Top 20 Lakes in Broads
Best lakes in Broads are part of a unique network of interconnected rivers and shallow lakes located primarily in Norfolk and Suffolk. This area encompasses 303 square kilometers and over 200 kilometers of navigable waterways. The Broads were formed in medieval times by the flooding of peat excavations. Today, the region offers diverse wildlife and opportunities for recreation.
Best lakes in Broads
- The most popular lakes is Horsey Mere, a natural monument known for its reed beds and grazing marshes that provide an important habitat for various bird species. It offers a viewing area with benches and views over the Mere.
- Another must-see spot is Whitlingham Great Broad, a lake within Whitlingham Country Park. Visitors can enjoy water sports such as wild swimming and stand-up paddleboarding, or cycle along the shore.
- Visitors also love Breydon Water Nature Reserve, an other natural area and marshy expanse along the River Yare. This isolated area is managed as a nature reserve by the RSPB, attracting over 64,000 birds annually, especially in winter.
- Broads is known for its natural monuments, lakes, and other natural areas. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from wildlife havens to watersports destinations.
- The lakes in Broads are appreciated by the komoot community, with 18 upvotes and 6 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Breydon Water Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
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Thorpe Marshes Nature Reserve
Highlight • Lake
Close to the River Yare, the area is covered in wildflower marshes and dykes. You may spot dragonfly, damselfly and butterfly here, as well as many waterbirds.
Chinese water deer, and smaller Muntjac deer have also taken up residence.
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Ranworth Broad Village and Waterfront
Highlight • Rest Area
The village has moorings, a pub and village store and the church is known for exceptional views once you have climbed the tower, with a huge area of the Broads visible from the top.
The National Trust has a floating Broads Wildlife Centre that is reached by a boardwalk from the village and has a panoramic vista across the water.
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Horsey Mere
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Nicolas Everitt Park
Highlight • Cafe
Oulton Broad is known for its boating and watersports activities, and Nicolas Everitt Park is an excellent starting point for boaters to explore the surrounding waterways.
You can enjoy picnics in the park's open green spaces while overlooking the scenic views of Oulton Broad. There's also a cafe in the middle of the park.
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Popular around Broads
Norfolk Trails – long-distance walks
The Rebellion Way — all ability bikepacking in Norfolk
Wherryman's Way — Wildlife and windmills on waterside hike
Weavers' Way — Hike the rich and varied landscapes of Norfolk
The North Sea Coast Cycle Route — England
Norfolk Coast loop from Norwich – castle to coast
Enchanting family walks in the beautiful Broads National Park
A Walk in the Parks – across the Broads National Park
Windmills, wildlife and waterways – best walks in the Broads National Park
Golden autumn walks in the Broads National Park
Other adventures in Broads
Tips from the Community
Great little viewing area with a couple of benches and a great view over the Mere.
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Lovely park by the board, lots to do, including, tennis and children's play park.
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You can't see that much of the marshes from the road but the woods are very pleasant.
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Very scenic spot, ideal for a cafe stop. Granary Stores shop and cafe is open 8.30-9pm 7 days a week!
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Nicolas Everitt Park is a popular public park situated along the shores of Oulton Broad, a large body of water that forms part of the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads. Oulton Broad is known for its boating and watersports activities, and Nicolas Everitt Park is an excellent starting point for boaters to explore the surrounding waterways. You can enjoy picnics in the park's open green spaces while overlooking the scenic views of Oulton Broad. There's also a cafe in the middle of the park.
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Thorpe Marshes is a diverse habitat situated in Norwich, offering walkers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The marshes feature reed beds, wet meadows, and open water, which provide a home for a diverse range of bird species such as kingfishers, herons, and terns.
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Located on the edge of Norwich, Thorpe Marshes is a wonderful mixture of habitats in a nature reserve managed by Norfolk Wildlife Trust. Close to the River Yare, the area is covered in wildflower marshes and dykes. You may spot dragonfly, damselfly and butterfly here, as well as many waterbirds. Chinese water deer, and smaller Muntjac deer have also taken up residence.
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Ranworth is a picture postcard village in the heart of the Broads alongside Ranworth and Malthouse Broad just off the River Bure. The village has moorings, a pub and village store and the church is known for exceptional views once you have climbed the tower, with a huge area of the Broads visible from the top. The National Trust has a floating Broads Wildlife Centre that is reached by a boardwalk from the village and has a panoramic vista across the water. .
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can I see in the Broads?
The Broads are a haven for diverse wildlife. You can spot a wide array of birds, including marsh harriers, bitterns, common cranes, wigeon, teal, shoveler, and even rare species like Cetti's and Savi's warblers. The area is also known for the rare swallowtail butterfly. Horsey Mere and Breydon Water Nature Reserve are particularly excellent for birdwatching, especially in winter when thousands of ducks, geese, and swans arrive.
Which lakes are best for birdwatching in the Broads?
For exceptional birdwatching, visit Horsey Mere, known for its reed beds and grazing marshes that attract various bird species. Breydon Water Nature Reserve is another crucial stop for large flocks of migratory birds, with over 64,000 birds visiting annually. Hickling Broad, the largest of the Broads, is also a significant wildlife haven and part of a National Nature Reserve, offering opportunities to see marsh harriers and common cranes.
Are there good walking trails around the Broads lakes?
Yes, the Broads offer numerous walking opportunities. You can find easy hikes like the 'Whitlingham Broad – family walks in the Broads' or the 'Ranworth loop'. Many trails provide scenic views along the water's edge, such as the cycle path around Whitlingham Great Broad. For more options, explore the easy hikes in Broads guide.
What water sports can I do in the Broads?
The Broads are ideal for various water sports. Whitlingham Great Broad is a popular spot for wild swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. Oulton Broad, located in Suffolk, is also known for boating and other water activities, serving as a popular starting point for exploring the waterways.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities in the Broads?
Absolutely. Many areas in the Broads are family-friendly. Ranworth Broad Village and Waterfront offers moorings, a pub, and a floating Broads Wildlife Centre accessible via a boardwalk. Nicolas Everitt Park on Oulton Broad provides green spaces for picnics and a great play area for children. Horsey Mere is also considered family-friendly, and Whitlingham Great Broad is perfect for family walks and water sports.
How were the Broads lakes formed?
The Broads are not natural lakes but were formed in medieval times. They are the result of the flooding of peat excavations, which were dug for fuel. Over centuries, these flooded pits created the unique network of interconnected rivers and shallow lakes we see today.
Can I go cycling near the lakes in the Broads?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. A cycle path leads along the water's edge through peaceful nature at Whitlingham Great Broad. For more extensive routes, you can explore the gravel biking in Broads guide or the MTB Trails in Broads guide, which include routes like the 'Norwich station to Whitlingham Country Park and the Rockland Marshes'.
Are there places to eat or relax near the Broads lakes?
Many villages and parks near the Broads offer amenities. Ranworth Broad Village and Waterfront has a pub, a village store, and a cafe. Nicolas Everitt Park on Oulton Broad also features a cafe and green spaces for picnics. You'll often find public benches and picnic tables in scenic spots.
What is the best time of year to visit the Broads?
The Broads offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are popular for boating and enjoying the lush greenery. Autumn provides stunning colors, and winter is particularly spectacular for birdwatching, as thousands of wintering ducks, geese, and swans arrive at the estuaries and marshes, especially at Breydon Water Nature Reserve.
Are the Broads lakes dog-friendly?
Many areas in the Broads are dog-friendly. For example, Horsey Mere is listed as dog-friendly, offering a great place to explore with your canine companion. It's always a good idea to keep dogs on a lead, especially in nature reserves, to protect wildlife.
Are there any unique historical sites or landmarks around the Broads?
Yes, the Broads region has several notable landmarks. The iconic Horsey Windpump, restored by the National Trust, stands on the banks of Horsey Mere, offering extensive views from its top. St. Helen's Church in Ranworth, known as the 'Cathedral of the Broads,' also provides exceptional views from its tower across a huge area of the Broads.
Which lake is considered one of the most picturesque?
Salhouse Broad is often described as one of the most picturesque settings in the region, offering a peaceful environment for enjoying nature. Horsey Mere is also regarded as one of the most beautiful of the northern broads.
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