3-Day Itinerary

Follow our carefully planned 3-day route to experience the best of the Norfolk Broads. This itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors and includes a mix of boating, wildlife watching, and exploring charming villages.

Day 1: Wroxham to Horning

Illustrated route map showing Day 1 boat journey from Wroxham to Horning via River Bure, 8 miles distance marked with directional arrows

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Start: Collect your boat from Wroxham (the 'Capital of the Broads')

  • Complete boat briefing and safety check (30 minutes)
  • Stock up on supplies at local shops if needed
  • Begin your journey heading towards Salhouse Broad

Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • 12:30 PM: Arrive at Salhouse Broad - perfect spot for lunch
  • 2:00 PM: Continue to Hoveton Great Broad Nature Reserve
  • 3:00 PM: Stop for wildlife watching - look for kingfishers and marsh harriers
  • 4:00 PM: Navigate to Horning
  • 5:00 PM: Moor at Horning for the evening
Peaceful early morning boat mooring area in Norfolk Broads with wildflowers along the bank, wooden jetty extending into calm reflective water, single boat tied up creating sense of tranquility

Evening (5:00 PM onwards)

Traditional Norfolk thatched-roof pub beside Broads waterway with boats moored outside, summer afternoon golden hour lighting, welcoming atmosphere
  • Explore the charming village of Horning
  • Visit local pubs and restaurants
  • Enjoy a peaceful evening on the water
  • Wildlife tip: Early evening is great for spotting otters near the village

Distance covered: Approximately 6 miles

Highlights: First taste of Broads navigation, Salhouse Broad, Horning village

Day 2: Horning to Ranworth

Illustrated route map showing Day 2 boat journey from Horning to Ranworth Broad via River Bure with wildlife icons and nature reserve highlights marked

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

  • 9:00 AM: Depart Horning after breakfast
  • 9:30 AM: Navigate through the beautiful Bure Valley
  • 10:30 AM: Arrive at Ranworth Broad
  • 11:00 AM: Visit Ranworth Broad Nature Reserve
  • 11:30 AM: Walk the boardwalk trail (perfect for families)

Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • 12:30 PM: Lunch on board or at Ranworth village
  • 2:00 PM: Visit St. Helen's Church (known as the 'Cathedral of the Broads')
  • 3:00 PM: Explore Malthouse Broad
  • 4:00 PM: Moor at Ranworth for the evening
  • 4:30 PM: Optional: Visit the local pub or enjoy quiet time on the water

Evening (5:00 PM onwards)

  • Relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings
  • Wildlife watching from your boat
  • Wildlife tip: Ranworth is excellent for bird watching - bring binoculars!

Distance covered: Approximately 4 miles

Highlights: Ranworth Broad Nature Reserve, boardwalk trail, St. Helen's Church, excellent bird watching

Day 3: Ranworth to Wroxham (Return)

Illustrated route map showing Day 3 return circular journey from Ranworth to Wroxham via alternative scenic path through Wroxham Broad, completing 3-day boat trip

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

  • 9:00 AM: Early morning wildlife watching (best time for otters!)
  • 9:30 AM: Depart Ranworth
  • 10:30 AM: Stop at Hoveton Great Broad for final wildlife viewing
  • 11:30 AM: Begin return journey to Wroxham

Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM)

  • 12:30 PM: Lunch stop at a quiet mooring spot
  • 1:30 PM: Continue towards Wroxham
  • 2:30 PM: Final opportunity for photos and wildlife spotting
  • 3:30 PM: Arrive back at Wroxham
  • 4:00 PM: Return boat and complete check-out

Optional Extensions

  • If you have extra time, consider visiting Potter Heigham or exploring the River Ant
  • Visit Wroxham's shops and cafes before heading home
  • Take a final walk along the riverbank

Distance covered: Approximately 5 miles

Highlights: Final wildlife opportunities, return journey, Wroxham village

Itinerary Tips

Navigation

  • Take your time - there's no rush
  • Use the provided maps and navigation guides
  • Watch for speed limits and mooring restrictions
  • Ask locals for advice if unsure

Wildlife Viewing

  • Early morning and late evening are best
  • Keep noise levels down
  • Bring binoculars
  • Be patient - wildlife appears when least expected

Safety

  • Always wear life jackets when appropriate
  • Check weather forecasts
  • Have emergency contact numbers handy
  • Follow all safety briefings

Flexibility

  • This itinerary is a guide - adapt to your preferences
  • Weather may affect plans - have alternatives ready
  • Take breaks when needed
  • Enjoy the journey, not just the destinations

What to Bring

Essential Items:

  • Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Comfortable, non-slip footwear
  • Binoculars for wildlife watching
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
  • First aid kit
  • Maps and navigation guides
  • Food and drinks (or plan stops at villages)
  • Binoculars and bird identification guide

Ready to Start Your Adventure?

Book your boat hire and follow this itinerary for an unforgettable Norfolk Broads experience.

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