The Beautiful Broads
Whether you love sailing or prefer walking the river’s edge in solitude, searching for the extraordinary birdlife or sitting at an easel capturing its wild beauty on canvas, the Norfolk Broads is a truly magical place.
From the bustling hubs and popular hotspots of Wroxham, Stalham and Horning, which are bursting with amenities, boats chugging along the rivers and throngs of visitors, to secluded unspoilt corners home to rare species of insects and birds, accessible only by foot or canoe, it is a huge area which offers something for everyone.
Ranworth
Ranworth is a beautiful village in the heart of the Norfolk Broads. We have wonderful nature reserve in the village which has a thatched visitor centre on stilts at the end of a boardwalk overlooking Ranworth Broad. From here you can take wildlife trips on the Norfolk Wildlife Trust boat and enjoy the huge array of birds and wildlife. If you are lucky you may catch a glimpse of the rare swallowtail butterfly in the garden at the Boat House.
Ranworth church which you can see from the property is known as the ‘Cathedral of the Broads’. Climb to the top of the tower and enjoy wonderful views of the village and views all the way across to the coast. The church is known for it’s beautiful rood screen and antiphoner, it is well worth a visit. There is also a cafe here.
A few minutes walk from the accommodation is the staithe which is host to the many boats which visit the village. Here you will find the pub, the shop and a cafe. It’s a great spot to have a meal or a drink and watch the world go by. There are walks in the area and you may also like to visit the nearby Fairhaven Woodland and Water Gardens, which comprises of 53 hectares (131 acres) of beautiful ancient woodland, water gardens and a private broad at South Walsham.
Things to do
Hire a boat in Wroxham from Richardsons (electric boats) or from Broads Tours
Hire a canoe or a kayak from The Canoeman who will bring your canoe to Ranworth and explore the hidden creeks. He also runs guided fishing tours.
Take a river boat cruise from Horning on the Mississippi Paddle Boat. See Ranworth from the water.
Visit the seals at Horsey Beach
Enjoy the fabulous sandy beach at Winterton, which has just been voted one of the top ten hidden beaches by Time Out magazine. Enjoy the wonderful cafe ‘The Dunes’, right on the sand! The Fisherman’s Return pub is also definitely worth a visit too. Both very dog friendly.
Visit Bewilderwood, a children’s play park, tree houses, zip wires and crocklebogs await!
Visit Fairhaven Gardens in nearby South Walsham, 130 acres of ancient woodland with its own broad.
Visit our fine city, Norwich with its beautiful cathedral, majestic castle and wonderful lanes of individual shops. Take a stroll around Norwich market which has been in the same spot since Roman times and relax in one of the many individual cafes.
Where to eat
The Maltsters is our local pub, 5 minute’s walk away, which serves lunch and dinner (no reservations). The wood fired pizzas are very popular! Dog friendly.
The Ship in South Walsham and The Fur and Feather in Woodbastwick are traditional pubs about a mile away in our neighbouring villages. The Fur and Feather is home to local brewery, Woodfordes.
For finer dining about 25 minute’s drive away, The Ingham Swan is worth a visit. Fantastic food in a beautiful thatched house.
For great Indian food try The Tamarind in Blofield Heath about 5 minute’s drive away.
For freshly cooked food The Kitchen Garden is a relaxing place to eat. Set in a pretty courtyard in Hoveton Hall Gardens, all the food is freshly cooked. Please check for opening times.
