In my post Things to do on the Norfolk Broads Part 1, I told you about getting on the water, Horsey Water Pump, enjoying a day in Great Yarmouth and fishing on the Broads.
In this second post of the series, I will give you some more fun ideas to keep you entertained whilst enjoying this beautiful part of the UK.
Try out the pub grub
There are many great pubs to visit on the Norfolk Broads and there are a handful that we visit each time we visit, it’s like a family tradition! If you’ve had a busy day of sailing, fishing or shopping then stop off at one of these pubs for some great pub grub and a refreshing drink.
Our favourites include the Pleasureboat Inn at the end of Hickling Broad and The Lion in West Somerton where we always have friendly service and good grub! Most pubs serve an inclusive menu with gluten-free, vegetarian and some vegan options which is a bonus.
Enjoy the wildlife
Along with the amazing array of fish you can find in the depths of the Broads including perch and pike, there are 230 nationally important invertebrates which you can spot whilst sailing on the water or just relaxing next to it.Some of the wildlife you can spot include Britain’s largest butterfly, the swallowtail and the rare Norfolk hawker dragonfly.
Harvest mice and water shrews live in the fens and, if you’re lucky, you may spot an otter (my dad saw one this year!) There are many birds around the Broads including the more common ducks and geese as well as bitterns, cranes, marsh harriers, barn owls, kingfishers and birds of prey.
Go Shopping at Wroxham Barns
Wroxham Barns is Norfolk’s award-winning visitor attraction set in the stunning countryside close to the Broads. The Barns are made up of a collection of small, local talented craftspeople who create all manner of unique gifts, craft supplies, jewellery, stylish clothes to fun toys and delicious foods. There is also a Junior Farm and Funfair to entertain the kids.
Our favourite shops include The Norfolk Cider Shop, Pat’s Wooden Crafts & Engraving and Broadly Patchwork. We always come away with a generous amount of Norfolk Cider and this year I treated myself to a lovely Cross Stitch Sampler Kit that I look forward to doing soon. My mum bought a lovely handcrafted set of wooden dice, dominoes and playing cards.
Enjoy a slower pace of life
Although we as a family like to plan lots of activities into our holidays on the Norfolk Broads there is also a lot to be said for just relaxing and taking it easy! When packing I always like to take along some simple activities which I can do at the cottage or perhaps on a boat as we motor along the river!
I usually take some crafty goods along to keep me entertained while taking it easy such as yarn and crochet hooks (this year I worked on 2 baby blankets for my husband’s cousin as well as his half-brother both of whom are expecting babies!), colouring in books and colouring in pens as well as some cross stitch/ embroidery.
This year we also enjoyed playing with my mum’s set of wooden dice, dominoes and playing cards outside in the sun one afternoon as we watched the boats sail past. This is definitely the place to get away from the rat race!
Have you been to the Norfolk Broads? Let me know below.
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