Cruising in Norfolk Broads

The Norfolk Broads, an area of great natural beauty and a haven for wildlife, is one of England's most popular cruising grounds. Cruising slowly and peacefully on the wide rivers and broads (shallow lakes), you will discover a traditional English village way of life existing in harmony with the surrounding wildlife and nature.

Click on the place name to find out more about each location. Not all locations in a region are mentioned on our suggested cruises, why not browse Featured Locations list to help you decide where to cruise.

  • North Broads Cruise

    Wroxham - Horsey Mere - Wroxham

    Although just short distance away by road, it is easy to spend a week cruising this idyllic northern section of the Broads as there is so much to see and do. At the village of Woodbastwick on the edge of Cockshoot Broad visit the local Norfolk Brewery and taste some real ale! Climb the 97 steps to the top of the ancient church tower at Ranworth for panoramic views over the Broads - the views on a clear day are spectacular. Also visit the local nature reserve - an excellent information centre and birdlife viewing station where children will love to find out all about life on the Broads and the delicate balancing act between man and nature. Passing carefully through the lowest bridge on the Broads at Potter Heigham, head for the large Hickling Broad - home to an important national nature reserve and popular with sailing boats. Or follow in Admiral Lord Nelson’s footsteps and learn to sail at Barton Broad. The North Broads are threaded by the rivers Ant and Thurne and have some lovely villages hidden away. Visit Toad Hole Cottage on the How Hill Nature Reserve at Ludham for a glimpse of Victorian country life and a chance to explore the nearby woodland and marshes.

    Locations on this cruise

  • The Three Rivers Cruise

    Wroxham - Oulton Broad - Wroxham

    Seaside, cathedral cities and sailing are all aspects of this lovely coastal cruise on the Broads. From Wroxham, head to Oulton Broad via the Rivers Bure, Yare and Waveney. By the coast at Oulton Broad spend some time at the Lowestoft Maritime Museum and see the international Sailing Craft Association’s fascinating display of boats from every continent. For a change in pace, the seaside resorts of the east coast are also only a short cruise away. Children and the young at heart won’t want to miss out on some fun at Great Yarmouth, the region’s premier seaside resort. Or follow the River Yare to visit the wonderful cathedral city of Norwich. You can moor in the heart of the city and visit not one but two cathedrals and wander its cobbled streets to shop and explore at your leisure.

    Locations on this cruise

  • The Great Norfolk Broads Tour

    A fantastic chance to visit the whole area taking in all the major sites, towns and villages and cruising on all the best parts of the Broads, encompassing all the highlights of the other featured cruises.

    Locations on this cruise