The Norfolk Broads is a protected area made up of a series of rivers and tributaries famed for it's pictureque scenery and wildlife. Previously thought to be a series of naturally occuring rivers, it was recently discovered to be the result of intensive peat digging during the medieval ages. If you happen to be visiting Norfolk for a few days you will have to stop by "The Broads" (as the locals call it) and admire the scenery. Although you can explore it through the many foot and cycle paths which run parallel to the river, ideally you'll have to rent a boat and spend a few days cruising leisurely around the Broads. There are several companies which offer boats for hire:
Barnes Brinkcraft have a decent selection of boats for hire with an accessible website.
Blakes have a good selection of boats for hire in Norfolk and other parts of England.
Richardson's specialise in cruisers for the Broads and have 2 boatyards in Stalham and Acle.
Fineway Launch Hire in Wroxham is a family run business where you will find clean and reliable boats with a choice of either eco friendly electric or diesel powered. Don’t worry if you’ve no experience with boats, as the rules of the river are simple to follow, and after a brief training session you will be Master and Commander of your own vessel.A good idea to telephone Fineway Cruisers and pre-book your boat. Fineway Cruisers have free customer parking.
Alternatively hiring a canoe will allow you access to miles of idyllic wildlife filled backwaters. There are a number of canoe hire centres on the Norfolk Broads, designed to offer variety and choice, whether you would prefer to paddle your canoe along a small tree lined river or an open stretch of water. Both have their attractions and attract very different kinds of wildlife. The beauty of paddling a canoe on the Norfolk Broads that you need little or no experience. The water is generally flat calm with little or no tidal movement and often no much deeper than chest high!
Canoes centres are based at; Buxton Lamas (River Bure), Wroxham, Horning, South Walsham Broad (Fairhaven Water Garden) and are operated by TheCanoeMan.
