Norfolk Broads
Norfolk Broads
The Norfolk Broads are a stunning area of natural beauty covering an area of over 300 square kilometres. The Broads are a unique network of rivers, lakes, and wetlands and a popular destination for boating and sailing enthusiasts, offering miles of navigable waterways, picturesque villages, and breathtaking scenery. The area is also a haven for wildlife, birds, mammals, and fish, making their home in the reed beds and marshes. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, including fishing, birdwatching, hiking, or relaxing and taking in the tranquil surroundings. The Norfolk Broads are a true gem of England, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone who visits.
Where Are The Norfolk Broads
The Norfolk Broads are a network of rivers and lakes located in the eastern part of England, primarily in the county of Norfolk, but also extending into parts of Suffolk.
The Beautiful Norfolk Broads
Norfolk is home to the iconic and possibly most famous man-made Norfolk Broads. The Norfolk Broads National Park in the United Kingdom has over 125 miles of beautiful, navigable waterways surrounded by charming countryside. This area is a picturesque part of the UK.
The unique history of this iconic National Park offers its visitors unforgettable views and an abundance of calming landscapes, rivers and lakes. It may not be one of the largest National Parks, but it is home to over a quarter of Britain’s rarest wildlife.
History Of The Norfolk Broads
Although the waterways are not natural, they are still a beautiful sight to behold. The lakes and waterways are shallow, navigable and very popular for budding boaters. The Broads started as pits for peat to provide fuel for the local families. The digging occurred up to the 14th Century in the east Norfolk settlements. Gradually, as the water levels rose, these large holes began to flood. Due to frequent flooding, it was impossible to continue the peat extraction. These flooded holes are now the famous waterways that many visitors enjoy today.
It is now home to over 6,000 residents and visited by more than 7.5 million visitors annually. This area, without a doubt, can be considered one of the most popular UK tourist destinations.
Things To Do On The Norfolk Broads
The impressive Norfolk Broads is the perfect setting for relaxation and adventure. Visitors can explore, reflect and experience the magic of this unique, picturesque National Park. The best way that sightseers can discover the beauty of the Broads is undoubtedly by boat, as there are many parts of the Broads that cars cannot reach. However, this is not a bad thing. Exploring the Broads by boat will help visitors discover the perfect fishing spots, spot the rare wildlife, and enjoy many hidden places.
There is no shortage of natural beauty and wildlife on the Broads. Some of the rare species found are the Norfolk Hawker Dragonfly, Otters, Teal, Shrews, Herons, in addition to many stunning wild birds. The Broads is perfect for any visitor, whether you want to explore historic villages, and nature or enjoy a delightful pub or restaurant in the countryside. Whether you are strolling down the waterways or stopping at a family-friendly pub, most of which are dog-friendly. Visitors enjoy the English country's fresh air, sparkling waters, and beautiful landscapes. When you visit the Norfolk Broads, an unforgettable experience is guaranteed.
Check out our Swallowdale blog page for more things to do.
Visiting Swallowdale In The Winter Months
Many of us are now searching for short breaks in Norfolk Broads cottages to help us deal with the cold British winters. With autumn nearly over, there's nothing better than planning a short winter break in a riverside lodge. The Norfolk Broads in winter are one of the ideal locations to visit at this time of year, the Broads National Park takes on its winter coat, and the scenery changes completely. If you need peace, quiet and idyllic surroundings, then the Norfolk Broads is the perfect location, to visit. Many self-catering holiday homes are available all year, including Swallowdale Holiday Home in Brundall.
If you’re planning a holiday to Swallowdale during the winter months, you have exclusive access to stunning, relaxing surroundings. Though the broads are much quieter, there is no shortage of wildlife. In winter you can fully enjoy the tranquil surroundings, but there is still plenty to do during the winter season. Such as:
• Bird Spotting – catch a glimpse of some of the migrating birds
• Relaxing winter walks on the sandy beaches
• Visit the Horsey Gap Seals and their pups
• Walk the broads
• Visit the Christmas Markets (in Norfolk)
• Book a Christmas Santa Ride on the railways
Have A Magical Boating Experience On The Winter Waterways
The once-filled waterways of boats and buzzing tourists are now a soothing winter wilderness. The peacefulness of the water, and the crisp, clean air are the best time to spot wildlife. Why not hire a day boat at one of the many Norfolk Broads boat hire yards, take advantage of the quiet waters and explore the surroundings with nearly no interruption? The Norfolk Broads are well known and a popular destination for budding boaters during the summer months, but are just as beautiful if not better in the late autumn and winter months.
Experience The Picturesque Winter Landscape
It's hard to put into words how beautiful the Norfolk Broads are during the autumn and winter months. And, for those seeking peace and relaxation and want to leave feeling wholly revitalised then this is the perfect location for a self-catering winter break.
Are The Norfolk Broads Worth Visiting?
With so much to offer such as fishing, wildlife, beaches, attractions, water sports, and much more, the Norfolk Broads is worth a visit.
From Swallowdale Holiday Home - By Road
Town
Miles
Minutes
Cantley
6
13
Salhouse
6
13
Acle
8
14
South Walsham
8
15
Wroxham
8
19
Reedham
8
21
Norwich
9
20
Hoveton
9
20
Stokesby
10
17
Horning
13
26
Loddon
13
26
Potter Heigham
15
26
Ludham
16
26
Caister On Sea
16
27
Great Yarmouth
16
27
Hemsby
16
27
Stalham
19
30
Burgh Castle
19
32
Sea Palling
20
36
Beccles
22
34
St Olaves
23
34
Lowestoft
25
41
Oulton Broad
26
44
Norfolk Broads Map
