Hickling Broad

Reedbeds, open water and wetland landscapes

Hickling Broad is the largest of the Norfolk Broads, forming an extensive area of shallow freshwater, reedbeds, marshes and wetland habitats within The Broads National Park. Situated near the village of Hickling, the broad is one of the most important natural landscapes in the Norfolk Broads, offering opportunities to explore the waterways, wildlife and open countryside of eastern Norfolk.

The broad forms part of a wider network of waterways and wetlands connected to the River Thurne. Its shallow waters are surrounded by extensive reedbeds, grazing marshes and areas of fen, creating a landscape that supports a remarkable variety of birds, plants and other wildlife. The surrounding countryside is characterised by open skies, low-lying fields and traditional Broadland villages.

Much of the area is protected within Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve, where visitors can explore marked nature trails, wildlife viewing areas and seasonal wetland habitats. The reserve is particularly well known for its birdlife, including marsh harriers, bitterns and other species associated with the reedbeds and freshwater marshes. Dragonflies, butterflies and wetland plants add to the natural interest throughout the warmer months.

Walking around Hickling Broad offers a different experience from the coastal paths of nearby Sea Palling and Horsey. Footpaths and nature trails pass through reedbeds, woodland and open marshland, with viewpoints across the water and opportunities to observe the changing landscape throughout the seasons. Access to some areas is managed to protect sensitive habitats, so visitors should follow designated routes and local guidance.

The nearby village of Hickling provides a starting point for exploring the broad and surrounding countryside. Farther east, the Norfolk coast offers sandy beaches, dunes and coastal walking routes, while Horsey Mere and the wider Norfolk Broads provide further opportunities to discover the region's waterways and wildlife.

For visitors exploring Hickling Broad and The Broads National Park, Dairy Barns offers accommodation in Hickling, providing a base for discovering the nearby nature reserve, Broadland villages and the Norfolk coast. From here, visitors can combine wetland walks and wildlife watching with visits to Sea Palling, Horsey and the surrounding countryside.