Things to do in Norfolk Broads
Discover the best attractions and experiences Norfolk Broads has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the region's storied past through castles, halls, and ancient ruins that dot the Broads and nearby countryside.
Norwich Castle
A medieval fortress overlooking the city, housing historic rooms and city views.
Blickling Hall
A grand Jacobean mansion with terraced gardens set in the Norfolk countryside.
Castle Acre Priory
Ruins of a medieval priory that tell tales of monastic life in medieval Norfolk.
Museums
Delve into local history and coastal culture at museums across Norfolk and the Broads.
Time and Tide Museum
A maritime and social history museum in Great Yarmouth housed in a former Victorian fish processing factory.
Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery
A museum complex inside the castle with historic artifacts and regional art.
Bridewell Museum
A Norwich museum presenting the city’s social and industrial history inside a former jail.
Religious Monuments
Visit venerable churches and abbeys that punctuate the landscape with history and architecture.
Norwich Cathedral
A stunning medieval cathedral with impressive architecture and a rich spiritual heritage.
Wymondham Abbey
A grand 12th-century abbey church set in the market town of Wymondham.
Great Yarmouth Minster
A prominent parish church with a commanding riverside presence in the town.
National & Theme Parks
Family-friendly and natural area escapes that showcase Norfolk’s outdoors and imagination.
BeWILDerwood (Horning)
A whimsical woodland adventure park with tree houses and magical storytelling.
Norfolk Broads National Park
A vast wetland landscape famed for boating, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints.
Neighborhoods
Discover charming towns and villages that orbit the Broads and give a sense of local life.
Wroxham
A hub on the River Bure often called the capital of the Broads, with shops and boatyards.
Horning
A picturesque village along the river with riverbank pubs and stroll-worthy lanes.
Acle
A riverside village gateway to the southern Broads with charm and thatched cottages.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy outdoor exploration and wildlife watching without an entry fee.
Ranworth Broad nature reserve (birdwatching)
Walk the boardwalks and spot waterfowl and snipe in a tranquil reserve.
Hickling Broad boardwalks
Explore one of the Broads’ largest wetlands via accessible paths.
Punting on the Broads
Try a quiet punt along calm waters and watch the world go by.
Gastronomy
Savor Norfolk seafood and local fare at coastal inns and market towns.
Cromer Crab
Delicate, sweet crab served fresh in seafood houses along the coast.
Norfolk Oysters
Seasonal oysters savored at coastal eateries near the Broads.
Adnams beer
Award-winning ales and beers from the renowned brewer in nearby Suffolk and Norfolk regions.
Nightlife
Evening vibes range from historic pubs to live music venues in Norwich and coastal towns.
The Fat Cat (Norwich)
A famed traditional pub offering real ales and a lively atmosphere.
Norwich Theatre Royal
Historic theatre hosting touring shows and live performances.
Norwich Playhouse
Intimate venue with contemporary shows, comedy, and gigs.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and venues for arts and cinema across the region.
The Forum, Norwich
Major arts and entertainment venue hosting gigs, talks, and cinema.
Maddermarket Theatre (Norwich)
Historic venue offering theatre and live performances.
Norwich Puppet Theatre
An intimate stage for puppetry and family shows.
Sports
Water-based and countryside activities to get you moving around the Broads.
Sailing on the Norfolk Broads
Charter a sailing boat or hire a yacht to explore the waterways.
Kayaking on the Broads
Paddle the calm waters and wildlife-rich channels.
Cycling on Weavers Way
Follow scenic cycle routes through rural Norfolk and along the Broads.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and unusual ways to explore beyond the obvious highlights.
Bure Valley Railway
Steam and heritage railway offering a scenic ride between Aylsham and Wroxham.
Berney Arms
Remote village with historic pub and quirky rail connections—worth the trip for the atmosphere.
Ranworth Nature Reserve visit by foot
Explore lesser-known corners of the Broads on quieter walking trails.