River Activities
Swallowdale Holiday Home is perfectly situated for a variety of river activities, offering endless opportunities to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the Norfolk Broads. Whether you’re gliding through the calm waters on a paddleboard, exploring hidden corners of the River Yare in a canoe, or casting a line for a peaceful afternoon of fishing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Boating enthusiasts can take full advantage of boating on the Broads, where every trip offers a chance to discover something new.
The river provides a serene backdrop for wildlife spotting, with herons, kingfishers, and other local species often making an appearance. For a more leisurely experience, simply relax by the water’s edge, watch the boats drift by, or paddle up to a charming riverside pub for a refreshing drink. At Swallowdale, the river isn’t just a view, it’s an invitation to adventure and relaxation in one of the UK’s most picturesque settings. Don’t forget to check Brundall tide times before heading out to ensure the best experience.
Fishing
Fishing at Swallowdale Holiday Home offers a peaceful and rewarding experience, perfect for anglers of all levels. Nestled on the banks of the River Yare in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, Swallowdale provides an ideal setting to cast your line and enjoy the tranquillity of the water. Whether you're an experienced fisherman or simply trying your hand at a new hobby, the river is home to a variety of species, including bream, roach, pike, and perch. The quiet, scenic surroundings enhance the experience, making it as much about relaxation as the thrill of the catch.
The convenience of fishing right from the property means you can start your day early or enjoy a leisurely afternoon session whenever it suits you. With Swallowdale’s riverside location, you don’t need to travel far to find your perfect spot. After a day spent enjoying this timeless pastime, you can retreat to the comfort of your cosy lodge to unwind and reflect on your time by the water. Whether fishing for sport or simply soaking up the peaceful ambience, Swallowdale offers a memorable escape for anyone looking to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the Norfolk Broads.
Just be mindful of river safety and follow guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Fishing Rod Licence
If you're planning to fish on the Norfolk Broads, it's important to know that a valid fishing rod licence is required for anyone aged 13 or over. Children aged 13 to 16 need a licence but it's free.
This licence is issued by the Environment Agency and allows you to legally fish in rivers, lakes, and other freshwater bodies across England, including the Broads.
You can purchase a fishing rod licence online through the official Government website. Licences are available for short-term (1 or 8 days) or annual use, depending on the length of your stay. Remember, having a rod licence helps protect fish stocks and supports waterway conservation efforts.
Boating On The Broads
Boating on the Broads is a truly unforgettable experience, offering a unique way to explore one of the UK's most beautiful and tranquil landscapes. With over 125 miles of waterways, the Norfolk Broads are perfect for leisurely boat trips, whether you’re piloting a traditional dayboat, a motor cruiser, or a small dinghy. The calm, meandering rivers provide the perfect setting to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, with lush wetlands, peaceful reeds, and diverse wildlife around every bend. Boating here is not just about the journey, it’s about taking in the sights, sounds, and peaceful atmosphere that makes the Broads a truly special destination.
Boating on the Broads waterways is easy, with well-marked routes and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore charming villages, riverside pubs, and scenic spots along the way. Whether you're enjoying a relaxing day on the water, fishing from the boat, or visiting one of the many nature reserves, boating on the Broads is an experience like no other. With careful planning and respect for the waterways, you can create lasting memories while discovering the stunning beauty of the Norfolk Broads from the comfort of your boat.
Boat Hire
Just a short walk from Swallowdale Holiday Home, you’ll discover Broom Boat Hire, the perfect place to rent a dayboat and explore the stunning Norfolk Broads. Whether you're a seasoned boater or trying it for the first time, hiring a dayboat allows you to navigate the tranquil waterways at your leisure, taking in the beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. Conveniently located next to the White Heron Pub, you can enjoy a relaxing meal or drink by the river before or after your boating adventure, making it an ideal addition to your stay at Swallowdale.
Broads tolls apply to all boats on the Broads but hire boats already include the toll.
Electric Boats
If you're hiring an electric dayboat, please keep in mind that we do not allow charging from our holiday cottage.
Canoes and Kayaks
Bring your canoe or kayak to Swallowdale Holiday Home and make the most of its prime location along the picturesque River Yare. With direct access to the tranquil waterways of the Norfolk Broads, Swallowdale is the ideal spot to launch your canoe and embark on a personalised adventure. Paddle at your own pace, exploring the stunning natural surroundings, meandering through quiet backwaters, and uncovering the hidden gems of this iconic landscape. Whether you’re an early riser looking to greet the day on the calm waters or prefer a sunset paddle to unwind, having your own canoe or kayak means your adventure is on your schedule.
The River Yare offers countless opportunities for exploration, from spotting the rich local wildlife to visiting quaint riverside pubs for a meal or a refreshing drink. With the convenience of staying at Swallowdale, you can easily spend your day canoeing and return to the comfort of your cosy waterside lodge. The private access and peaceful setting make it easy to store and launch your canoe or kayak, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquillity, bringing your canoe to Swallowdale lets you fully embrace the beauty and charm of the Norfolk Broads.
Paddleboarding
Bring your paddleboard to Swallowdale Holiday Home and experience the Norfolk Broads from an entirely new perspective. Paddleboarding along the River Yare offers a unique way to explore the calm waterways, giving you the freedom to drift through serene landscapes while standing tall amidst the stunning natural beauty. The area’s gentle river currents and quiet stretches are ideal for paddleboarders, whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying the sport for the first time. From early morning paddles with mist rising off the water to leisurely afternoons under the sun, every outing is a chance to soak in the peace and charm of this iconic destination.
Swallowdale’s riverside location makes it effortless to launch your paddleboard and dive straight into your adventure. Unlike canoes, paddleboards allow for greater flexibility to navigate narrow inlets, observe wildlife up close, or simply enjoy the calming sensation of standing atop the water. After an invigorating day on the river, you can conveniently store your board back at the lodge and relax in comfort. Whether you're paddling for exercise, adventure, or pure relaxation, bringing your own paddleboard to Swallowdale guarantees a memorable and personalised way to enjoy the timeless beauty of the Norfolk Broads.
As with other river activities, planning your outing around Brundall tide times can significantly enhance your experience.
Bringing Your Own Boat, Canoe, kayak, Paddleboard
Bringing your own boat, canoe, kayak or paddleboard to Swallowdale Holiday Home allows you to fully embrace the beauty of the Norfolk Broads at your own pace. Swallowdale offers free mooring, so you can easily dock your boat right by the holiday lodge and enjoy the convenience of having it nearby throughout your stay.
For those with canoes, kayaks or paddleboards, there's plenty of space on the decking to store them safely, making it easy to access your gear whenever you're ready to launch. This peaceful riverside location ensures that you're always just moments away from exploring the tranquil waters of the River Yare.
If you're bringing a boat, launching is simple with Tingdene’s nearby boat launch facility just down the road. This convenient spot allows for easy access to the water, ensuring you can head out on the Broads without any hassle.
River Safety
Whether cruising on a boat, paddleboarding, kayaking, or fishing, knowing how to stay safe on the water is essential. Always wear a life jacket when on or near the water, especially for children and non-swimmers. Life jackets are your first line of defence in case of accidents or unexpected falls overboard. Additionally, it’s crucial to be aware of weather conditions, as sudden changes can create strong winds or heavy rain, which may pose risks to smaller vessels.
When navigating the waterways, stick to the speed limits and remain vigilant to avoid collisions with other boats or wildlife. Ensure that your vessel is equipped with safety gear such as a first aid kit, torch, and communication devices. Be mindful of tides and currents, particularly in tidal sections like Breydon Water, where conditions can change rapidly. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while on the water, as it can impair judgment and reaction times. If you're unfamiliar with the area, consult navigation maps and follow guidance from local authorities to avoid hazards like shallow waters, hidden obstacles, or mooring restrictions.
Ultimately, a bit of preparation and vigilance can make all the difference, helping you fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Norfolk Broads while staying safe.
Broads Tolls
If you plan to use any vessel, including canoes, kayaks, dinghies, or paddleboards, within the Broads Authority’s navigation area, it’s important to know that Broads tolls are required. These tolls help maintain and protect the beautiful waterways of the Norfolk Broads, ensuring they remain accessible for all to enjoy.
You can easily find the relevant toll information on the Broads Authority Website.
If hiring a vessel the Broads tolls charge is normally included in the hire price. Please check when hiring.
Brundall Tide Times
At Swallowdale Holiday Home, the tides of the River Yare play an important role in your river-based activities. Understanding the tide schedule can enhance your experience, whether boating, paddleboarding, or fishing. Checking the tide times will help you plan your activities for the best conditions, ensuring you maximise your time. Brundall tide times can be checked here.
Please note that tides at Swallowdale can vary considerably. Although we have steps going down into the river please make sure you check tide levels before your journey on the river.
