both of which are accessible by boardwalk).
There’s also loads of heritage and culture- old meets now at medieval St Benet’s Abbey and the Roman ruins of Burgh Castle. And there’s a taste of traditional England with characterful villages like Horstead and Horning. And it’s a great destination to discover local produce thanks to The Broads’ many cafes, delis and breweries, especially if it means stopping for a pub lunch or waterside picnic!
Let’s start in Norwich. At the University of East Anglia broad (you can take the 25, 26 or 26A buses to get there), there’s a circular walk that’ll take you to Marston Marshes, along the River Yare, and back again. Along the way, you’ll be treated to unique and iconic art as part of the Sainsbury Centre’s Sculpture Park, while in early springtime, you can hear baby kestrels nesting nearby! (We recommend RSPB Berney Marshes and Breydon Water for more birdwatching- you’ll find them in their tens of thousands!)
On the other side of the city, is Whitlingham Country Park (a 2-mile walk from Norwich train station), which has a lovely 2-mile circular route around the lake that’s perfect for walking and cycling. Here, you can get close to the peaceful waters’ edge, easily spending a few minutes following the flight paths of various birds. If you want to try your hand at water sports, have a go at sailing, windsurfing and more at the adventure centre! And for a refreshing treat afterwards, stop at Redwell Brewery for a local beer and slice of stone-baked pizza!
Relax at Barton Broad’s waterside
Elsewhere, Coltishall (just northeast of Norwich) is great for water sports along the River Bure, such as paddleboarding and canoeing. For an idyllic spring break, why not stay at Norfolk Mead Hotel? It’s a beautiful Georgian country house (rooms from £145 a night including a sumptuous breakfast, and they have a brand-new spa) set in 8 acres of gorgeous grounds (with their own broad). From spring you can hire their 6-seater cruiser for an escape on the waterways- we highly recommend this!
Just like seeing the seals on the Norfolk Coast, what would a visit to The Broads be without a river cruise? There are loads of options to choose from, too, including wheelchair accessible trips from Hoveton and Neatishead. Don’t forget to plan in advance- booking is essential.
With the National Wildlife Trust, you can take guided boat tours at Hickling and Ranworth Broads between Easter and October that will take you into the heart of nature and explore hidden corners full of natural treasures.
Meanwhile, Wroxham (known as the ‘Capital of The Broads’) is the hub of Broads boating. You can be your own captain for the day or sit back and relax as you’re taken through these ancient waterways to Hickling Broad and beneath the medieval bridge at Potter Heigham. It’s a haven for wildlife, particularly migrating and wading birds, as well as a breeding habitat for the rare Norfolk hawker dragonfly and striking swallowtail butterfly.
The Broads’ wetlands are home to thousands of birds and wildlife
Further into the Broads National Park, you’ll be spoilt for choice for walks and cycle paths- with or without a furry friend! Whether you’re looking for a peaceful amble amid the spring-green reeds and constant hum of insects or ready for a reinvigorating walk in the fresh air, trails range from 1 mile to 3 and beyond.
At Salhouse Broad, you can walk a picturesque 3-mile route that takes you to Salhouse village, through the Norfolk countryside and around the 32-acre lake. This Broad is unusual in itself and well worth stopping off at. It’s a sandy spit and beach (perfect for a sunny picnic!) with boardwalks through woodland and fen. Before you leave, climb to the top of the hill for wonderful panoramic views!
If you want to venture into Suffolk, you can start at Waveney River Centre and head south towards Oulton Broad (a 45 – 60min walk) or follow the circular route back through Carlton Marshes, stopping for a bite of local produce once you’re done.
We know you’ll be tempted to visit The Broads again and again, so no matter who you’re visiting with there’s plenty to see and do, including the Bure Valley Railway and BeWILDerwood for children, and Fairhaven Water Gardens and Paul Dickson Tours for those who love exploring. Oh, and Wroxham Miniature Worlds for all ages!
