Norfolk Broads is Britain’s biggest and best wetland area which has now been designated as a protected national park. Located on the east coast of England, the Norfolk Broads has long been a tourist hotspot with 125 miles of interconnecting waterways, making it popular for boating holidays. It is also home to many unique species of wildlife and fauna, while the flat landscape, ancient church spiers and historic windmills make it a unique holiday destination.
The Norfolk Broads came into being slowly when, back in the 12th century, locals began digging peat (or turban, as it was then called) out of the ground as a replacement for the dwindling supply of wood used for heating. While this was physically demanding work, the excess was sold off and the local area benefited from increased wealth. However, during the 14th century, as the sea level rose, the huge canals left behind after years of peat digging began to fill with seawater, until eventually peat digging was no longer possible. Little by little, people began to arrive in the area to spend their vacations by boat and that long tradition continues today.
Yacht charter in the Norfolk Broads has gained popularity because there are no locks to navigate and the cruise ships are easy to operate. You can charter a boat from 2 to 12 berths and each one will be well equipped for the duration of your getaway or vacation. Your vessel typically includes a galley kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and living room.
The Norfolk Broads is ideal for sailing, stopping at a seaside restaurant or town and then sailing again. Wroxham is often referred to as the capital of the Norfolk Broads, with its bustling town center and parade of shops. Nearby and worth a visit are Hoventon Hall Gardens, Bure Valley Steam Railway and Wroxham Barns. Further along, the village of Ranworth is home to the old Broads Cathedral, which has the finest medieval folding screens and the ancient book of psalms. The towns of Stalham and Sutton are famous for their windmills and the Broads Museum. At the junction of the River Bure and the River Thurne there are also numerous windmills. While the town of Ludham is home to St. Benets Abbey, once the richest Benedictine house in the country. There are many other delights to be found on a sailing holiday, however for the more energetic it also offers the opportunity to try other water sports such as sailing, canoeing, kayaking or windsurfing.