It’s never too early to start planning your next holiday to the Broads, a unique wetland landscape with the same status as a national park. Stretching across Norfolk and Suffolk, this beautiful network of rivers and lakes offers the perfect setting for relaxation and adventure alike. Whether you’re dreaming of captaining your own boat, exploring charming waterside villages, spotting rare wildlife, or simply unwinding in peaceful surroundings, the Broads provides an escape at any time of year. From cosy waterside pubs and scenic walking and cycling routes to unforgettable days on the water, here’s some inspiration to help you plan your perfect Broads getaway.
On a boat!
The first thing most people think of when they think of the Suffolk or Norfolk Broads is a holiday on a boat. The Broads National Park provides a unique opportunity to enjoy over 125 miles of lock-free waterways for you to escape, explore and enjoy.
A boating holiday on a modern luxury cruiser on the Broads is a unique experience you’ll never forget and there are loads of hire companies to choose from. You could even find yourself a classic wooden motor cruiser, built in the 1950’s, from Martham Boats and take to the water in nostalgic style.
One of the most environmentally friendly ways to discover the Broads is on a sailing yacht. Eastwood Whelpton Sailing Holidays at Upton have traditional and modern yachts to hire. Or, truly step back in time on a classic yacht from Hunter’s Yard at Ludham. They maintain and hire a beautiful fleet of traditional wooden sailing craft designed and built in the 1930s.
In a stunning waterside cottage
Have you ever dreamed of a waterside holiday cottage with your own day boat moored right outside? Sleep on dry land and spend your days exploring the Broads by boat from your own front door. Waterside Breaks, Riverside Rentals and Norfolk Holidays Lodges all have a stunning range of waterside properties for you to choose from.
Sleep under the stars
Three Rivers Camping offers a wonderfully peaceful way to experience the beauty of the Broads, with the River Waveney flowing right beside the site. Nestled in the tranquil countryside near the charming village of Geldeston, the campsite allows you to wake up to the gentle sounds of the water and enjoy riverside views throughout your stay.
Set in the beautiful southern half of the Broads National Park, Waveney River Centre offers camping, touring and glamping, with stunning views of the river and Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve. Pick up a day cruiser or canoe and explore the River Waveney and the pretty market town of Beccles.
A traditional hotel
Enjoy all the service that comes with a traditional hotel. At the heart of the Broads National Park, only eight miles from Norwich, the Hotel Wroxham enjoys an enviable position with superb views of one of the busiest stretches of the River Bure. The hotel has 18 en-suite rooms, all on the first floor and most with riverside views.
Staying at Maids Head Hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the Broads while enjoying the rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere of Norwich. Located opposite the magnificent Norwich Cathedral, this historic hotel combines character and comfort, offering a relaxing retreat after a day spent on the water or discovering the surrounding countryside. From here, the Broads are easily accessible by car, train or bus. Guests can enjoy the best of both worlds: the cultural attractions, shops, and restaurants of the city, alongside the tranquil beauty and outdoor adventures of the Broads.
A Holiday Park by the seaside
Great Yarmouth is one of the UK’s most popular seaside resorts and sits at the edge of the Broads National Park. With 15 miles of sandy beaches from Winterton-on-sea to Hopton, a vibrant seafront and two piers, you’ve got the best of both worlds on your doorstep.
A stay at Hemsby Beach Holiday Park a few miles along the coast will keep the whole family entertained and active. There’s a bucket load of fabulous facilities on offer from Body Zorbing to Archery, GO Juniors to Fencing. When you’re done with all that, head down to their show bar and laugh, dance and sing the night away in style.
Whatever type of accommodation suits you best, the memories of a holiday in the Broads National Park will stay with you forever. Make sure you book your place before it’s too late!