Eastlife Spring 2020

Norfolk
On the
Broads
How to spend a short break
on the Norfolk Broads & Rivers
Written by Mike Garside | www.blakeney-cottage.co.uk
The Norfolk Broads is geographically split, dissected
neatly into the northern and southern river systems and
the broads they link. Crossing by road is limited by the
restricted number of river crossings, and by river or boat,
getting between the extremes of the two river systems
takes days. It’s not surprising then, that what on a map looks
like a 20-minute journey, ends up as a day trip, whatever
your mode of transport.
If you are not careful the Norfolk Broads are quite
underwhelming by car. There is no easy alternative than
actually getting on the water. There are only a very few
places you can drive to and see the long vistas and the
amazing wildlife which surrounds you the moment you get
on a boat and slow down.
Everyone knows Wroxham
If you only want a little bit of river, a few ducks and swans
to feed followed by a good choice of eateries and four
hours in the Roy’s of Wroxham shopping, it’s the Norfolk
Broads destination for you! Great free car parking, and it is
possible to get a good walk on the north bank along the
river towards Coltishall, which takes you beside the river
moorings, usually with a good selection of boats to look
over.
The beer garden behind the Kings Head pub also gives
river views during the summer season and is dog friendly.
On the other side of the river bridge, and still on the North
bank is the Wroxham Hotel terrace restaurant; tasty food
and still a favourite of ours, it has a dog-friendly terrace in
summer and bar during winter.
Wroxham is also the main hub for day boat hire on this
stretch of the River Bure. Small day boats and larger picnic
boats are available to hire on either side of the main river
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