Go cycling in the Broads

Take it up a gear

It might not have the high octane rush offered by the mountains in the more northerly national parks but the rolling hills, pretty lanes and trails of the Broads suit nearly all levels and abilities and make it great for family bike trips.

Two people wearing helmets ride bicycles along a dirt path beside a calm river on a sunny day, with blue skies and scattered clouds overhead. The path is surrounded by grassy fields and bare trees in the distance. — The Broads has some stunning cycle paths to explore

Finding a route

With so much to explore, you might need some help planning a route.

Simply grab your helmet, choose one of the routes below, download the GPX file (or print out a copy) and hop on your bike for a great day out exploring the idyllic Broads National Park:

Three Rivers Way Hoveton to Horning (2.5 miles)
Stokesby Loop (8 miles)
Grand Estate Cycle Route (11 miles)
Reedham (12 miles)
Thurne to Somerton (15 miles)
Loddon to Gillingham (17 miles)
Horsey to Bastwick (19 miles)
Bure Valley Railway Loop (19 miles)
Marriot’s Way (25 miles)
Southern Broads Loop (38 miles)

We also highly recommend checking out the Broads by Bike website to check out some other options.

Downloadable routes from smartphone apps

Discover the Broads by bike and enjoy some of the most scenic cycling routes in the region. From gentle rides along peaceful country lanes to family-friendly trails through villages and waterways, there’s a route for everyone. To make exploring even easier, you can follow step-by-step directions straight from your smartphone using apps such as Komoot and OutdoorActive which both have Broads-specific collections. With detailed maps, route highlights, and GPS guidance at your fingertips, you’ll have everything you need for a perfect day out on two wheels. We suggest you do your own research before embarking on any of these routes to check for traffic, diversions and weather conditions.

What to bring

Hire a bike or bring your own

First you’ll need to decide on the bike. If you don’t want to bring your own, there are businesses that offer bike hire for the length of your holidays or for a day trip. If do decide to hire, make sure you think about the routes you might want to cycle and ask for advice on the best bike for you.

Dress for the weather

Next, you’ll need to think about what to wear. The Broads enjoy relatively dry and sunny weather compared with many other parts of the UK, though conditions can still change quickly, so you still need to make sure you’re prepared for all weathers. A choice of long and short sleeve cycling jerseys, jackets, gloves and arm and leg warmers should make sure you’re ready for anything. And don’t forget to pack a waterproof.

Finally, don’t forget to think about safety. A backpack containing a water bottle and a map are essential. As is a sturdy cycling helmet!

Remember that cycling is a hugely popular pastime in this part of the world, with both locals and visitors. If you do forget anything on your list, you won’t struggle to find it once you get here.

Solar-powered e-bike charging pods

The Broads Authority is developing a network of solar powered charging points to support people using e-bikes (electric pedal assist cycles) get around the Broads, by giving them space to securely recharge their bikes.

The current locations are:

Carlton Marshes – to the right of the car park near the visitor centre.
Reedham Ferry – in the car park of the pub, adjacent to the flood wall.
Salhouse Broad – near the Dark Sky Platform, next to the campsite.

Each Pod is provided with a 3 pin plug, and users will need to bring their own charger. Booking is made in advance via the JNPR website, or through scanning the QR code on the front of the Pods.