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Day One: Wroxham - Gateway to the Norfolk Broads
Wroxham is considered to be the Gateway to the Norfolk Broads, with many of
the region’s boat hire firms being based here. A small but bustling
place that is home to Roys of Wroxham, said to be the largest village
store in the world! What better place to climb aboard a Broads cruiser
for the day and explore the area afloat.
For day boat hire we recommend Fineway Launch Hire in Wroxham. This is a
family run business where you will find clean and reliable boats with
a choice of either eco friendly electric or diesel powered. Don’t
worry if you’ve no experience with boats, as the rules of the river
are simple to follow, and after a brief training session you will be
Master and Commander of your own vessel.
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Once you have hired your boat our recommended route for a day trip
is as follows: |
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When you leave Fineway Launch Hire boatyard turn right onto the main
River Bure and pass under the historic Wroxham bridge. As the bridge
itself is low you will find that many of the holiday cruisers cannot
get through and the river will be noticeably quieter on the other
side. |
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The water quality is so good here, you will find water lilies
growing wild and you can see the river bed in many places. Watch out
for the vivid blue flash of the kingfishers as they dart along the
river from tree to tree! |
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Be sure not to miss ‘Bridge Broad’ – it is signposted but very
small. This is one of the prettiest Broads and is not accessible on
foot. |
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You will also pass a large sloped grassy meadow (Cane Meadow), which
sweeps down to the river and has a sandy edge. It is quite normal to
see people picnicing and swimming here as it is popular with locals. |
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Further along you will come into the village of
Belaugh – there are
no shops here but there is a public staithe and the pretty village
church which sits high on the hill is well worth the walk. |
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Venturing further you will come to Coltishall, and continuing past
the first moorings you come to on the right where two pubs sit side by
side, you will come to Coltishall Green, which is a good place for a
lunch stop, just before the road bridge. There are several pubs in the
village, a fish and chip shop and several other shops including two
selling antiques. We suggest you leave your boat moored at the green
and walk over the road bridge to the ‘Recruiting Sergeant’ where you
will find an extensive menu that caters for all – warning, large
portions !! |
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Most boats will not proceed further than Coltishall Green but in
small day boats it is possible to go further towards the end of
navigation which is Coltishall Lock (although it is not possible to go
all the way in the boat). |
Useful Norfolk Broads Contacts
Below you will find suggestions for accommodation, activities, attractions,
food & drink and shopping. All useful
contacts while visiting the Norfolk Broads.
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Dairy Barns
Dairy Barns is part of a family farm located 5 minutes from sandy beaches and the Broads. Finalist best bed and breakfast in Norfolk 2006 and 2007. We love welcoming people to our farm and offer a warm welcome to everyone. 6 spacious rooms.
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Barnes Brinkcraft
Cruiser Hire - Weekly or Short Breaks
Day Boat Hire
Self Catering Holiday Accommodation
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Horsey Windpump
Fully restored historic drainage windpump. Only National Trust property in the Norfolk Broads that is open regularly. Striking views across the Norfolk Broads and to the coast. Internationally important estate for wildlife. Premier birdwatching area.
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Broad House Hotel
Broad House is a 9 bedroom, Grade II listed English country estate. This boutique hotel located on the Norfolk Broads set in 25 acres.parkland is a world away from day to day living, where you can relax and enjoy an informal country house
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Linda H. Matthews Artist
Working artists studio & gallery, in the beautiful northern broads. Paintings & gifts from Lindas work. Also offering structured painting courses and private tuition, for individuals & groups, with an experienced tutor & art materials for sale
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"The
Broads are man-made, resulting from ancient peat workings which
flooded as sea levels rose"
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Wildlife Fact File |
THE KINGFISHER
Alcedo atthis
Probably our most colourful native bird, the Kingfisher as its name
implies is an expert at diving for and catching fish which it swallows
whole.
Despite its dazling plumage, it can be hard to spot when amongst
foliage, so look out for it skimming quikly, low over open water and
if you are lucky you may see it dive after its prey. |
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TOP TIPS |
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In high season it is a good idea to telephone
Fineway Launch Hire and
pre-book your boat on 01603 782309. Fineway Launch Hire have free
customer parking |
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The Recruiting Sergeant
opens at 11am (Midday on Sunday) and serves food from 12 to 2pm,
and from 6.30pm to 9pm |
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Roys of Wroxham Stores have late opening on Wednesday, Thursday &
Friday until 8.00pm |
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Each of the days suggested on this website are covered by the OS Map, Landranger 134
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; grid reference TG306177
