The Broads Outdoors Festival, now in its fourth year, is all about audience participation.
The Broads businesses and attractions have put on around 100 special events to give residents and visitors a taste of what this very special area has to offer. Even if every one of the Broads' 303km of waterways and land is not in use over the next fortnight, a lot of it will be – and the festival will provide the opportunity for people to get to know it better. The Broads has special status – it is one of the national and international family of national parks – for its blend of wildlife, distinctive landscapes, buildings and leisure opportunities. Now is the time to try them – and to get to know a truly magical waterland.
Saturday, May 3
Horning Boat Show
10am-5pm
Boats of all kinds, marine products, vehicles and related services, plus plenty of entertainment and children's activities.
Venue: Horning village. Park at Bewilderwood (NR12 8JW). Shuttle bus to the show costs £1 per person, 50p for children under 12 each way or it's a 15 minute walk. Disabled parking at Horning Village Hall car park.
Cost: Free.
Public transport: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham; bus route 12 from Hoveton/ Wroxham.
Suitable for all the family.
Refreshments available.
Disabled access.
Dogs allowed on leads.
www.horningboatshow.co.ukLandscape photography and classic boat trip
11am-3pm
Discover and photograph the beautiful landscape of the Waveney Valley under the guidance of experienced photographer Peter Eyles during a classic boat trip.
Venue: Meet at Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, NR34 0BT 15 minutes before departure. Cost: £25.
Booking: Essential - call skipper Paul Rainbird on 07789 401742.
Public transport: Nearest rail station Oulton Broad (then 40-minute walk over marsh/footpath to pedestrian ferry service).
Local taxis: 01502 712213.
Suitable for all the family.
Trip includes refreshments, homemade cakes and lunch.
www.waveneyrivercentre.co.ukDawn chorus walk at Carlton Marshes
Either 5-9am or 5.30-9.30am
Join experts on a walk around the reserve who will help you identify the bird song and finish with a full English breakfast at Waveney River Centre.
Venue: Meet at the car park at the Education Centre, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Carlton Marsh Reserve, Burnt Hill Lane, Carlton Colville, NR33 8HU.
Cost: £12 (includes breakfast).
Booking: Phone 01502 564250, or email carlton.education@suffolkwildlifetrust.org
Public transport: Nearest rail station Oulton Broad (2 miles); bus number X2 from Beccles.
Local taxis: 01502 515151.
Adults guided walk, but children are welcome.
www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/reserves/carlton-marshesSaturday May 3 to Monday May 5
Minty's Whizzy Windmills at Bewilderwood
10am-5.30pm
Help Minty, the littlest Crocklebog in Bewilderwood, create a charmingly gorgeous garden by making whizzy windmill flowers.
Venue: Off the A1062 between Wroxham and Hoveton and Horning, NR12 8JW.
Cost: Normal entry fees apply.
Booking: Not essential, but entry tickets can be pre-booked online.
Public transport: Nearest rail station: Hoveton and Wroxham; bus route number 12 from Roys of Wroxham.
Local taxis: Wroxham Taxis 01603 782925.
Cycle Route: www.bewilderwood.co.uk/plan-your-visit/how-to-find-us
Suitable for all the family. This event is aimed at younger children.
Refreshments available.
www.bewilderwood.co.ukSaturday May 3 to Monday May 5
Arts and crafts event
10am-5pm Saturday and Monday, 11am-5pm Sunday
For the ninth successive year the artists and craftsmen of Ludham and area will display their work and skills in showcasing a diversity of talent in pottery, feltmaking, painting, modern art, sculpture, woodturning, beading and much more.
Venue: St Catherine's Church, Norwich Road, Ludham, NR29 5PF.
Cost: Free.
Public transport: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham.
Disabled access
Dogs allowed
Suitable for all the family
Refreshments available
Saturday May 3 to Sunday May 18
Bluebell woodland at Sotshole Broad
Daily 10am-5pm
See stunning displays of bluebells near Sotshole Broad, next to Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden.
Venue: Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, School Road, South Walsham, NR13 6DZ. Head to Fairhaven Garden visitor reception. Bluebell wood is approximately a 20 minute walk from the car park.
Cost: Entry to bluebell woodland included in garden admission, adult £6.10, concessions £5.60, child £3.60 (under 5 free).
Public transport: Nearest rail station Acle, bus route Anglian Buses 124.
Local taxis: 01493 445544.
Cycle route: Broads by Bike Route 9
Children welcome.
Refreshments available.
Dogs allowed on lead, small charge for pooper scooper.
Disabled access: three mobility scooters available - phone 01603 270449 for reservations.
www.fairhavengarden.co.ukSunday, May 4
South Yare Wildlife Group present Breakfast with the Birds at Surlingham Church Marsh
5.30am
A guided walk around Church Marsh Nature Reserve, Surlingham, followed by breakfast at the Surlingham Ferry House pub.
Venue: RSPB Surlingham Church Marsh, Nr Church Farm, Beaverton Road, Surlingham, NR14 7AR. Meet at the Ferry House pub car park.
Cost: £8 (RSPB and SYWG members £7) – includes breakfast.
Booking: Phone Peter Armitage on 01508 538069 or email peter.armitage@live.co.uk
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Norwich.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
Suitable for all the family.
www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/s/surlingham/index.aspxSeven Rivers Canoe Challenge afternoon
Twelve canoeists - including Katie Lawrence, Kev Baxter, Neil Baker and Carl Hunter on behalf of Broads festival sponosors Hoseasons – will be paddling seven rivers in three days to raise money for cystic fibrosis, starting at Norwich Yacht Station on the morning of Friday May 2 and finishing at Hotel Wroxham, Hoveton, on the afternoon of Sunday May 4. This event is supported by Bank Boats.
Venue: Hotel Wroxham, The Bridge, Riverside Road, Hoveton, NR12 8AJ.
Cost: Free.
Public transport: Nearest rail station: Hoveton and Wroxham.
Refreshments available.
www.justgiving.com/7riverschallengeClassic boat cruise with readings and music
11am-3pm
Step on board classic 1930s boat Betsie Jane to experience the beautiful River Waveney with actor Nick Murray-Brown. The trip includes a selection of readings from authors inspired by water and nature along with a background of accordion music. Includes refreshments, homemade cakes and lunch.
Venue: Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, NR34 0BT. Arrive 15 minutes before departure.
Cost: £25.
Booking: Phone skipper Paul Rainbird on 07789 401742.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Oulton Broad (then a 40-minute walk over marsh/footpath to pedestrian ferry service).
Local taxis: 01502 712213.
Children welcome.
www.waveneyrivercentre.co.ukHow to place a Norfolk Trails geocache series
1.30–4pm
This is a 3.25-mile circular walk around Thurne incorporating a section of the Weavers Way. A member of the Norfolk Trails team will show how they choose where to hide geocaches and will lay a new series out especially for the Broads Outdoors Festival.
Venue: Meet at The Lion Inn, The Street, Thurne, NR29 3AP.
Cost: Free
Booking: Email norfolktrails@norfolk.gov.uk to confirm attendance.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Acle; bus route Acle Area Flexibus.
Local taxis: 01692 584800.
Please bring own refreshments.
Suitable for all the family.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
www.norfolk.gov.uk/norfolktrailsA Taste of Strumpshaw Fen
2pm-3pm
An introductory walk to learn about the fascinating wildlife, habitats and history of RSPB Strumpshaw Fen Reserve. Entry to the reserve involves crossing a railway line at the entrance; for those with mobility difficulties, please avoid crossing alone or use the phone at the gate to check with the signal operator that no trains are coming.
Venue: Strumpshaw Fen, Low Road, Strumpshaw, NR13 4HS.
Cost: RSPB members free. Non-members: £3.50 adults, £1.50 children, £2.50 concessions and £7 families. Under 6 years free. Free admission if travel by train or bus (please show valid travel ticket), plus £1 per person for the walk.
Booking: Phone 01603 715191 or email strumpshaw@rspb.org.uk
Public transport: Nearest rail station Brundall; bus route 15A.
Local taxis: 01493 752223
Cycle route: Yare Valley cycle route.
Suitable for all the family.
Refreshments available.
Guided walk
www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/s/strumpshawfen/index.aspxSunday, May 4, and Monday, May 5
Martham Mayfair and Scarecrow Festival
10am-5pm
Celebrate Martham's popular annual scarecrow festival and Mayfair with activities centred around the village green.
Venue: Village Green, Martham, NR29 4PA.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Great Yarmouth (9 miles); bus route First Bus 1 from Great Yarmouth.
Suitable for all the family.
Refreshments available.
Dogs allowed
Disabled access
Sunday, May 4, and Sunday, May 18
Barton House Railway
2.30pm-5.30pm
Ride the miniature railways and visit the old signal box and museum.
Venue: Barton House Railway, Hartwell Road, Wroxham, NR12 8TL.
Cost: Adults £3, children £1.50. Includes one single trip on the Riverside Railway (travel from one station to the next) and admission to the museum.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham; bus route 12 or 14. Free boat from Wroxham Bridge.
Local taxis: 01603 782925.
Suitable for all the family.
Refreshments available.
Dogs allowed
www.bartonhouserailway.org.ukDaily, Monday May 5- Saturday, May 10, and Thursday, May 15-Saturday, May 17
Weavers Way Walk
4.5mile circular walk along the Weavers Way (including Thurne Mill visit and strawberry cream tea).
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
Disabled access
May 5-10, 2pm and May 15-17, 10am
See Thurne Mill working from the inside then tour Wind Energy Museum exhibits and enjoy a strawberry cream tea.
Venue: Meet at the Wind Energy Museum, Staithe Road, Repps with Bastwick, NR29 5JU.
Cost: £10 per person (under 5s free). Free parking at Wind Energy Museum.
Booking: Essential. Minimum of eight people required for event to run. Phone 07796 407864 or email info@windengines.co.uk
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Acle (approximately six miles); bus route First Bus no 1 Great Yarmouth-Matham.
Local taxis: 01493 445544
Cycle route: Just off Weavers Way.
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Gluten-free strawberry cream tea available.
www.windengines.co.ukDaily Monday, May 5, to Saturday, May 10, and Thursday, May 15, to Saturday, May 17
Guided tour and illustrated talk at Wind Energy Museum.
Takes place on May 5-10 at 10am and May 15-17 at 2pm
A guided tour of the museum will follow an informative one-hour talk which changes daily, including Bob Morse and the Wind Energy Museum, The History and Workings of Thurne Mill, Men and Mills and The River Thurne's Mills 1950s-to the present day.
Venue: Wind Energy Museum, Staithe Road, Repps with Bastwick, NR29 5JU.
Cost: £4.50 per person. Free parking at Wind Energy Museum.
Booking: Essential. Minimum of eight people required for event to run. Phone 07796 407864 or email info@windengines.co.uk
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Acle (approx. six miles); bus route First Bus No 1 Great Yarmouth -Martham.
Local taxis: 01493 445544
Cycle Route: Just off Weavers Way.
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Refreshments, including strawberry cream tea, available.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
Disabled access
www.windengines.co.ukTuesday, May 6
Sail the River Bure on the Wherry Albion and explore Cockshoot Marsh
9am-5pm
Sail aboard the historic trading Wherry Albion and learn about her from her crew whilst sailing to Cockshoot Dyke. Once there you will be guided along the boardwalks with a commentary on the flora and fauna. You will pause at the hide overlooking the broad before returning to the boat for the journey back to Ludham.
Venue: Meet at Forsythe Wherry Yard, Horsefen Road, Ludham, NR29 5QG.
Cost: £35.
Booking: Essential. Phone Pam Shallcross on 01692-630593 or email charter@wherryalbion.com
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham; bus route 12.
Local taxis: 01692 584987
Children welcome but parent/guardian/carer required.
Bring wet weather gear, sturdy shoes and refreshments.
http://wherryalbion.comTuesday, May 6, and Thursday, May 8
Guided walk: Potter Heigham Historic Eel Sett
10am-1pm
Guided three-mile walk from Potter Heigham church taking in the historic eel sett and Hickling Nature Reserve.
Venue: Meet at St Nicholas Church, Church Lane, Potter Heigham, NR29 5LH. Limited on-road parking.
Cost: Free
Booking: Contact Wroxham Tourist Information Centre on 01603 782281.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Acle.
Over 16s only.
Bring your own drink and snack.
Guided walk
Wednesday, May 7
Catch the Spirit – aboard the Wherry Albion
9am-5pm
Look with fresh eyes at the beauty of Britain's Magical Waterland from the Wherry Albion.
Venue: Meet at Forsythe Wherry Yard, Horsefen Road, Ludham, NR29 5QA.
Cost: £30 per person.
Booking: Essential. Phone 01359 220106.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham; bus route First Bus 12 – Wroxham to Stalham.
Local taxis: 01692 678775
Cycle route: By road A1062.
Suitable for children over eight.
Snacks, tea and coffee available during the cruise. There's a lunch stop with the option of visiting a local pub.
www.broadsspirituality.org.ukThursday, May 8
Paddle a broad
10-12.30am and 1.30-4pm
A circular canoe paddle around the fringe of Barton Broad to experience the scenery and wildlife.
Venue: Meet at Barton Broad car park 30 minutes before paddling starts.
Cost: Adults £7.50, children £5
Bookings: Book through Hoveton Tourist Information Centre on 01603 782281.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham; bus route 12 from Norwich.
Local taxis: Wroxham Taxis 01603 782925
On road parking and toilets at the start and finish of the trip only.
No unaccompanied under 16s.
Bring your own refreshments.
www.enjoythebroads.comFriday, May 9
Broads Heritage Day on the trading Wherry Albion
9am-5pm
A day sailing on the Wherry Albion with visit to Ranworth.
Venue: Forsythe Wherry Yard, Horsefen Road, Ludham, NR29 5QG.
Cost: £35.
Booking: Essential, phone Pam Shallcross on 01692 630593 or email charter@wherryalbion.com
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham; bus route 12.
Local taxis: 01692 584987
Children must be accompanied by parent/ guardian/ carer.
Refreshments available at St Helen's Visitor Centre
http://wherryalbion.comHike to historic Hardley Cross
7pm-9pm
A three-mile stroll on a circular walk off the Wherryman's Way.
Venue: Meet at Hardley Staithe, NR14 6AD.
Cost: Free
Booking: For further information, contact Whitlingham Tourist Information Centre on 01603 756094.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Norwich; bus route Anglian 85.
Local taxis: 01508 520705
Cycle route: National Cycle Route 1
Suitable for over 8s – no unaccompanied under 16s.
Refreshments available – there are cafes, takeaways and pubs at Loddon, Chedgrave and Surlingham.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
www.enjoythebroads.comIn the wake of the Wherries, Geldeston
10am-5pm
Guided trip on a classic 1930s boat following the route of the old trading wherries. Trip includes refreshments, homemade cakes and lunch.
Venue: Meet at Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, NR34 0BT. Please arrive 15 minutes before the trip.
Cost: £30 per person
Booking: Limited space so booking is essential. Phone skipper Paul Rainbird on 07789 401742.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Oulton Broad South and 30-minute walk across the marshes to pedestrian ferry.
Local taxis: 01502 712213
Children welcome.
Saturday, May 10
Try your hand at canoeing – for free!
9am–12noon
Take out a three-seat canoe for an hour for free during the Broads Canoe Hire Association's free canoeing morning at any of the member centres. All equipment is supplied on a first come, first served basis. Visit www.canoethebroads.co.uk and www.enjoythebroads.com/boating/canoeing In addition, the association is offering a 20pc discount on canoe hire through their members for the duration of the Broads Outdoors Festival (May 3-18) on presentation of a copy of this festival guide.
Cost: Free.
Booking: Not required.
Suitable for all the family.
Refreshments available.
www.canoethebroads.co.ukDigital sketching workshop cruise and classic boat cruise
11am-3pm
Under the expert guidance of artist/photographer Marin Sercombe, learn more about landscape photography and digital sketching while on a river cruise. Trip includes refreshments, homemade cakes and lunch.
Venue: Meet at Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, NR34 0BT, 15 minutes before departure.
Cost: £25.
Booking: Essential. Phone skipper Paul Rainbird on 07789 401742.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Oulton Broad (then 40 minute walk over marsh/footpath to pedestrian ferry service).
Local taxis: 01502 712213
Children welcome.
www.waveneyrivercentre.co.ukBoat trip and guided walk around Hoveton Great Broad Nature Trail
11am
Cruise from Wroxham through Wroxham and Salhouse Broads with a guided nature walk at Hoveton Great Broad Nature Trail.
Venue: Meet at Broads Tours, The Bridge, Wroxham, NR12 8RX.
Cost: Adults £9, children £7.50, under fives free.
Booking: Essential, limited spaces. Phone 01603 782207.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham. Suitable for all the family.
Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11
National Mills Weekend at Horsey Windpump
11am-4.30pm
Mills Weekend, National Trust staff and volunteers will be on hand to answer your questions about drainage mills and Horsey Windpump.
Venue: National Trust Horsey Windpump, Horsey, NR29 4EF.
Cost: Admission to the mill is £2.50 adults and £1 children.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Acle.
Refreshments available.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/horsey-windpumpSaturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 18
Dawn chorus at Strumpshaw Fen
May 10, 5.30-7.30am, May 18, 6-8am
Experience the magic of the dawn chorus, and learn some of the distinctive songs and calls with an expert guide. Followed by tea/ coffee and croissants.
Venue: Low Road, Strumpshaw, NR13 4HS. Entry to the reserve involves crossing a railway line at the entrance; for those with mobility difficulties, please avoid crossing alone or use the phone at the gate to check with the signal operator that no trains are coming.
Cost: Adults £10, children £5 (RSPB members £8/ £4).
Booking: Essential. Phone 01603 715191 or email strumpshaw@rspb.org.uk
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Brundall; bus route 15A.
Local taxis: 01493 752223
Cycle route: Yare Valley Cycle Route.
Suitable for all the family.
Guided walk
www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/s/strumpshawfen/index.aspxThe Broads Wilderness Bushcraft Camp
11am- 4pm
Wilderness Bushcraft Camp based in the grounds of Hoveton Hall – try firelighting, backwoods cookery, shelter building, making woodland jewellery and pond-dipping. Sessions run for 30 minutes.
Venue: Hoveton Hall Estate, Hoveton, NR12 8RJ. Meet at Norfolk Broads Tourist Information and Activity Centre.
Cost: £10 adults, £5 children, family ticket (two adults, two children) £25.
Booking: Essential as places are limited. Email info@TheCanoeMan.com
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham.
Local taxis: 07775 683814.
Refreshments available.
Disabled access
www.TheCanoeMan.comHenna art workshop and classic boat cruise
11am-3pm
Step on board classic 1930s boat Betsie Jane to experience the beautiful River Waveney with Sarah Corbett and learn about the history and techniques of this ancient art and create
your own piece.
Includes refreshments, homemade cakes and lunch.
Venue: Meet at Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, NR34 0BT. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure time.
Cost: £30
Booking: Essential, phone skipper Paul Rainbird on 07789 401742.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Oulton Broad (then 40 minute walk over marsh/footpath to pedestrian ferry service).
Local taxis: 01502 712213
Children welcome.
www.waveneyrivercentre.co.ukAcle history walk
2pm
A two-hour guided walk through the village with historian Brian Grint to learn about its history.
Venue: Meet in the car park at Acle Recreation Centre, Bridewell Lane, Acle, NR13 3RA at 1.45pm.
Cost: Free.
Booking: Not required.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Acle; bus route number X1.
Please wear suitable footwear.
Suitable for all the family.
Please bring your own refreshments.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
Go wild at Barton Broad
11am-4pm
A fun-filled family day, including the National Worm Charming Championships.
Venue: Barton Turf Adventure Centre, Staithe Road, Barton Turf, NR12 8AZ.
Cost: Free, however there's a small charge for some activities such as worm charming and boat trips.
Booking: Not required.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham.
Refreshments available.
www.btac-services.co.ukBird ringing at Ted Ellis Trust Wheatfen Reserve
9am-noon
A short introductory talk by Dr Iain Barr, of the UEA Bird Ringing Group, followed by bird ringing on the nature reserve.
Venue: Ted Ellis Trust, Wheatfen Reserve, The Covey, off The Green, Surlingham, NR14 7AL. Meet in the car park.
Cost: £4 per person including tea/coffee or £10 per family.
Booking: Essential. Phone David Nobbs on 01508 538036.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Norwich. No Sunday buses. Cycle rack available at the reserve.
Children welcome.
www.wheatfen.orgBoat and fishingjumble
9am-12noon
Experience the popular sale and grab a bargain.
Venue: Museum of The Broads, The Staithe, Stalham, NR12 9DA.
Cost: Entry 60p
Booking: To book a stall (£7), phone 01692 581681 or book in person at the museum from April.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham. Buses run from Norwich, Wroxham, Mundesley, North Walsham, Cromer and Great Yarmouth/Caister. Phone Traveline on 0870 608 2608 or visit www.travelineeastanglia.org.uk
Local taxis: Stalham Cabs 01692 581666
Cycle route: Broads by Bike Route 7.
Cafe at museum and mobile caterer on site.
Dogs allowed
Disabled access
www.museumofthebroads.org.ukFairhaven Bluebell Walk
11am
A guided 4.5 mile walk through the Fairhaven Woodland Garden and into an adjacent nature reserve not normally open to the public.
Venue: Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, School Road, South Walsham, NR13 6DZ. Meet at the ticket office.
Cost: £6.10 adult, £5.60 concession, £3.60 child; under 5s free.
Booking: Not required.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Acle; bus route Anglian Bus 51.
Local taxis: Our Hire 01493 752223
Cafe on site.
Guided walk.
Disabled access.
Dogs allowed.
www.fairhavengarden.co.ukSunday, May 11, to Sunday May 18 (closed Saturday May 17)
Hoveton Hall Gardens Sculpture Trail
10.30am-5pm
Sculpture trail by local artists within the beautiful Hoveton Hall Gardens.
Venue: Hoveton Hall Gardens, Hoveton Hall Estate, NR12 8RJ.
Cost: Garden entry - adults £7, children 4-16 years £3.50, Under fours free. Over-60s £6.50. Family day ticket (two adults and two children) £19, wheelchair users/carers £5 each.
Booking: Not required
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham 1.7 miles; buses run by First Bus and Anglian Bus.
Local taxis: WroxhamTaxis 01603 782925
Cycle route: Bure Valley Path.
Tea rooms in the gardens.
Disabled access
www.hovetonhallestate.comMonday, May 12, and Tuesday, May 13
Paddle and Plod
10am-3pm
A two-way walk and canoe event along River Thurne, Martham Broad and West Somerton.
Venue: Meet at Martham Ferry Boatyard, Staithe Road, Martham, NR29 4RG.
Cost: Adults £7.50, Children £5. £10 per day parking charge at boatyard.
Booking: Book through Wroxham Tourist Information Centre on 01603 782281.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Great Yarmouth (10 miles); bus route First Buses 1 - boatyard is 1.5 miles from village.
Local taxis: Catfield Taxis 01692 584800.
No unaccompanied under 16s.
Please bring your own refreshments.
Toilets available at boatyard, no toilets on the route.
www.enjoythebroads.comMonday, May 12, to Friday, May 16
Raveningham Gardens Spring Flowers Week
11am-4pm
Enjoy the array of wild flowers in the garden.
Venue: Raveningham Gardens, Raveningham, NR14 6NS.
Cost: Adults £4, concessions £3.50, under 16s free.
Booking: Not necessary.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Beccles (five miles), Haddiscoe (four miles); bus route 577 Loddon to Great Yarmouth.
Local taxis: 01502 710071
Cycle route: Broads By Bike Route 14 (www.thebroadsbybike.org.uk).
Refreshments available.
Dogs allowed
http://raveningham.comWednesday May 14
Coltishall /Horstead circular walk
10.30am-2pm
A five-mile level circular guided walk from the Rising Sun into Coltishall village.
Venue: Meet at car park of Rising Sun, 28 Wroxham Road, Coltishall, NR12 7EA.
Cost: Free.
Booking: Essential - 12 places only. Phone Hoveton Tourist Information Centre on 01603 782281.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Coltishall station on the Bure Valley Railway; bus route Sanders Coaches 55 from Norwich.
Local taxis: 01603 782925.
No unaccompanied under 16s.
Please bring your own refreshments and note there are no toilets on the route.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed.
www.enjoythebroads.comBramerton stroll
7-9pm
Join the Broads Authority education officer on this gentle stroll around one of the circular walks off the Wherryman's Way and find out about the wildlife and heritage of this historic and attractive part of the Yare Valley.
Venue: Meet at Warren Hill, Bramerton, NR14 7ED.
Cost: Free.
How to book: For further information contact Whitlingham Tourist Information Centre on 01603 756094.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Norwich; bus route Anglian 85.
Local taxis: 01508 520705.
Cycle Route: National Cycle Route 1.
Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and stout footwear.
Refreshments available at Woods End Public House, Bramerton.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
Catch the Spirit – aboard the Wherry Albion
9am-6pm
Savourt the beauty of Britain's Magical Waterland from Wherry Albion.
Venue: Meet at Forsythe Wherry Yard, Horsefen Road, Ludham, NR29 5QA.
Cost: £30.
Booking: Essential. Phone 01359 220106.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham; bus First Bus 12 Wroxham to Stalham.
Local taxis: 01692 678775.
Suitable for children over eight.
Please bring cameras, binoculars, suitable weatherproof clothing and footwear.
Snacks/ tea/ coffee available during the cruise, plus a lunch stop with options of visiting a local pub.
www.broadsspirituality.org.ukWednesday, May 14, and Saturday, May 17
Guided walking tour of St Benet's Abbey
10am
Find out about medieval life at St Benet's Abbey and how monks changed the Broads landscape on a guided three-mile walk from Ludham Bridge to the newly renovated abbey.
Venue: St Benet's Abbey, St Benet's Road off Hall Road, Ludham, NR29 5NX. Meet at Ludham Bridge layby.
Cost: Free.
Booking: Not required.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Hoveton and Wroxham (approximately six miles); bus route 12/12A from Wroxham.
Local taxis: Collingwoods 01692 678775 or Catfield Taxis 01692 584800
Wear suitable clothing and bring water/refreshments. Walk may be cancelled in severe weather.
Nearest toilets are at Ludham Bridge or Ludham village.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
www.norfarchtrust.org.ukThursday, May 15
In the Wake of the Wherries, Breydon
10am-5pm
A guided trip on a classic 1930s boat following the route of the old trading wherries, including refreshments, homemade cakes and lunch.
Venue: Meet at Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, NR34 0BT. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure time.
Cost: £30 per person.
Booking: Essential. Phone skipper Paul Rainbird on 07789 401742.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Oulton Broad South and 30 minute walk across the marshes to pedestrian ferry.
Local taxis: 01502 712213.
Children welcome.
Thursday, May 15, and Friday, May 16
Waveney paddle and plod
10am-3pm
Canoe trail and walk along the River Waveney between Beccles and Geldeston Locks.
Venue: Start and finish at Beccles Town Quay, Fen Lane, NR34 9BH. Free car parking available in Fen Lane, opposite Travis Perkins on Fen Lane.
Cost: Adults £7.50, children £5.
Booking: Essential, through Wroxham Tourist Information Centre on 01603 782281.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Beccles (approximately two thirds of a mile from the quay); bus services run to Beccles Old Market Bus Station (approximately a third of a mile from the quay).
There are no toilets on the route.
Please bring your own refreshments.
The trail will be supervised by a ranger with additional safety cover and instruction provided by a qualified instructor.
Previous experience is helpful but not essential.
www.enjoythebroads.comFriday, May 16
Classic boat trip and guided walk on Oulton Marshes,
11am-3pm
Classic boat trip and guided walk of Oulton Marshes with Suffolk Wildlife Trust ranger Matt Gooch, including refreshments, homemade cake and lunch.
Venue: Meet at Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, NR34 0BT. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure time.
Cost: £25.
Booking: Essential. Phone skipper Paul Rainbird on 07789 401742.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Oulton Broad, then 40 minute walk over marsh/footpath to pedestrian ferry service.
Local taxis: 01502 712213.
Children welcome.
www.waveneyrivercentre.co.ukRockland ramble
6.30pm-9.30pm
Join the Broads Authority education officer for a five-mile guided stroll giving an excellent opportunity to enjoy one of the circular routes off the Wherryman's Way.
Venue: Meet at Rockland Staithe car park, opposite the New Inn at Rockland St Mary, NR14 7HP.
Cost: Free.
Booking: Contact Whitlingham Tourist Information Centre on 01603 756094.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Norwich; bus route Anglian 85.
Local taxis: 01508 520705.
Cycle route: National Cycle Route 1.
Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and stout footwear.
Children welcome.
Refreshments available at pub.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
Saturday, May 17
Illustration and drawing workshop afloat
11am-3pm
Learn the techniques of illustrations under the expert guidance of professional illustrator Carol Liddiment while aboard the classic 1930s boat Betsie Jane. Refreshments, homemade cakes and lunch included.
Venue: Meet at Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, NR34 0BT. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure time.
Cost: £25.
Booking: Essential. Phone skipper Paul Rainbird on 07789 401742.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Oulton Broad (then 40-minute walk over marsh/footpath to pedestrian ferry service).
Local taxis: 01502 712213
www.waveneyrivercentre.co.ukBeginner's photography workshop
9.30am–12.30 pm
Practical workshop in a woodland garden for beginners using SLR or DSLR cameras led by professional photographer Peter Mallett. The workshop will cover basic camera controls and operation, understanding exposure, ISO, shutter speeds and apertures, exposure compensation and lenses.
Venue: Fairhaven Water Gardens, School Road, South Walsham, NR13 6DZ. Meet in the tea room.
Cost: £30 per person (£25 Fairhaven members).
Booking: Essential. Call 01603 270449.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Acle; bus route Anglian Bus 51.
Local taxis: Our Hire 01493 752223
Suitable for ages 12-plus.
Includes tea/coffee and biscuits from 9am.
Please bring your own camera and instruction manual.
Disabled access
Adult craft day – weave a Broadland Scene
10am-3pm
Weave a Broadland scene using pre-loved and recycled materials on a peg loom.
Venue: Museum of The Broads, The Staithe, Stalham, NR12 9DA.
Cost: £25
Booking: Essentional – places are limited to 10 people. Phone 01692 581681 or 01692 670754.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Wroxham; Buses run from Norwich, Wroxham, Mundesley, North Walsham, Cromer and Great Yarmouth/ Caister.
Phone Traveline on 0870 608 2608 or visit www.travelineeastanglia.org.ukLocal taxis: Stalham Cabs 01692 581666.
Cycle route: Broads by Bike Route 7.
Tea/ coffee provided,
but please bring a packed lunch.
Disabled access
Dogs allowed
www.museumofthebroads.org.ukSuffolk Walking Festival Challenge Day 1 – lakes and decoys
9am start
Explore the expanse of the Waveney Valley past lakes, marshes, broads and decoys. A 13-mile guided walk, starting at Fritton Lake and passing through the historic Somerleyton Estate and Oulton Broad and finishing at the Suffolk Wildlife Trust Carlton Marshes Reserve.
Venue: Walk starts at Fritton Lake Activity Park, Church Lane, NR31 9HA.
Cost: £15 per person, including coach return to Fritton.
Booking: Phone 01449 676800 or book online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/92958
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Haddiscoe (1.3 miles); bus route Anglian 80/81.
Not suitable for children.
Bring your own refreshments.
http://suffolkwalkingfestival.co.ukGuided walk
Dogs allowed
Hidden treasures of the river with Norfolk Trails
1.30pm–3.30pm
A 3.25-mile geocaching treasure trail runs around Thurne. Can you find them all?
Venue: Meet at The Lion Inn, The Street, Thurne, NR29 3AP.
Cost: Free.
Booking: Email norfolktrails@norfolk.gov.uk to confirm attendance.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Acle; Bus route Acle area Flexibus.
Local taxis: 01692 584800.
Suitable for all the family.
Please bring own refreshments.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
www.norfolk.gov.uk/norfolktrails
Reedham village walk and brewery visit,
2pm-4.30pm
A 5km circular walk around the village of Reedham, followed by a visit to the Humpty Dumpty Brewery.
Venue: Meet at Reedham Village Hall car park at 1.45pm. Event finishes at Humpty Dumpty Brewery. Additional parking in Pettitts car park.
Cost: £10 adults, children free.
Booking: Phone the Humpty Dumpty Brewery on 01493 701818.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Reedham; bus route X1 to Acle.
Local taxis: 01493 445544/01493 752222
Cycle Route: Wherryman's Way.
Bring water for the walk, other refreshments will be available at the brewery. Walkers will need to complete an outdoor health questionnaire.
Guided walk
www.humptydumptybrewery.co.ukwww.activenorfolk.org/fittogether
Norfolk Broads Yacht Club open day
10am–6pm
An opportunity to find out more about the facilities and training available at the Norfolk Broads Yacht Club.
Venue: Norfolk Broads Yacht Club, The Avenue, Wroxham, NR12 8TS.
Cost: Free
Booking: Not required.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station: Hoveton and Wroxham.
Refreshments available.
Sunday, May 18
Suffolk Walking Festival Challenge Day 2 – through the Broads
9am start
A 17-mile guided walk following the Angles Way alongside the River Waveney.
Venue: Start at Carlton Marshes Reserve, Burnt Hill Lane, Carlton Colville, NR33 8HY.
Cost: £15 per person (including coach return to Carlton Marshes Reserve)
Bookings: Phone 01449 676800 or book online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/92960
Public transport access: Nearest Rail Station Beccles; bus route Anglian Bus 80/81.
Please bring your own refreshments.
Guided walk
Dogs allowed
http://suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk
Storytelling and poetry workshop and classic boat cruise
11am-3pm
Learn storytelling techniques during your cruise with professional storyteller John Row aboard the classic 1930s boat Betsie Jane. Trip includes refreshments, homemade cakes and lunch.
Venue: Meet at Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, NR34 0BT. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure time.
Cost: £25.
Booking: Essential. Phone skipper Paul Rainbird on 07789 401742.
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Oulton Broad (then 40-minute walk over marsh/footpath to pedestrian ferry service).
Local taxis: 01502 712213
www.waveneyrivercentre.co.ukDawn canoe trail at Strumpshaw Fen
6am-8.30am
A canoe trip from Strumpshaw Fen to Rockland Broad.
Venue: Meet at reception hide, RSPB Strumpshaw Fen, Low Road, Strumpshaw, NR13 4HS.
Cost: £25 per adult; £15 per child. £10 discount for RSPB adult members.
Booking: Essential. Phone 0845 4969177 or email info@TheCanoeMan.com
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Brundall; bus route 15A.
Local taxis: 01493 752223.
Cycle route: Yare Valley Cycle Route.
www.thecanoeman.comFamily bushcraft at Strumpshaw Fen
2pm-4.30pm
A wild outdoor adventure for all the family. An instructor will introduce you to the exciting skills of bushcraft, including fire-lighting and backwoods cooking.
Venue: Meet at reception hide, RSPB Strumpshaw Fen, Low Road, Strumpshaw, NR13 4HS.
Cost: £25 per adult, £15 per child. £10 discount for RSPB adult members.
A special deal is available if you book a canoe trip on the same morning – ask when booking.
Booking: Essential. Phone 0845 4969177 or email info@TheCanoeMan.com
Public transport access: Nearest rail station Brundall; bus route 15A.
Local taxis: 01493 752223
Cycle route: Yare Valley Cycle Route
Entry to the reserve involves crossing a railway line at the entrance.
For those with mobility difficulties, please avoid crossing alone or use the phone at the gate to check with the signal operator that no trains are coming.
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