Introduction to the Park

The Norfolk and Suffolk Broads is a unique mosaic of rivers and shallow lakes, marshes, fens and woodland, and is home to some of the rarest plants and creatures in the UK. It is Britain's largest protected wetland, and a member of the national park family.  The Broads Authority was set up in 1989 to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the Broads, promote the enjoyment of the Broads and protect the interests of navigation. It must also have regard to the needs of agriculture and forestry, and the economic and social interests of those who live or work in the Broads. 

The Broads is a fascinating area with a rich history, reflected in the many wonderful places to visit and the unique wildlife. There are restored windmills, medieval churches, beautiful gardens and great places for family visits. If you enjoy walking or cycling, there are also many routes to choose from.

For many people, a great way to explore the Broads is by water, as much of the history of the Broads revolves around the way the rivers have been used over the years. For many, the charm of the Broads rests on the illusion of remoteness you get when you're on the water. You can be near a village without knowing that there is anybody or anything for miles around. So, whatever you do, try to get afloat and you will find much to surprise and delight you.

Over two million people visit the Broads every year, exploring by land or water or a combination of both. There are many different ways to enjoy the area, including sailing, motor-boating, canoeing, fishing, bird-watching, walking and cycling. 

Boats are an integral part of the Broads, which is one of the most extensive and varied inland waterways in the country, and one of the most popular in Europe. It offers 200 kilometres (125 miles) of boating on lock-free tidal rivers.

The Broads has been important for sailing and other types of boating since the end of the 19th century. It is a unique navigation system where special inland sailing craft have evolved and where sailing has remained a significant influence.

Getting There

BY TRAIN  One Railway operates an InterCity half-hourly service between Norwich and London Liverpool Street with local connecting services within East Anglia. Average journey time from London 1 hour 50 minutes. There are connecting services from the Midlands, the North of England and Scotland via Peterborough.

Local Broads stations are located at: Acle, Beccles, Berney Arms, Brundall, Brundall Gardens, Buckenham, Cantley, Great Yarmouth, Haddiscoe, Hoveton and Wroxham, Lingwood, Lowestoft, Norwich, Oulton Broad, Reedham, Salhouse, Somerleyton and Worstead.  Two scenic railways service the Broads - the Bittern line (northern Broads and Norfolk) and Wherry Lines (central and southern Broads). 

Getting Around the Park

The park is ideally explored by boat and the Park Authority can give advice on local boat hire and safety.  Boats can be hired for day or an entire holiday.  Walking and cycling are also ideal within the park.  

The Broadlander bus, number 54, offers a regular service (first bus 8.30am, last bus 3.30pm) from Norwich (St Stephen's Street, stand H) taking in the picturesque route through Rackheath, Hoveton, Horning, Ludham and Catfield to Stalham. Tel Traveline, 0870 6082608.

BroadsHopper - a great new bus service linking Blickling Hall near the town of Aylsham to Acle, serving key locations on route, and linking with local bus and train services. Tel Traveline, 0870 6082608.  The Bittern line and Wherry Lines (railways) operate services within the park.

Find out about all local transport at Traveline East Anglia

Links

 Broads Authority
 Broads Authority National Parkd the Beacons Park