Matham Broad

Reeds rustle in the breeze as you peer across this proper slice of the Norfolk Broads, where water meets sky in that particular flat-horizon way that makes East Anglia so distinctive. Matham Broad sits quietly between Hickling and Horsey, part of the upper reaches of this watery wonderland that draws visitors from across the country.

Birdwatchers will have a field day here - the reed beds and open water attract everything from marsh harriers swooping overhead to the smaller warblers that dart between the stems. Walking the footpaths that skirt the broad, you'll likely spot herons standing motionless in the shallows, waiting for an unwary fish.

The broad connects to the wider Broads network, so you might catch sight of the occasional sailing boat or motor cruiser making its way through. It's less crowded than some of the bigger broads closer to Great Yarmouth, which means you can actually hear the wildlife rather than engine noise.

Families staying at nearby spots like Clippesby Hall or the holiday parks around Hemsby will find this makes for a lovely morning out, though bring wellies if it's been wet - the paths can get properly muddy. Allow a couple of hours if you want to walk the full circuit and actually stop to watch the birds rather than just march past them.