Big boat, little boats, old boats, solar boats, sail boats, power boats, paddle boats and model boats, the Norfolk Broads has all manner of ways to enjoy life afloat.
But there's far more than boats in Britain's Magical Waterland, from musuems, great walks and photography opportunities to birds, butterflies, otters and all manner of wildlife, flowers and fauna.
The Broads Outdoor Festival is a celebration of all that's wonderful about the Broads, and we're all invited.
Step out and discover exactly what the Broads has to offer, from fascinating links to Norfolk's past, its industry and way of life, to birdsong, family fun, arts and crafts and great food too.
Waterlovers will be in their element on the Broads, and those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land will find plenty to do whether they want to count Swallowtail butterflies, visit Broads's churches, enjoy train and cycle rides or shop, eat and relax!
Read on to discover some of the great events taking place during the two week Broads Outdoor Festival.
Saturday 4 May
Horning Boat Show
Saturday 4th May
10am – 5pm
See traditional and modern motor cruisers, yachts, launches, inflatables and RIBs and lots of exhibitors' stands.
Venue: Horning Village, including the river moorings, the village playing field, village greens and community halls
Cost: Free. Reduced entry to Bewilderwood after 3pm for Boat Show visitors
Parking: Bewilderwood (NR12 8JW) with assistance to reach village venues where necessary.
www.horningboatshow.org Suitable for all the family
Refreshments available
Dogs Yes – on a lead insert 'dog' symbol
Disabled Access Yes insert 'disabled' symbol
Cycle Hire
All day
Special discounted cycle hire rates to enjoy the Broads and cycle to the Horning Boat Show from Broadland Cycle Hire at Bewilderwood
Cost: Cycle hire - £5 per adult and children free for the day.
Venue: Broadland Cycle Hire at Bewilderwood, Horning Road, Wroxham, NR12 8JW
Booking: Just turn up and pick your bike (first come, first served) www.broadlandcyclehire.co.uk
Children welcome
Guided Canoe Trail on the River Bure
2pm
2 ½ hour Guided canoe trail on the River Bure – explore the beautiful meandering waterways and see the local wildlife.
Venue: NR12 8RX
Cost: Adults £25, Children £15
Booking: Tel: 0845 4969177 or download booking form online
www.thecanoeman.com Suitable for adults and children.
Saturday 4th May to Monday 6th May
Minty's Whizzy Windmill Garden at Bewilderwood
10am – 5.30 pm
Help Minty, the littlest Crocklebog in Bewilderwood create a charmingly gorgeous garden by making whizzy windmill flowers to take home
Cost: Admission prices vary by height – between free and £12.50
Venue: A1062 Horning Road (between Horning and Hoveton), Wroxham, NR12 8JW
Booking: Not essential, but online booking available
www.bewilderwood.co.uk Suitable for all the family
Refreshments available
Guide Dogs only
Disabled Access Every effort has been made to allow reasonable access to the park however, the upper woodland area, where the play structures are located, is naturally sloping and needs to be assessed as to individual needs.
8th Annual Ludham Arts + Crafts Event
10am – 5pm
Cost: Free
Artists and craftsmen of Ludham village display their skills from pottery to woodturning and much more. Workshops and sheep-shearing demonstrations. Venue: St Catherine's Church, Norwich Road, Ludham, NR29 5PF
Children welcome
Refreshments available
No dogs
Disabled Access Yes insert 'disabled' symbol
A Day Out in Broadland - Photography Exhibition
10am – 5pm
Photography exhibition from local Clubs as well as a competition and an evening with a speaker on wildlife
Cost: Free
Venue: All Saints Church, Church Road, Catfield, NR29 5DB
Sunday 5th May
Dawn Chorus Walk at Salhouse Broad insert 'walk' symbol
4.45 am
Walk around Salhouse Broad on International Dawn Chorus Day for the perfect beginners guide to bird watching, followed by a sumptuous breakfast at The Bell Inn. Cost: £9 adults £4.50 children – including breakfast at the Bell Inn.
Venue: Salhouse Broad, NR13 6RX
Meeting arrangements: Access via car park on Lower Street, Salhouse, Norwich,
Booking: Tobi Baker - Tel: 01603 722775 e-m: tbaker@salhousebroad.org.uk www.salhousebroad.org.uk
Children welcome
Refreshments available
Guide dogs only
Disabled Access Yes - Insert 'disabled' symbol
Morning Birdsong Walk insert 'walk' symbol
9am – 12 noon
A walk around the Wheatfen Reserve with the Warden to hear the birdsong
Cost: £4 per person including tea/coffee
Venue: Ted Ellis Nature Reserve, Wheatfen Broad, The Covey, Surlingham, NR14 7AL
Booking: Tel: 01508 538036
www.tedellistrust.org.uk
Boat and Fishing Jumble
9am – 12 noon
Turn out your sheds and make some money or come early and pick up a fishing or boat bargain
Cost: Visitors – 60p entry. Sellers - £7
Venue: Museum of The Broads, The Poor's Staithe, Stalham, NR12 9DA
Booking: Tel: 01692 581681
www.museumofthebroads.org.uk
Children welcome
Refreshments available
Dogs Yes – on a lead insert 'dog' symbol
Disabled Access Yes insert 'disabled' symbol
RSPB SPRING WILDLIFE WATCH insert 'walk' symbol
8am – 10 am
A spring walk around Buckenham Marshes to look out for the courtship displays of lapwings and redshanks and birds of prey hunting over the marshes
Cost: £5 adults; £3 children (RSPB members £3/£2)
Venue: RSPB Buckenham Marshes, Buckenham NR13 4HW
Booking: Tel: 01603 715191
www.rspb.org.uk/buckenhammarshes Children welcome
Dogs No
EXTRA SPECIAL EVENT
Wildwalk
Birdwatching at Heigham Holmes Reserve – special opportunity to visit Heigham Holmes which is not generally open to the public. Enjoy a guided walk with the National Trust Warden on this special reserve for International Dawn Chorus Day. Look out for marsh harriers and even bittern and cranes.
Insert 'walk' symbol
9am – 12 noon
Cost: £6
Venue: Heigham Holmes Martham Staithe, Staithe Road, Martham, NR29 4PY
Booking: Booking essential Tel: 01493 393450 or e-m: Heigham.holmes@nationaltrust.org.uk www.heigham.holmes@nationaltrust.org.uk Adults only
No dogs
Dawn Guided Canoe Trail on the River Bure
6 am
Early morning guided canoe trail on the River Bure – explore the beautiful meandering waterways and see the local wildlife.
Venue: River Bure, NR12 8RX
Cost: Adults £25, Children £15 includes coffee/tea and croissants
Booking: Tel: 0845 4969177 or download booking form online
www.thecanoeman.com Suitable for adults and children.
Classic Boat and Birdwatching Day
9.30am – 5.30pm
Cruise on a 1930's class boat to Breydon Water to see the wading birds , then explore Berney Marshes. Lunch and home-made cakes included.
Cost: £45 per person
Venue: Starting from Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, Beccles NR34 0BT
Booking: essential. Tel: 01502 677343
www.waveneyrivercentre.co.uk Refreshments available
No dogs
Disabled Access Yes insert 'disabled' symbol
Enjoy the Magic of Dawn at Whitlingham Country Park insert 'walk' symbol
7.30am
Experience the wonder of a Dawn Chorus as the natural world awakens with an RSPB guided walk and take a trip on the Broad in a silent solar powered boat to experience the peace and tranquillity. Followed by cooked breakfast.
Cost: Adults: £15, Children: £10 inc guided walk, boat trip and cooked breakfast
Venue: Whitlingham Country Park, Whitlingham Lane, Trowse, Norwich, NR14 8TR
Booking: Tel: 01603 756094
www.broads-authority.gov.uk
Suitable for all the family
Refreshments available
No dogs
Disabled Access Yes insert 'disabled' symbol
Dawn Chorus Walk at Carlton Marshes insert 'walk' symbol
5.30am – 9am
Join bird experts to help you identify the bird calls
Cost: £10 per person including breakfast
Venue: Carlton Marshes, Burnt Hill Lane, Carlton Colville, Lowestoft, NR33 8HU
Booking: Booking essential. Tel: 01502 564250
Finish it off with a full English breakfast at the Waveney River Centre.
Sunday 5th and Monday 6th May
Martham Mayfair and Scarecrow Festival
10am – 5pm
A fun day out for the family with scarecrows and decorated prams and bikes around the village as well as art exhibition, flower festival, stalls, games, garden sales, treasure hunt, competitions and fairground rides.
Cost: Free
Venue: Centred around the Village Green in Martham, NR29 4AH
Suitable for all the family
Refreshments available
Dogs Yes – on a lead insert 'dog' symbol
Monday 6TH May
Mammal Magic at Horsey Windpump
10am – 12 noon
Get outdoors and closer to nature and explore out nature area to find out what mammals live here, NR29 4EF
Cost: £2.50 per child
Booking: Tel: 01493 393450
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/50things
Suitable for families with children
Refreshments available
Dogs No
Monday 6th May
Catch the Spirit through the Lens – a taste of digital photography insert 'walk' symbol
10am – 3pm
A chance to walk with Briant Smith, Biologist and Methodist Chaplain to enjoy the beauty and enhance your photography skills while you take in the beauty of Britain's Magical Waterland
Cost: Free
Meeting arrangements: Meet at Thurne Methodist Church, The Street, Thurne NR29 3AP
Booking:
Tel: 01359 220106
www.broadsspirituality.org.uk Children 8+ welcome
No dogs
Ashmanaugh Light Railway Open Day
2pm – 5pm (and also Sunday May 19 in aid of Leonard Cheshire Homes)
The Ashmanhaugh Light Railway is a 7¼ inch gauge railway - a must for rail enthusiasts with rides on steam, diesel and electric trains.
Cost: £1 for one ride, £3 to ride as many times as you like or £10 for a family of four to ride as many times as you like
Venue: East View Farm, Stone Lane, Ashmanhaugh, NR12 8YW
www.ashmanhaughlightrailway.co.uk Great for all the family.
Refreshments available
No dogs
Tuesday 7 May
Sail the River Bure on the wherry Albion and explore Cockshoot marsh insert 'walk' symbol
9am – 5pm
Sail on the Wherry Albion to Cockshoot Marsh, gliding along wonderful rivers through magical wetlands, then onto the boardwalks and hide overlooking the Broad before your return journey to Ludham.
Cost: £35 per person
Venue: Departing Forsythe Wherry Yard, Horsefen Road, Ludham, NR29 5QG
Booking: Booking essential Tel: 01692 630593 or e-m: charter@wherryalbion.com www.wherryalbion.com Bring a picnic
Dogs No
Wildlife Photography Beginners Course insert 'walk' symbol
:9.30am -12.30 pm and 1.30pm – 4.30pm
An opportunity to learn tips and techniques for getting the best out of your digital camera to photograph wildlife whilst exploring the Carlton Marshes. Free parking and ferry trip included.
Cost: £20 per person
Venue: Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, Beccles.NR34 0BT. Free parking
Booking: essential Tel: 01502 677343
www.waveneyrivercentre.co.uk
Dogs No
Marshy Meanderings in Fleggburgh insert 'walk' symbol
10am – 12 noon
5km walk (stout shoes/boots required) with the Warden to learn more about the wildlife found in the fen and discover the history of Fleggburgh Common.
Cost: Free
Venue: Meet at Fleggburgh Village Hall Car Park on the A1064. NR29 3AG
Booking essential – Hoveton Tourist Information Centre 01603 782281
No unaccompanied under-16's
Dogs Yes – on a lead insert 'dog' symbol
Wednesday 8 May
Broads Heritage Day on the Trading Wherry Albion
9am – 5pm
Sail on Wherry Albion to Malthouse Broad Ranworth, gliding along wonderful rivers through magical wetlands for a short walk to St Helen's Church 'The Cathedral of The Broads' to discover its treasures before your return journey.
Cost: £35 per person
Venue: Departing Forsythe Wherry Yard, Horsefen Road, Ludham, NR29 5QG
Booking: essential Tel: 01692 630593 or e-m: charter@wherryalbion.com www.wherryalbion.com Bring a picnic and snacks may be obtained at St. Helen's visitor centre
Dogs No
Planes, Drains and Wildlife - special opportunity to visit Heigham Holmes not generally open to the public insert 'walk' symbol
EXTRA SPECIAL EVENT
10am – 1pm
Explore this unusual nature reserve with the Warden via the Martham Ferry. A special opportunity as Heigham Holmes is not generally open to the public. Cost: £6
Venue: Heigham Holmes, Martham Staithe, Staithe Road, Martham, NR29 4PY
Booking: Booking essential - Tel: 01493 393450 or e-m: Heigham.holmes@nationaltrust.org.uk Adults only
No refreshments available
No dogs
Bramerton Stroll insert 'walk' symbol
7pm – 9pm
Gentle stroll around one of the circular walks off the Wherryman's Way to find out about the wildlife and heritage of this historic part of the Yare Valley
Cost: Free
Meeting arrangements: Meet at Hardley Staithe, NR14 6AD
Booking: Whitlingham Tourist Information Centre Tel: 01603 756094.
Suitable for ages 8 years plus. No unaccompanied under 16s.
No refreshments available
Dogs Yes – on lead insert 'dog' symbol
Catch the Spirit at Wheatfen Reserve insert 'walk' symbol
10am – 3pm
A three mile walk around Wheatfen nature reserve with Briant Smith, Biologist and Methodist Chaplain to enjoy the beauty and enhance your photography skills while you take in the beauty of Britain's Magical WaterlandCost: Free
Venue: Wheatfen Broad, The Covey, off The Green, Surlingham, Norwich, NR14 7AL
Meeting arrangements: Meet at car park
Booking: To book Tel: 01359 220106
www.broadsspirituality.org.uk Family Friendly/Children Welcome Children welcome
Refreshments available: No
Dogs No
Wide Angle on Angles Way insert 'walk' symbol
2pm – 3.30 pm
1½ mile guided walk at Burgh Castle with a professional photographer to help you get the best landscape photos from your camera. Then share your results at the Queen's Head pub over a cup of tea.
Cost: Free
Meeting arrangements: Meet at Roman Town Car Park, Burgh Castle, NR31 9QB
Booking: Booking essential e-m: carrie.kerry@norfolk.gov.uk or Tel: 07901 331582 Refreshments available Yes
Disabled Access Suitable for wheelchairs insert 'disabled' symbol
Thursday 9 May
Sunset Guided Canoe Trail on the River Bure
6 pm
Sunset guided canoe trail on the River Bure along miles of beautiful meandering waterways.
Cost: Adults £25, Children £15
Meeting arrangements: Meet at Paddles + Pedals, 10 Norwich Road, Wroxham, NR12 8RX
Booking: Tel: 0845 4969177 or download booking form online
www.thecanoeman.com
Family Friendly/Children Welcome Suitable for adults and children.
Dogs No
Friday 10 May
Hike to Historic Hardley Cross insert 'walk' symbol
7pm – 9pm
An evening guided circular walk along winding and tranquil footpaths and river banks to the historic Hardley Cross learning about the management of the Marshes and the wetland wildlife.
Cost: Free
Venue: Hardley Staithe, NR14 6AD
Booking: Through Whitlingham Tourist Information Centre – Tel: 01603 756094
Family Friendly/Children Welcome Children 8yrs+. No unaccompanied under 16's
Dogs Yes – on lead insert 'dog' symbol
Saturday 11 May
Dawn Chorus at RSPB Strumpshaw Fen Nature Reserve
5am – 7.30am
Experience the magic of the dawn chorus and learn some of the songs and calls with an expert guide from three hides and a dipping platform followed by hot drinks and croissants.
Cost: £8 adults; £5 children (RSPB members £6/£3)
Venue: RSPB Strumpshaw Fen Nature Reserve, Low Road, Strumpshaw, NR13 4HS
Booking: Essential. Tel: 01603 715191 or e-m: Strumpshaw@rspb.org.uk www.rspb.org.uk/strumpshawfen Children welcome
Refreshments available
No dogs
Limited access for wheelchairs
Walk on the Wild Side at Bure Marshes – a special event in an area not usually open to the public insert 'walk' symbol
EXTRA SPECIAL EVENT
10am – 1pm
A magical 1½ walk around the Bure Marshes National Nature Reserve in an area not usually open to the public to discover some of the unique plants and wildlife that live on the marshes
Cost: Free
Venue: Natural England Workshops, Bure Marshes National Nature Reserve Woodbastwick, NR13 6HH
Booking: Tel: 01603 720788
www.naturalengland.org.uk Children welcome.
No refreshments available
No dogs
Free Canoeing Morning at Broads Canoe Hire Association Centres
9am – 12 noon
Try your hand at canoeing, for free! First come first served for a maximum of one hour. All equipment supplied. Up to three adults per canoe.
Cost: Free
Venue: Outney Meadow, Bungay; Waveney River Centre, Burgh St Peter; Rowan Craft, Geldeston; Whispering Reeds, Hickling; Martham Boats, Martham; Herbert Woods, Potter Heigham; Salhouse Broad, Salhouse; Sutton Staithe Boatyard, Sutton; Bank Boats, Wayford Bridge; Barnes Brinkcraft, Wroxham. Please see list of participating centres at www.canoethebroads.co.uk Booking: Please contact individual centres for more information www.canoethebroads.co.uk Children welcome
No dogs
Disabled Access Yes insert 'disabled' symbol
Rails, Trails and Sails at Reedham insert 'walk' symbol
EXTRA SPECIAL EVENT
11.45 am – 3.30pm
Enjoy the marshes and mills of the Yare Valley by train to Berney Arms and five mile walk back along the Wherryman's Way, finding out about the management of the marshes and mills (tours included ).
Cost: £4 (incl. rail fare) £3.00 Children
Venue: Meet at Reedham Rail Station, Station Drive, Reedham, NR13 3JF
Booking essential. Whitlingham Tourist Information Centre - Tel: 01603 756094
Children welcome 8years+. No unaccompanied under 16's.
Please bring packed lunch.
Dogs Yes – on lead insert 'dog' symbol
Wherry Sailing from Wroxham to Barton Turf
Cost: £30 per person
Travel in style down the river on a 100 year old Wherry learning about the history and importance of the Wherries for the Broads. Return land transport included.
Booking essential. Tel: 01603 781475 or e-m: bookings@wherryyachtcharter.org www.wherryyachtcharter.org/events.php
Complimentary tea/coffee. Bring your own refreshments if you wish.
No dogs
Experience the Magic of Sutton Fen by Canoe
6pm – 8pm
Guided canoe safari through Sutton Broad and the River Ant with views across Sutton Fen Nature Reserve and find out about the rare and special wildlife living here. Cost: £25 per person
Booking: Tel: 0845 4969177 or e-m: info@thecanoeman.com www.thecanoeman.com No refreshments available
No dogs
Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th May
National Mills Weekend at Horsey Windpump
11am – 4.30pm
Visit Horsey Windpump where staff and volunteers will be on hand to answer questions while you explore the striking 5-storey windpump with stunning views over Horsey Estate.
Cost: Adults £2.50 Children £1 – National Trust members free
Venue: Horsey Staithe, Horsey Road, Horsey, NR29 4EF
Booking: No need to book
www.nationaltrust.org.uk Suitable for the family
Refreshments available
No dogs
Guided Tours at Morse's Wind Engine Collection
10am – 4pm
Guided tours all day, with working demonstrations, crafts and displays of model engines and vintage motorbikes
Cost: £3 per person
Venue: Marsh Road (Off Staithe Road), Repps With Bastwick, NR29 5JU
Booking: No need to book
www.windengines.co.uk Strawberry cream teas on sale.
Dogs No
Disabled Access Yes insert 'disabled' symbol
SUNDAY MAY 12
Breakfast with the Birds
5.30am
Dawn chorus walk with the RSPB Church Marsh followed by a cooked breakfast at the Ferry House Pub.
Cost: £6.95 for members of the South Yare Wildlife Group, £7.95 for non-members. Location: The Ferry House, Ferry Road, Surlingham ,NR14 7AR
Booking: 01508 538069
No dogs
www.southyarewildlife.wordpress.com
Discover the Broads by train, foot and ferry
10am – 4.40pm
Take the train to Salhouse and enjoy a guided walk around the Church and the Broad, then a ferry trip to Hoveton Great Broad to take the Nature Trail with a lunch stop and return to Norwich station.
Cost: £10 adults, £5 children including train and ferry fares.
Location: Meet at Norwich Railway Station.
Booking: 01603 722775/ tbaker@salhousebroad.org.uk
Advance booking is essential.
Suitable for all the family. Refreshments are available and packed lunches can be supplied on request, for an extra charge. No dogs.
www.salhousebroad.org.uk
Bushcraft Course with The Canoe Man
10am – 4pm
An introduction to basic bushcraft with a specialist instructor. No experience required as you experience nature like never before utilising skills from around the world.
Cost: £45 adults, £35 children.
Location: Meet at Paddles and Pedals, 10 Norwich Road, Wroxham, NR12 8RX.
Booking: 0845 4969177/ info@thecanoeman.com Suitable for all the family. Children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult. No dogs.
www.thecanoeman.com
Otter Spotting Guided Canoe Trail
10am – 4pm
Otter spotting guided canoe trail from Honing Lock to Barton Broad.
Refreshments available. Packed lunch required.
Cost: £40 adults, £25 children.
Location: Meeting point to be advised.
Booking: 0845 4961977/ info@thecanoeman.com
Explore the World of Ants
10am – 4pm
Explore the wonderful world of ants with county ant recorder, Doreen Wells.
Cost: £10 including tea/coffee.
Location: Ted Ellis Nature Reserve, Wheatfen Broad, The Covey, Surlingham, NR14 7AL.
Booking: 01508 538036. Places must be booked in advance.
www.tedellistrust.org.uk
Go Wild at Barton Broad
11am – 4pm
Fun packed family day of walks, boat trips, crafts, pond dipping, minibeast hunting and much more at the home of the Norfolk Worm Charming Championships.
Cost: Free entry (charge for some activities, for example boat trips, bird boxes and worm charming)
Location: Barton Turf Adventure Centre, Staithe Road, Barton Turf, NR12 8AZ.
Booking: No need to book.
Suitable for the whole family. Refreshments available.
www.btac-services.co.uk
National Mill Day at Stubb Mill, NWT Hickling Broad (also Sunday May 19)
11am – 4pm
A rare opportunity to see the inner workings of the newly restored Stubb Mill with Hazel Nudd. Climb right up to the cap to see the inner workings and the wonderful views across the Norfolk Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve.
Cost: Free
Location: Stubb Mill, Stubb Road, Hickling, NR12 0BW. Park at NWT Reserve car park.
Booking: No need to book.
No dogs.
Victorian Steam Launch Sailings at Go Wild at Barton Broad
11am – 3pm
Sail on the Victorian Steam Launch Falcon as part of the Go Wild at Barton Broad day.
Location: Museum of The Broads, The Poor's Staithe, Stalham, NR12 9DA.
Booking: 01692 581681. Please phone in advance to book seats if making a special journey.
Weather permitting.
www.museumofthebroads.org.uk
Afternoon Wherry trip from Barton Broad to How Hill
Sit back and relax on an afternoon trip on a 100 year old wherry as you learn about the history and importance of the Wherries to the Broads. Return transport included.
Cost: £15 per person.
Location: How Hill National Nature Reserve, Ludham, NR29 5PG.
Booking: 01603 781475/ bookings@wherryyachtcharter.org Booking essential. Refreshments available. Complimentary hot and cold drinks on board.
Upton Village – Big Day Out
10am – 4pm
Come and enjoy a great day out in this beautiful Broadland village with a guided walk from 10am-noon on Upton Marshes, stop for lunch at the community owned White Horse Pub and then visit the Village Hall for the annual plant sale from 2-4pm.
Cost: £8.95 per person.
Location: Upton village.
Booking: 01493 750696. Booking is essential for the guided walk and lunch as places are limited.
Refreshments available.
Acle Heritage Walk
2pm
A two-and-a-half-hour Acle Heritage Walk with Brian Grint author of The Acle Chronicles passing many important and historical landmarks, including the site of the Roman archaeological dig.
Cost: Free.
Location: Meet at the Recreation Centre car park, Bridewell Lane, Acle, NR13 3RA.
Booking: No need to book.
All ages welcome. Refreshments availabls - Clovers Tea Rooms in Acle is going to open specially for the day.
Dogs allowed on lead
Disabled Access: Suitable for the first part of walk but not recommended for the second part on the Weavers Way as this could be rutted and muddy.
MONDAY MAY 13
Wildflower Week at Raveningham Hall (runs daily until Friday May 17)
11am – 4pm
Enjoy the array of wild flowers in the garden at Raveningham Hall and also explore the 18th century walled kitchen garden, Victorian glasshouses and arboretum and herb garden.
Cost: Adults £4, concessions £3.50 and children under 16 free.
Location: Raveningham Gardens, Raveningham, NR14 6NS.
Children Welcome. Tea and cakes on sale on sunny days.
Dogs allowed on lead
Most of the garden is accessible to wheelchairs.
www.raveningham.com
TUESDAY MAY 14
Trip on classic boat and guided walk at Oulton Marshes
11.30am – 5.15pm
A trip on a classic 1930's boat with lunch served on board, then enjoy an hour-and-a-half long guided walk at Oulton Marshes.
Cost: £25 per person including lunch.
Location: Waveney River Centre, Staithe Road, Burgh St Peter, Beccles, NR34 0BT.
Booking: 01502 677343/ info@waveneyrivercentre.co.uk Booking essential.
Children welcome.
Refreshments available.
No dogs.
www.waveneyrivercentre.co.uk
Rockland Ramble
6.30pm – 9pm
A five-mile guided stroll to discover the scenic Yare Valley, its wildlife and fascinating history.
Cost: Free
Venue: Meet at Rockland Staithe car park, opposite the New Inn at Rockland St Mary. Postcode for sat nav: NR14 7HP.
Booking: In person at Whitlingham Tourist Information Centre or phone 01603 756094.
Children welcome.
Refreshments available.
Dogs welcome.
No disabled access.
Rollesby Ramble
10am–noon
A five-kilometre ramble around Rollesby and the Lily Broad. Learn about the management of this habitat following restoration work by volunteers and see the wild ponies and other wildlife that has now returned.
Cost: Free
Venue: Meet at Rollesby Village Hall Car Park, NR29 5ER.
Booking: In person at Hoveton Tourist Information Centre or phone 01603 782281.
Children welcome. No unaccompanied under 16's. No refreshments available. Dogs on lead welcome.
WEDNESDAY MAY 15
Planes, Drains and Wildlife at Heigham Holmes
10am – 1pm
Explore the unusual and special Heigham Holmes Nature Reserve with the warden – a rare opportunity as it is not generally open to the public.
Cost: £6
Venue: Heigham Holmes Martham Staithe, Staithe Road, Martham, NR29 4PY.
Booking: 01493 393450/ Heigham.holmes@nationaltrust.org.uk
Booking essential. No children. No dogs. No refreshments.
Ant Valley Walk
10am – 1pm
A three-mile circular walk in the Ant Valley to either St Benets or How Hill and Toad Hole Cottage dependent on the weather and walkers' preference.
Cost: Free
Venue: Meet at the Caravan Club site at Ludham Bridge or outside shop at Ludham Bridge on the A1062 between Potter Heigham and Hoveton. A ranger volunteer will be at both points.
Booking: 01603 756096.
Children welcome - no unaccompanied under 16's. Dogs allowed. No disabled access.
Ghost Walk at Fairhaven Gardens
6.30pm
A spine-tingling walk through the woods listening to the myths and legends of Fairhaven Garden with its private Broad and network of dykes and filled with native and cultivated plants and wildlife.
Cost: Free with garden entry: £6 adult; £5.50 concessions, £3.50 children (under fives free), dogs 25p. Free to members.
Venue: Fairhaven Woodland and Water Gardens, School Road, South Walsham, NR13 6DZ.
Booking: Not necessary, just turn up on the day.
Refreshments available. Dogs permitted on lead.
Full access by wheelchair to all facilities, including gardens. Mobility scooter hire available. Hearing loop-in facilities and some Braille information points in garden.
www.fairhavengarden.co.uk
Waveney Valley Wednesday Woodland Wander
2pm
An Angles Way walk on the rural footpaths and bridleways through wooded hills overlooking the Waveney Valley when spring flowers should be at their best.
Venue: Meet at the Butter Cross, Bungay Market Place, Bungay, NR35 1AP.
Booking: Book online at www.discoversuffolk.org.uk
THURSDAY MAY 16
Catch the Spirit on the Wherry Albion
9am – 5.30pm
Spend a day on the Wherry Albion, bring your camera and capture the beauty of Britain's Magical Waterland along with Briant Smith, biologist and Methodist Chaplain to the Broads.
Cost: £30 per person.
Venue: Meet at the wherry base, Horsefen Road, Ludham, NR29 5QG
Booking: 01359 220106/ briant@broadsspirituality.org.uk Children eight years-plus welcome. There will be a lunch stop with opportunity to visit a pub or cafe or bring a packed lunch. Guide dogs only.
www.broadsspirituality.org.uk
FRIDAY MAY 17
Wherry Hathor Restoration Fundraising Event
7pm
A cheese and wine evening at How Hill to raise funds for the restoration of the Wherry Hathor. Explore the beautiful gardens and view the Wherry Yacht Norada at the Staithe.
Cost: £10 per person.
Venue: How Hill National Nature Reserve, Ludham, NR29 5PG.
Booking: 01692 630674/ bookings@wherryyachtcharter.org Booking essential.
www.wherryyachtcharter.org/events.php
Walking Tour at Morse's Wind Engine Collection (also Saturday May 18)
10am – 2pm
A guided walking tour along the riverbank to see inside Thurne Windpump, then back along country lanes to Morse's Wind Engine Park for a working demonstration of the unique collection, followed by a strawberry cream tea.
Cost: £8.50 per person.
Venue: Morse's Wind Engine Collection, Marsh Road (off Staithe Road), Repps With Bastwick, NR29 5JU.
Booking: Contact Debra Nicolson on 07796 407864/ debra@windengines.co.uk www.windengines.co.uk
SATURDAY 18TH MAY 18
Wake up to Wildlife at RSPB Strumpshaw Fen Nature Reserve
10am – 3pm
A day of wildlife activities for adults and older children with walks, talks and workshops, learning about the birds, bees, moths, bats and more that can be found at Strumpshaw Fen.
Cost: Normal reserve entry costs (£3.50 adults, £1.50 children, £7 family, RSPB members free)
Venue: RSPB Strumpshaw Fen Nature Reserve, Low Road, Strumpshaw, NR13 4HS
Booking: 01603 715191/ Strumpshaw@rspb.org.uk Booking essential. Light refreshments available. Limited access for wheelchairs.
www.rspb.org.uk/strumpshawfen
Boat trip from Wroxham with guided nature trail walk 11am – 2pm
Cruise across Wroxham and Salhouse Broads to Hoveton Great Broad Nature Trail for a 1km guided walk with a Natural England warden surrounded by the wonderful sights and sounds. You may see common terns, dragonflies and even an otter. Return journey to Wroxham.
Cost: Adults £8, children £6.50, under ones go free.
Venue: Broads Tours, The Bridge, Wroxham, NR12 8RX.
Booking: 01603 782207/ info@broads.co.uk Suitable for all the family. Refreshments available. Dogs welcome on lead. A limited number of manual wheelchair users are welcome on all tours. Pre booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
www.broadstours.co.uk
Haunted River Tours in Norwich
Tours leave every half-hour from 7pm. Last tour 9pm
As your punt silently travels through the night, relax on one of our candle-lit boats and discover the frightening secrets that lay undisturbed beneath the streets of historic Norwich.
Cost: £7 adults, £6 concessions, £4 children.
Venue: Meet at the Punt Station, Norwich Punting Company, Friars Quay, Norwich, NR3 1ES.
Booking: info@norwichpunting.co.uk Children welcome. Dogs welcome on lead.
www.norwichpunting.co.uk
SUNDAY MAY 19
Wild Family Sunday at RSPB Strumpshaw Fen Reserve
11am – 3pm
Have a wild day out and get close to nature – pond-dipping, bug hunts and dissect an owl pellet plus join the wildlife quiz trail and see amazing moths.
Cost: Normal reserve entry costs (£3.50 adults, £1.50 children, £7 family; RSPB members free)
Venue: RSPB Strumpshaw Fen Nature Reserve, Low Road, Strumpshaw, NR13 4HS.
Booking: 01603 715191/ Strumpshaw@rspb.org.uk Booking essential. Refreshments available. Limited access for wheelchairs. No dogs.
www.rspb.org.uk/strumpshawfen
The Broads Green Boat and Tourism Show at Salhouse Broad
10am – 4pm
An event for all the family showcasing sustainable low carbon boating, green energy and environmentally-friendly practices with plenty of opportunities to get out on the water to try out canoeing, sailing and electric boating.
Cost: £7 per car (including entrance). Arrival by foot, bike, train or bus: £1.50. Moorings: £7 per boat (includes entrance). Electric Water Taxi from Wroxham – Salhouse: £8 return. All under 12s free.
Venue: Salhouse Broad. Access via car park on Lower Street, Salhouse, NR13 6RX.
Suitable for all the family. Disabled access.
www.broadsgreenboatshow.co.uk
Primula Walk at Fairhaven Woodland and Water Gardens
11am
A guided walk through the woodland garden to see 50,000 naturalised candelabra primulas at their prolific best.
Cost: Free with garden entry: £6 adult, £5.50 concessions, £3.50 child; under fives free, dogs 25p. Free to members. Special entry for RHS members £4.80.
Venue: Fairhaven Woodland and Water Gardens, School Road, South Walsham, NR13 6DZ.
Children welcome. Refreshments available. Dogs welcome on lead. Full access by wheelchair to all facilities, including gardens. Mobility scooter hire available. Hearing loop-in facilities and some Braille information points in garden.
www.fairhavengarden.co.uk
Afternoon Wherry sailing – Salhouse to Wroxham
An opportunity to spend an afternoon sailing on a 100 year old Wherry, learning about the history and importance of the Wherries for the Broads. Return land transport included.
Cost: £15 per person
Booking: 01603 781475/ bookings@wherryyachtcharter.org Booking essential. Refreshments available. Bring a picnic if you wish.
Let the Train Take the Strain
10.45am
Catch a train from Beccles to Oulton Broad and then walk back on the Angles Way with the River Waveney on one side and grazing marshland on the other, passing Carlton Marshes Reserve.
Cost: Free (plus train ticket)
Venue: Meet at Beccles railway station, Station Road, Beccles, NR34 9QJ.
Booking: Online at www.discoversuffolk.org.uk Children are welcome, but under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Bring a packed lunch. Dogs welcome on a lead
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