5 of the prettiest villages to visit on the Norfolk Broads

Characterised by its serene beauty, the Broads offer a haven for boating enthusiasts and nature fans all year round. 

Here we take a look at some of the prettiest villages to visit on the Norfolk Broads.

1. Hickling

Hickling lies on the edge of one of the largest Broads in the county (Image: Newsquest)

Nicknamed "the heart of the Norfolk Broads", Hickling is a small village that sits on the edge of Hickling Broad which is a 1,500-acre conservation area and site of special scientific interest. 

There is a large nature reserve at Hickling which has a visitors centre and many branching footpaths to walk to see the sights.

As well as observation towers, bird hides and viewing platforms, there are plenty of places to spot the local wildlife or while away an afternoon with a picnic.

2. Ranworth

Ranworth enjoys a beautiful vantage over the River Bure (Image: Newsquest)

The postcard village of Ranworth prides itself on its free moorings, picturesque pub and situation on the River Bure. 

Ranworth has a wide range of different habitats and wildlife where visitors can spot kingfishers, terns and otters. 

There are also guided boat tours on Ranworth Broad or further afield to Cockshoot Broad or the historical St Benet's Abbey.

3. Irstead

Irstead lies on the doorstep of Barton Broad (Image: ANTONY KELLY)

Surrounded by water on two sides and almost cut off from the rest of Norfolk, Irstead lies on the doorstep of Barton Broad with its ancient woodlands and vast vistas. 

Visitors are encouraged to make good use of the Irstead Staithe Walk, which follows the boardwalk on a "mysterious journey of discovery into a lost world which has remained isolated for half a century". 

There are some great walks and cycle rides along the quiet country lanes nearby, with Neatishead and Barton Turf only a stone's throw away.

4. Thurne

Thurne's windmill dates back to the early 1800s (Image: Newsquest)

With its fairytale windmill which dates back to the early 1800s and a popular pub, Thurne is a must-see for tourists and locals alike. 

The popular Weavers Way passes through Thurne and runs 56 miles from Cromer to Great Yarmouth. 

There is also a bike hire centre in the next-door village of Clippesby which can be used to explore the wider Bure and Thurne rivers.

5. Reedham

Reedham has one of the country's last working railway swing bridges (Image: Newsquest)

Famous for having one of the last remaining railway swing bridges and chain ferries in the country, Reedham is a also boating and nature-watching hotspot. 

Near to the bridge is a pub, moorings and a campsite, and further inland is a store and fish and chip shop, making it complete with necessities and ideal for visiting families. 

The famous bridge was even featured in Michael Portillo's Great British Railways BBC TV programme in 2012.