We love Easter on the Norfolk Broads. There’s a gentle buzz of excitement in the air as holidaymakers and wildlife return to these peaceful southern rivers.
Reed cutting season has ended, and short green reed shoots and other wetland plants are emerging. Marsh marigolds and colt’s-foot bring a splash of yellow.
Did you know that April is one of the best times of year to hear the dawn chorus? The trees are filled with birds arriving, like sedge and reed warblers.
The best way to catch a glimpse of the wildlife is by boat. Book a week-long boating holiday and explore the twists and turns of the river and broads. Or hire a day boat, pack a picnic, and relax for a few hours.
You can access all 10 locations listed by boat or from Brundall.
Top 10 things to see and do at Easter on the Norfolk Broads
1. Enjoy street food at Broom
Join us in Brundall marina Wednesday 13th April from 6pm for our first food event of the 2022 calendar. Enjoy riverside views at our café while tucking into a burger or stack provided by Ginger Lily. Pre-booking is essential, follow us on Facebook for the full menu.
2. Hire a day boat
If you’re not with us for a boating holiday this Easter you can still hire a day boat and get out on the river. There’s plenty to see and do from Brundall. Norwich is just 2 hours upstream, or head down stream to Reedham.
View insider tips on where to go on a day boat
3. Visit a nature reserve
There are many nature reserves with various fen and marsh walks in the Southern Norfolk Broads. Sturdy walking boots or wellies are advisable as many areas can become quite muddy. Don’t forget to also bring a waterproof coat in case of April showers.
4. Discover Somerleyton
This impressive Victorian Stately home is flanked by what is considered one of the finest gardens in East Anglia. You can moor at Somerleyton Staithe, overlooking one of the last remaining swing bridges on the Norfolk Broads.
Visit between the 15th and 18th of April and join in their Easter egg hunt. Seek out eggs left by the Somerleyton bunny while exploring their beautiful gardens (booking required).
Visit Somerleyton Hall website
5. Pond dipping & easter egg hunt at Strumpshaw Fen
Eggs will be popping up all over the reserve between the 2nd and 19th of April. Along the way, discover other Easter activities, including egg decorating or have a go at pond dipping. There’s no need to book, but entry fees apply.
6. Visit historic Norwich
There are plenty of things to do in Norwich, including shopping, a trip to the cinema, or the puppet theatre. You can also visit one of the many historic landmarks, including the castle and cathedral.
It takes around 2 hours to get from Brundall to Norwich yacht station, passing through some of the Norfolk Broads’ most picturesque stretches of river.
7. Try something new at Whitlingham Country Park
There are lovely walks all around the park, and it’s a good place for cycling too. There’s a wheelchair-accessible path around the Great Broad (about 2 miles / 3 km). The park’s Outdoor Education Centre (fully accessible) offers a programme of adventurous outdoor activities.
8. Visit Reedham
Reedham is around 2 hours by boat from Brundall. The Quay was once a local boatbuilding hub, and a statue commemorates this important time in Norfolk Broads history. On the way to Reedham, you’ll pass by Coldham Hall, Rockland, and Cantley.
9. Visit Beccles and take in the Broads from a different angle
One of the historical landmarks of this market town is the Bell Tower. At 97 ft tall, it stands detached from the main body of the church, offering spectacular views across the surrounding countryside.
Climb the 100 steps to the top and enjoy spectacular views across the Waveney Valley and towards Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft. Open from Easter Saturday, weather permitting.
10. Live music & beer festival at Locks Inn
This riverside pub has undergone renovation since being taken over as a community-run pub in 2021. Visit over the Easter bank holiday for live music, BBQ, and fun for the kids.
Please visit location or event websites to check opening times and restrictions.
