Salhouse Broad

Overview
Nestled among the trees close to the heart of the Norfolk Broads is one of the most scenic broads you will come across during your holiday here. Not only does it offer plenty of moorings for boats visiting via the River Bure but there are plenty of free parking spaces at the main car park, which is where you will find the entrance to the scenic woodland walk. Enjoy a calming stroll through the trees and choose between two routes, one that continues with trees on either side or a boardwalk, which will take you close to the water, giving you your first view of the broad.

No matter which one you decide to take, you will soon find yourself on the edge of the water, looking out onto the entire broad with trees lining the distant shore. Every now and then you may see a boat pass through a gap in the trees, as it makes its way along the River Bure. There is a small beach leading into the water and a grassy hill leading up to the fields above. It’s the perfect spot for those summer picnics and maybe even a bit of sunbathing too.

The trail continues from here a little further along the edge of the broad. Pass under trees along another boardwalk and you will come to an open area with a children’s play area and also moorings for visiting boats.

Location
Salhouse Broad is 7.7 miles from the centre of Norwich and only 2.7 miles by road from Wroxham.

Attractions
The beautiful broad itself is obviously the main attraction here but there are also many lovely places nearby to visit. Hoveton Great Broad can be found right across the water and if you head upstream, you will come to Wroxham Broad where you may be lucky enough to see a yacht race. Salhouse Village is very peaceful and a great place to visit if you fancy an extended walk after experiencing a woodland stroll.

There ia an excellent pub up the road from the car park called the Fur & Feather Inn which offers very good food and a good selection of local ales from the nearby Woodfords brewery

If you head in the opposite direction, you will come to the village of Woodbastwick and a little further on, Ranworth Village. This is where Malthouse Broad is located and the popular Ranworth Broad Nature Reserve. This lovely reserve offers another stunning woodland walk and great views of the water, which is closed off to boats, helping to maintain its natural appearance.

Activities
Once you’ve experienced the calming walk through the trees at Salhouse Broad, why not take to the water by hiring a canoe or kayak. This is a great way to get close to nature and explore the broad with an unobstructed view of your surroundings. Stay close to the shore or head out to the other side to see what kinds of wildlife you can spot. There are plenty of fish beneath the glistening blue water and if you keep your eyes on the shore and the sky, you’ll no doubt see some of the many bird species that live in the area. If you’re really lucky you may even see an otter!

Hoveton Great Broad is hidden behind the trees to the northern end of Salhouse Broad and although it is closed to boat traffic, you can still see its natural beauty by following the nature trail. To access it, you will need to take the ferry that runs from Salhouse Broad to the woodland shore on the opposite side next to the River Bure. From here you can start the guided walk that will take you through the trees and onto the edge of Hoveton Great Broad Itself. It’s the perfect place to stop for a while, as you enjoy the views.

If you want to venture a little further afield without having to take the car, why not hire a bike and explore on two wheels. It’s the ideal activity for the whole family, as kids bikes are available too.

Parking
At the entrance to the Salhouse Broad walking trail is a large car park, offering plenty of space and best of all it’s completely free! You’ll find it just off the Salhouse Road, as you pass through the village and it’s signposted, so keep a look out to your left. It’s big enough for larger vehicles too but it can get fairly muddy, so take care.

Experience the beautiful Salhouse walking trail and broad for yourself by booking one of our cottages or lodges on the Norfolk Broads online or call us direct on 01252 339020.