Attractions in the Norfolk Broads

There are many attractions locally just ready to be explored.

Sitting just one mile from the gorgeous Norfolk coastline, the four-storey high, red brick Horsey Windpump dominates the skyline. Owned by the National Trust, the windpump has been restored and is open to the public from March to October. From the top you will see stunning views across the sparkling waters of Horsey Mere and far beyond. There are refreshments available at the windpump, while the village of Horsey is about a mile away where you will find the Nelson Head Pub, perfect for a spot of lunch.

Uncover the unique history of The Norfolk Broads and its people at the Museum of The Broads, set on the waterside at Stalham. Hear the incredible stories of the people who made this special landscape come alive, see displays of the tools they would have used for their trades such as thatching, rope making or even eel catching and marvel at the boats of the past.

What better way to relax and soak up the picturesque Norfolk countryside than on a steam locomotive. Starting off in the town of Aylsham the Bure Valley Railway embarks on an 18 mile round trip through the beautiful countryside, passing through the villages of Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall, all delightful places for a stop-off, before arriving at Wroxham. Here travellers can either while away the hours exploring the town on foot or take a cruise on the water. The train then returns to Aylsham Station where you find a large shop stacked with souvenirs where you can buy a memento of your day.

Attractions - Norfolk
Hidden away in the heart of The Norfolk Broads, Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden is a great place to escape for some quiet time. Comprised of over 50 hectares of ancient woodland, sparkling water gardens and a private broad, it is a wonderful place to visit at any time of the year. In May, the gardens are home to a fabulous collection of candelabra primulas, named the best naturalised collection in the UK, while in the autumn you will see a stunning display of rich autumnal colours. Enjoy a boat trip on the broad and out to see the isolated St Benets Abbey - once an important Anglo-Saxon monastery but now all that remains is the gatehouse plus eighteenth century windmill.

For a fascinating journey into the secret world of radar detection visit the RAF Air Defence Radar Museum. Learn about the history and development of Detection, Air Defence Radar and Air Battle Management from the 1930s to the modern computer technology of today. Housed in the original operations unit built in 1941 at RAF Neatishead, near Horning, there are many fascinating hands-on exhibitions including the Battle of Britain Filter Room of 1940 and a Cold War Ops Room used until 1993.

Wroxham Barns really has something for everyone and is a must visit during your holiday. For the children, the first stop has to be Junior Farm, where they can experience hands-on fun in a real farmyard. For adults and children, take time to visit the skilled craftspeople in the converted barns who you will see making beautiful and unique gifts including pottery, jewellery and even real Norfolk Cider! The shopping is also excellent with clothes, restaurant, coffee shop, health and beauty products, toys and much more.

Attractions - Norfolk

Villages and towns in the Broads

The delightful village of Woodbastwick is well worth a visit, even if just for a short period to soak up the peace and tranquillity away from the busier towns. Having twice won the Best Kept Village Award, it is a beautiful place with a stunning medieval flint church finished with Norfolk thatching. A visit to Woodfordes Ales Brewery is a must where you can take a guided tour of the Brewery, sample some of the excellent Norfolk ales on offer and even buy a home brewing kit.

The town of Potter Heigham is another favourite with visitors and is an excellent place for boat hire. Most famous is Lathams, a large store offering many great deals for the bargain hunter! It has an excellent fishing tackle department - perfect for those who fancy trying out this pastime while in the area. Another treat is to watch sailors attempt to travel under a tiny Medieval bridge, renowned for being the most difficult to navigate in the area!

Attractions - Norfolk