Wroxham Broad

The water stretches out grey-blue and proper wide when you first arrive at Wroxham Broad - it's the kind of Norfolk lake that makes you understand why people come here year after year. You can walk the perimeter, rent a boat, or simply sit with a coffee and watch the sailing boats drift past. It's busy on weekends, especially summer, which means crowds but also life and energy along the waterfront.

For families with kids, a half-day here works well. The town of Wroxham itself has shops and cafes dotted along the water's edge, so you're not stuck with nowhere to eat or get supplies. Walkers will appreciate the paths around the broad - nothing strenuous, mostly flat Norfolk terrain. If you're into sailing or have any interest in boats, this is where you'll spend hours. The rowing clubs and hire businesses keep things lively.

Being just outside Wroxham, it slots easily into a caravan or motorhome holiday across the Norfolk Broads region. The Norfolk Broads Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite sits only 4 miles away, making it a short drive from base if you're staying at one of the parks like Willowcroft or Dilham Hall Retreats. It's free to visit the broad itself - you just pay for boat hire or meals if you fancy them. Allow a couple of hours minimum, longer if you're the type who gets drawn into watching the water and the light changing.

Worth doing? Yes, if you're in the area. Don't make it a special trip from miles away, but if you're doing the Broads properly, you can't skip it.