Discover the Norfolk Broads from Ormesby Manor

The Norfolk Broads is a landscape of winding rivers, open water, reed beds and wide Norfolk skies. Its waterways grew from medieval peat diggings that gradually flooded, creating the network of rivers and broads visitors enjoy today.

Set within the Broads National Park, Ormesby Manor offers a beautiful base for exploring this part of Norfolk. Spend a day on the water, enjoy a countryside walk or discover a village along the way, then return to the comfort and privacy of the Manor.

Explore the Broads by Boat

Hiring a day boat gives you the freedom to see the Broads at your own pace. Pack a picnic, share the journey with family or friends, and take time to enjoy the changing views along the river.

Phoenix Fleet offers day boat hire from Potter Heigham, while Bridgecraft has day boats available from Acle Bridge. Martham Boats is another option for day boat hire, as well as canoeing and kayaking on the quieter waterways around Martham.

If you would rather let someone else take the helm, Ross’ Wildlife Boat Trips runs guided trips from Martham Boatyard. It is a lovely way to experience the Broads while learning more about the wildlife that lives here.

Try Paddleboarding or Canoeing

For a more active day out, take to the water under your own steam. Go Paddle in Horning offers paddleboard hire and lessons, including options for beginners. Near Norwich, Whitlingham Adventure offers paddle craft hire and a range of activities on Whitlingham Great Broad.

Whether you are trying paddleboarding for the first time or already enjoy being on the water, it is a memorable way to experience the Broads. Check availability and booking arrangements with each provider before setting off, particularly during the warmer months.

Enjoy the Broads at Your Own Pace

You do not have to step aboard a boat to appreciate this landscape. Walk beside the water, stop at a local café or simply find somewhere to pause and watch the boats go by. A day exploring can be as full or as unhurried as you wish.

The nearby Norfolk coast offers even more to discover during your stay. You could spend one day on the Broads and the next beside the sea, with Ormesby Manor as your place to come together afterwards.

Luxury Accommodation in the Norfolk Broads

After a day out, Ormesby Manor offers somewhere special to return to. The Manor House, Well Lodge and shepherd’s huts provide accommodation across the estate, with room to enjoy time together and space to relax.

For family gatherings, group holidays and celebrations, exclusive private hire lets you make the estate your own. Share a meal, enjoy the grounds or unwind at HYDE Woodland Wellness before deciding where the next day will take you.

A Wedding Venue in the Norfolk Broads

The Broads also makes a beautiful setting for a wedding in Norfolk. Its waterways, countryside and nearby coast give visiting guests plenty to explore, turning a celebration into a stay they can savour.

At Ormesby Manor, couples can plan a wedding that feels personal to them, surrounded by private parkland with accommodation on the estate for their closest family and friends. Guests might enjoy a boat trip before the wedding, gather for the celebration and spend a slower morning together afterwards.

Five Fun Facts About the Norfolk Broads

1. There are more than 125 miles of navigable waterways to explore across the Broads.
2. Despite its name, the Broads spans two counties: Norfolk and Suffolk.
3. The landscape includes more than 60 broads and other areas of open water. Hickling Broad is one of the largest.
4. The Broads is home to Britain’s largest butterfly, the swallowtail. Keep an eye out for its striking yellow and black wings during the warmer months.
5. Part of the Broads reaches into Norwich. The stretch of the River Wensum running through the city makes Norwich the only English city with part of a national park within it.

Have a Question About Ormesby Manor?

From a quiet boat trip to an afternoon on a paddleboard, there are many ways to discover the Norfolk Broads. Or you may choose to stay at the Manor, enjoy the house and grounds, and leave exploring for another day. Whether you are planning a luxury break, a wedding or a private celebration, Ormesby Manor offers a setting where you can enjoy Norfolk at your own pace. Please get in touch with the team to discuss your stay or event.