The Broads
The Norfolk Broads is an area of interlinked freshwater lakes. It includes 200 km (125 miles) of navigable waterways. It was designated as a National Park in 1988. The lakes were formed 600 years ago when medieval peat diggings were flooded with the rise of water levels. They are connected by dykes to the six rivers that intersect the area; the Bure, Yare, Waveney, Thurne, Ant and Chet. The area is rich in all forms of wildlife and having a pair of binoculars with you is a must when in the area. A camera is also a good idea to slip into your pocket.
At Stalham Staithe there is The Museum of the Broads. The story of The Wherries, the life of the marshman and wildfowlers, the history of the Broads and boat building. Open Easter to end of October, Mon to Fri 10.30 to 5.00 and weekends in school holidays. Web site
Further along is the Sutton Windmill and The Broads Museum, follow the brown direction signs on the A 149. Open daily 10.00am to 5.00pm from 1st April to 30th September. The Museum is based on social life from a private collection. Seven buildings each dealing with different aspects. The Mill is the tallest windmill in Norfolk, with stunning views from the top of country and coastline.
At South Walsham there is much to see at Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden. One hundred and eighty acres of ancient woodland, water gardens and a private broad. Three miles of woodland walks, boat trips on the private broad, wildlife sanctuary and a children,s nature trail. Open daily all year 10am to 5pm extended to 9pm on Wednesday and Thursday for May to end August. Tel 01603 270449
The view from the top of the church tower at is spectacular but involves many stairs and ladder access to reach the top.
