Explore the Northern Broads
Wide open skies, iconic waterways, timeless villages and family adventures await in the Northern Broads. From Wroxham and Horning to Stalham and Potter Heigham, this is where boating holidays, waterside stays, wildlife days out and great local food come together in one unforgettable escape.
Map of things to do on the Northern Broads
Discover the best of the Northern Broads
Base yourself in the heart of the action and explore at your own pace. Browse and shop in Wroxham, step aboard a boat in Horning or Potter Heigham, uncover Broadland stories in Stalham, or simply slow down and soak up the landscape. The Northern Broads offer classic Broads experiences for first-time visitors and seasoned explorers alike.
Boating and time on the water
Set out with Barnes Brinkcraft, Herbert Woods, Horning Pleasurecraft Ltd, Norfolk Broads Direct Limited, Richardsons Leisure Ltd or Broom Boats Ltd for a Broads holiday packed with freedom, fresh air and ever-changing views.
For day trips and waterside adventures, look to Broads Tours, Go Paddle, Sutton Staithe Boatyard and Martham Ferry Boatyard.
Places to stay
Choose from waterside hotels, cottages and lodges across the Northern Broads. Enjoy a stylish stay at Hotel Wroxham, unwind at Hoveton Hall B&B, or settle into a self-catering break with Horstead Cottages, Norfolk Holiday Lodges Ltd, Poolside Lodges or Tunstead Cottages. You can even get married and stay one of the many in the beautiful properties within Worstead Estate.
Looking for a cosy base close to the water? East Ruston Cottages Limited and Waterside Breaks Ltd make it easy to turn a short visit into a longer escape.
Days out for all ages
Ride through the countryside on Bure Valley Railway, explore local heritage at the Museum of the Broads, meet animals at Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens, or enjoy shopping, crafts and family fun at Wroxham Barns.
Add in browsing at Roys of Wroxham and you have a day out that mixes adventure, discovery and classic Broads charm.
Food, drink and local flavour
Refuel with waterside dining, country pub comfort and local treats. Enjoy a meal at The Swan Inn Stalham, a relaxed stop at The Dog at Ludham, or perhaps the White Horse in Upton.
For a true taste of Broadland, browse local favourites such as Lathams of Potter Heigham and discover artisan delights at Willow Tree Delicatessen.
Why choose the Northern Broads?
The Northern Broads are home to some of the area’s best-known boating centres, including Wroxham, Horning and Stalham, making them a perfect base for exploring by water or land. With a mix of attractions, independent businesses and beautiful open landscapes, this part of the Broads offers variety without the need to travel far.
Plan your Northern Broads adventure
For first-time visitors
Start in Wroxham, explore by boat or rail, then head out to Horning, Ludham, Potter Heigham and Stalham for the classic Northern Broads experience.
For families
Combine hands-on attractions, wildlife encounters and easy-going days with visits to Wroxham Barns, Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens and Bure Valley Railway.
For boaters
Choose from trusted Northern Broads operators and set your own pace, whether you want a short break, a full boating holiday or a relaxed day afloat.
For slow explorers
Stay a little longer, wander market towns and waterside villages, and enjoy the quieter pleasures of the Broads with good food, comfortable stays and beautiful surroundings.
Your Northern Broads journey starts here
From iconic boating destinations to family attractions, cosy stays and memorable places to eat, the Northern Broads bring together everything you need for a brilliant Norfolk escape.