The Broads is famous for its rich history of eel catchers, trading wherries and roof thatchers and so it will come as no surprise that along the waterways are some beautiful historic towns and villages. So if you’re looking to find your fix of thatched roofs, red brick, and the biggest churches imaginable then check out a few of our favourites…
Bungay
A historic English village simply wouldn’t be complete without a good old-fashioned ghost story to go with it. The little market town of Bungay is the stuff of Dickens’ novels. Not only are there willowy Georgian townhouses tucked between Victorian shopfronts but it is also overflowing with folklore and ruins. The famous tale of Black Shuck is strongly associated with Bungay, and its folklore can still be seen in tapestry work hanging in St Mary’s Church. On the outer rim of the village the crestfallen Bigod’s Castle lies in a tumble of mossy brickwork with the perfect park picnic spot opposite. The market town is blossoming with local businesses from florists to bakers, delis to gift shops.
Best for: Quirky features, from the local properties to ruins to ghost stories, the lifeblood of this village is the memory of the ruffs and petticoats which built it, making it the perfect location for curious discoveries.
Ludham
Ludham is a true Broads beauty spot, home to the Wherry Albion, the Wherry Maud and the traditional sailing boat company Hunter’s Yard, with the Norfolk Heritage Fleet. The village is dominated by a traditional Norfolk church, St Catherine’s, with near cathedral proportions. The iconic St Benet’s Abbey is only a short walk from the village and well worth the effort for its Georgian-mill-meets-ancient-gatehouse architectural fusion.
Best for: Sailing boats, home to everything from heritage sailing boats to the mighty wherry, the rivers at Ludham are perfect for a chance of spotting some really beautiful vintage vessels.
Beccles
Beccles is another enticing southern Broads town. If you’re holidaying by boat you can simply float all the way in, moor up and instantly be in the heart of this historic place. The Waveney and Blyth Arts Group is an organisation to keep an eye on. They arrange a variety of artistic events throughout the year taking place in Beccles from sculpture trails to lunchtime talks. Henstead Exotic Garden is the perfect day trip, a place where the Suffolk countryside has been turned into Thai pavilions and beds of giant bamboo. Beccles also has some wonderful waterside walks and historic townhouses aplenty.
Best for: Art vibes. Make sure to check out Beccles Public Hall and Theatre and Beccles Society of Artists for lots of great events to get involved in.
Coltishall
Coltishall is a village which would not look out of place in a Jeeves and Wooster novel. A verdant common looks out upon the River Bure and the marshes beyond with two local pubs situated just at the edge, ready for sailors to moor up and fill up on their delicious food and drink. The houses here haven’t changed much since Flemish gables were the fashion and make for a welcome time warp for true quintessential relaxation.
Best for: Relaxing. Whether you’ve come by boat or foot, the village common is just perfect for a quiet picnic or a good book; a gentle meander around the sleepy village is sure to make you glow with nostalgia.