River Waveney

The Waveney isn't one of England's showpiece rivers, but that's rather the point. East of Norwich, this quiet waterway marks the border between Norfolk and Suffolk, and it's the sort of place where you actually notice the light on the water instead of craning your neck at some famous viewpoint.

What you get here is walking, mostly. The riverbanks are accessible in stretches, particularly around the market towns and villages that line it - Bungay and Earsham are good entry points if you're exploring from Norwich. The river itself is slow-moving, reedy in parts, and genuinely peaceful. Birdwatchers rate it highly. The water's dark and reflective, the banks dotted with willows. It's not dramatic, but it works.

For families with young children, honestly, it depends on temperament. If your kids are happy mucking about by water and spotting dragonflies, you'll have a decent few hours. Older children who need constant activity will likely fidget. Serious walkers and nature enthusiasts - particularly those interested in wetland ecology and bird migration - will find real value in spending time here.

The beauty of basing yourself at Arthur's Retreat or Applewood Countryside Holidays is that the Waveney fits naturally into a broader Norfolk break. You're not making a special trip to see the river; you're walking it while staying put, which is how it should be experienced. Free to access, no opening hours nonsense. Allow a couple of hours for a decent walk, more if you're photographing or bird-spotting.