Looking for somewhere to spend a day this October half term? Wroxham and Hoveton are right at the heart of the Broads, with plenty to see and do both on and off the water.
Although Wroxham and Hoveton are often talked about as one place, they are actually two separate villages divided by the River Bure. Wroxham sits on the south side of the river, while Hoveton is on the north, where you’ll find many of the shops, the railway station and Tourist Information. The two are linked by Wroxham Bridge and, for visitors, very much work as one destination at the heart of the Broads.
You can hire a boat and explore the River Bure, take a steam train through the Norfolk countryside, browse the shops, enjoy locally produced food and spend a few hours at one of Norfolk’s best-loved family attractions.
And with plenty of indoor options too, you don’t necessarily need perfect autumn weather to make a day of it.
See the Broads from the water
You can’t visit Wroxham without being tempted to get out onto the river.
Barnes Brinkcraft offers day boats from its boatyard in the centre of Wroxham, giving you the chance to see the Broads from a completely different perspective.
No previous boating experience is needed. You’ll be shown how to operate your boat before you leave the yard, then you can head out along the River Bure and enjoy the waterways at your own pace.
Look out for riverside homes, traditional Broads cruisers and plenty of wildlife along the way. Whether you hire a boat for a few hours or make more of a day of it, autumn can be a lovely time to be on the water.
Day boats are available through to October half term, with options to book for a few hours or for the full day. Or how about a stay in one of their riverside cottages?
All aboard the Bure Valley Railway
Just a short walk from the centre of Hoveton is Bure Valley Railway’s Wroxham Station, where you can swap boats for steam trains.
The narrow-gauge railway runs for nine miles between Wroxham and Aylsham, taking you through the Norfolk countryside by steam.
This October half term, children can travel free with a full-fare-paying adult, with a spooky I Spy activity on the train and a Halloween stamp trail at the stations. Trains operate from both Wroxham and Aylsham stations.
You can travel to Aylsham and back or simply enjoy the railway as part of a wider day exploring Wroxham and the Broads.
Spend a few hours at Wroxham Barns
A short drive from Wroxham takes you to Wroxham Barns, where there’s plenty to do whatever the weather.
Families can explore the Adventure Farm, meet the animals and enjoy the adventure play areas, while younger children can burn off some energy in the indoor soft play at the Play Barn Café.
Browse the independent shops and studios, discover the Norfolk Children’s Book Centre, get creative at Dotty Pottery and enjoy homemade cakes, lunches or afternoon tea at the Courtyard Café.
For October half term, Wroxham Barns is also running its Magic & Mischief activities, with potion making, spell casting and Halloween challenges alongside the usual Adventure Farm attractions. There’s also a Pumpkin Patch where you can choose from thousands of home-grown pumpkins and gourds.
So if the autumn weather doesn’t quite behave, you’ll still find plenty to keep everyone occupied.
Make time for Roys of Wroxham
Roys of Wroxham has been part of the story of Wroxham and Hoveton for generations, celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2025. It has such an interesting history.
Today, the five different stores are still very much part of a visit to Wroxham and Hoveton. Take some time to browse the department store, pick up something for your home or wardrobe, or head into the food hall.
Roys works with a wide range of local producers, so it’s also a good place to pick up Norfolk and Suffolk food and drink – plus the all-important Roys Merch!
Why not put together a picnic before heading to the river, or stop for a coffee and something to eat while you decide what to do next?
Make a day of it
One of the best things about Wroxham and Hoveton is how much there is to do in a relatively small area.
You could start your morning with a steam train ride, pick up something tasty from Roys, spend the afternoon on a day boat, or head out to Wroxham Barns for family activities, shopping and something to eat.
Or simply choose one or two things and leave yourself time to wander beside the river, watch the boats go by and enjoy being in the heart of the Broads.
However you spend it, there’s plenty to discover in Wroxham and Hoveton this October half term.
Looking for more half-term ideas?
There’s lots happening across the wider Norfolk and Suffolk Broads too, from pumpkin hunts and Halloween trails to boat trips, walks and family attractions.
Take a look at our October Half Term in the Norfolk & Suffolk Broads: Things to Do in 2026 guide for even more ideas.