Norfolk Broads – Rivers, Reedbeds, and Open Wetland
Low-lying marshland, open water, and navigable rivers across The Broads National Park east of Norwich
The Norfolk Broads form the main part of The Broads National Park, an area of flat marshland, reedbeds, shallow lakes, and slow-moving rivers in the East of England. Walking routes follow the River Bure, River Yare, and River Waveney and connect Wherryman’s Way, Angles Way, and local floodbank paths, linking places such as Norwich, Wroxham, Acle, Potter Heigham, and Great Yarmouth along waterside tracks and grazing marsh.
Much of the terrain is level and soft underfoot. Grass floodbanks, earth tracks, boardwalks, and quiet lanes allow steady progress with minimal ascent, although surfaces can be muddy or waterlogged after rain and during winter.
The landscape shifts between areas. Broad grazing marsh and reedbeds dominate the river valleys, clusters of woodland and hedgerow appear around villages, and larger open broads and drainage dykes create wide views across low ground toward the coast.
Settlements are lightly spaced along the waterways, creating regular access points for short walks and longer linear routes without steep gradients or sustained climbs.
Trails and Routes Through the Norfolk Broads
Wherryman’s Way
A long-distance riverside route following the River Yare between Norwich and Great Yarmouth along grass floodbanks and waterside tracks.
Angles Way (northern sections)
A long-distance route linking Great Yarmouth with the Waveney Valley using floodbanks, field paths, and quiet countryside tracks.
Weaver’s Way (Broads sections)
Regional paths linking the Broads with the north Norfolk coast and inland market towns via marshland and rural tracks.
Bure Valley Path
A traffic-free path following the River Bure and the Bure Valley Railway between Wroxham and Aylsham.
Walking Character
• Flat marsh and floodplain ground
• Reedbeds and open water
• Grass floodbanks and boardwalks
• Quiet lanes and riverside tracks
• Wide horizons and big skies
• Small towns and waterside villages
• Level and waterside