Hickling Broad and Marshes, the largest of the Norfolk Broads, is a must-visit for nature lovers staying nearby. This unspoilt reserve is home to some of Britain’s rarest wildlife, including the iconic swallowtail butterfly, elusive bittern, and majestic common crane. Its landscapes of reedbeds, woodland, open water, and fenland provide year-round beauty, with walking trails and guided boat trips revealing hidden corners.

Spring brings booming bitterns, cuckoos, and marsh harriers tumbling in bright skies, while summer dazzles with swallowtails, Norfolk hawker dragonflies, and vibrant fen flowers. Autumn draws migrating waders and rare bird visitors, while winter offers spectacular scenes of wildfowl flocks, ‘pinging’ bearded tits, and dramatic raptor roosts at Stubb Mill. With panoramic viewing points, seasonal wildlife spectacles, and the charm of traditional reed cutting, Hickling offers a truly authentic Broadland experience - perfect for walkers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a peaceful, wildlife-rich escape in the heart of the Norfolk Broads.

Ranworth is a hidden gem on the edge of Malthouse Broad, perfect for slowing down and soaking up Norfolk’s charm. Moor at the staithe, spread a picnic on the lawn, and watch the world drift by. Follow the boardwalk through reed beds to Ranworth Broad’s floating conservation centre, where otters, kingfishers, and summer ospreys make regular appearances.

No visit is complete without St Helen’s Church – the “Cathedral of the Broads.” Climb 89 steps for panoramic views across five broads and almost 200 landmarks. Inside, discover a stunning medieval rood screen and a 15th-century prayer manuscript. Wrap up at the cosy tea room and gallery, the perfect spot to relax after a day exploring this scenic, serene village.

Anyone who loves being out on the water will be delighted to hear that the Norfolk Broads are a boating paradise, offering endless ways to explore their tranquil waterways. A boating holiday lets you set your own pace, whether you choose a classic sailing boat or a comfortable motor cruiser, drifting past reedbeds, windmills, and charming waterside villages.

For a more laid-back option, river cruises with Broads Tours provide stunning scenery and fantastic wildlife-spotting opportunities, from herons to kingfishers. If you prefer independence, hire a day boat or picnic launch for a relaxed self-guided adventure. Those seeking a more active experience can paddle by canoe or try traditional rowing, getting closer to the Broads’ peaceful backwaters.

Many visitors also enjoy mooring at Norfolk Broads Direct boatyard to explore local shops, including the famous Roys of Wroxham. Whatever your style, boating here offers beauty, freedom, and unforgettable memories.

Whilst the Norfolk Broads may be inland, you’re never far from some of the most breathtaking beaches on the Norfolk coast. Holkham is pure cinematic splendour, with endless golden sands, backed by whispering pinewoods and rolling dunes, perfect for long barefoot walks. Just along the shore, Wells-next-the-Sea brings buckets of charm with its pastel-painted beach huts, shallow waters, and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. Cromer, with its retro pier, fresh crab shacks and big, open skies, is a classic seaside escape with a touch of old-school cool.

For something quieter, head to Sea Palling, a dreamy little stretch with soft sands, sheltered swimming and hardly another soul in sight. Whether you’re chasing sunrise strolls, paddle-in-the-waves afternoons, or ice-cream-and-crab-roll evenings, these beaches are the perfect coastal counterpoint to the Broads’ tranquil waterways.

If you want to enjoy a slice of pure nostalgia then be sure to visit The Bure Valley Railway. This is Norfolk’s longest narrow-gauge line, puffing its way between the historic market town of Aylsham and lively Wroxham. This isn’t just a train ride, it’s an 18-mile round trip through storybook scenery: meadows that roll into the distance, ancient pastures dotted with grazing cattle, and the lazy curves of the River Bure glinting in the sunlight.

You can simply sit back and let the steam swirl past the window, or hop off at picture-perfect halts like Brampton, Buxton, and Coltishall to explore their village greens, cosy pubs, and riverside paths. It’s all wonderfully unhurried, offering you and your loved ones a chance to swap car parks and traffic for the gentle rhythm of the rails.

The Norfolk Broads are sprinkled with villages that feel straight out of a storybook. Wroxham, known as the “capital of the Broads,” is full of energy and charm, with a bustling high street, independent shops, and cosy cafés perfect for people-watching over coffee. There’s a sense of riverside liveliness here without ever feeling rushed, making it a great spot to wander and soak up the local buzz.

A short hop away, Horning offers a slower, more intimate pace. Quaint cottages line quiet streets, and village life revolves around welcoming pubs, charming shops, and restaurants like The Staithe and Willow, where seasonal menus meet riverside views. The village has a serene, timeless quality, ideal for lingering over a meal or strolling at your own pace.

Other delightful villages to explore in the area include Coltishall, Brundall, Ludham, Ranworth, and Reedham, each offering its own unique slice of Broadland charm.

Wroxham Barns is the kind of place that makes you want to linger all day. Part charming country escape, part creative hub, it’s packed with experiences that somehow appeal to everyone – whether you’re after some fun animal interactions, a relaxed wander through independent shops, or simply a spot to sit and soak up the atmosphere. The Junior Farm & Fun Park is perfect for families, with plenty of space to play and meet some furry friends, while the Courtyard Café is ideal for a pitstop, a coffee, or a pre-booked afternoon tea.

For those who love discovering unique finds, the craft studios and boutiques are a real treat. You can meet local makers, pick up one-of-a-kind gifts, or just enjoy browsing beautifully curated items. And with seasonal events popping up throughout the year, there’s always something new to experience, making Wroxham Barns feel lively, welcoming, and endlessly charming.