Discover the Beauty and Wonder of the Norfolk Broads
Delve into the unique charm of the Norfolk Broads, highlighting its scenic waterways, rich wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor exploration that inspire every visitor.
Discover the Norfolk Broads and Surrounding Areas
Just under an hour from Casa Barnette, the Norfolk Broads National Park offers a stunning network of rivers, lakes and wetlands that feel a world away from everyday life. This unique landscape is home to peaceful waterways, charming villages, and an abundance of wildlife — making it perfect for a scenic day out. Whether you’re exploring by boat, walking along the riverside, or stopping for lunch at a waterside pub, the Broads promise a slower pace and unforgettable views.
Wroxham & Hoveton
Often called the “Capital of the Broads,” Wroxham and its twin village Hoveton are the perfect starting point for exploring the waterways. Hire a day boat or take a river cruise, browse local shops, or enjoy lunch at a waterside café while watching the boats go by.
Horning
One of the Broads’ most picturesque riverside villages, Horning has a relaxed holiday feel with pubs, tearooms and shops along the water. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, a riverside meal, or a gentle boat trip past pretty thatched cottages.
Beccles
At the southern gateway to the Broads, Beccles is a lively market town with boat hire, lovely riverside walks and a great selection of shops and cafés. It’s a perfect mix of Broads adventure and small-town charm.
Ranworth
A pretty village on the edge of Malthouse Broad, Ranworth is known for its beautiful church tower with panoramic views and the Broads Wildlife Centre with boardwalk trails through reedbeds. Peaceful, scenic, and full of birdlife — ideal for nature lovers.
Reedham
Famous for its working chain ferry across the River Yare, Reedham is a pretty village with riverside pubs, cottages and plenty of Broads charm. Sit by the water with a drink and watch the boats drift past — it’s Norfolk life at its most peaceful.
Acle
Known as the “Gateway to the Broads,” Acle is a welcoming market town on the River Bure, offering easy access to boating, riverside walks, and local pubs. It’s a great starting point for exploring nearby Ranworth or Horning, with a relaxed, traditional Norfolk feel.
Loddon & Chedgrave
Set along the River Chet, Loddon and Chedgrave are charming twin villages on the southern Broads. Enjoy a riverside walk, hire a small boat, or stop for lunch at The Swan Inn overlooking the water.
Stalham
A peaceful small town at the northern end of the Broads, Stalham is home to the Museum of the Broads, where you can discover the history and wildlife of the waterways. Boat hire is available nearby, and the surrounding area is perfect for birdwatching and gentle countryside drives.
Explore the Norfolk Broads
Things to Do on the Norfolk Broads
- Hire a Day Boat or Canoe – Drift along calm waterways at your own pace, spotting wildlife and enjoying the peace and quiet. Day boat hire is available at places like Wroxham, Beccles and Horning.
- Wildlife Watching – Look out for herons, kingfishers, otters and rare marsh harriers. The Broads are a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
- Riverside Walks – Explore scenic walking trails at Ranworth Broad, How Hill, or Salhouse Broad, all with lovely picnic spots and viewpoints.
- Visit Pretty Broads Villages – Wander through charming riverside villages like Wroxham, Horning, and Loddon, each offering cafés, shops and that relaxed “by the water” vibe.
- Waterside Dining – Enjoy a meal or drink with a view at one of the many riverside pubs and restaurants — popular spots include The Ferry Inn at Horning and The Swan Inn at Loddon.
- Climb Ranworth Church Tower – Take in panoramic views across the Broads from this 15th-century tower — well worth the climb on a clear day!
- Guided River Cruises – Sit back and let someone else take the helm on a gentle boat trip with live commentary about the area’s history and wildlife.
Our local recommendations are shared to help you make the most of your stay and are based on local knowledge at the time of writing. We are not affiliated with any third-party businesses listed and cannot be held responsible for changes to opening times, pricing or availability.
We recommend checking directly with venues before visiting.