The Broads

The Norfolk Broads consists of a network comprising seven rivers and 63 lakes spread across 303 square kilometers of East Anglia.

Medieval peat extraction during the 12th century created deep pits that later flooded due to rising water levels, forming the current lake system.

The waterways became a center for recreational boating in the late 1800s, leading to the development of specialized yacht designs for shallow waters.

Visitors can rent boats from numerous operators in towns like Wroxham to explore over 200 kilometers of navigable waterways throughout the year.

The area contains Britain's largest protected wetland ecosystem, supporting rare species like the swallowtail butterfly and Norfolk hawker dragonfly.

Location: Norfolk

Location: Suffolk

Inception: 1988

Operator: The Broads Authority

Website: https://broads-authority.gov.uk

GPS coordinates: 52.72417,1.64083

Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:13