Accommodation Guide: Norfolk Broads

Finding Your Stay

Boating & Waterside Stays

Houseboats & Cruisers
Experience the Broads directly from the water.
Riverside Cottages
Enjoy tranquil views and direct water access.
Hotels & Guesthouses
Various options for comfort by the waterways.
Holiday Parks
Family-friendly parks with amenities.

Booking Your Accommodation

Booking.com
Global platform for diverse options.
Agoda
Strong for Asian markets, also UK stays.
IHG Hotels
Specific hotel chains for varied budgets.
Vrbo
Vacation rentals for independent travelers.

Accommodation Considerations

Budget & Style

Cost-Friendly Choices

Hostels: Simple, communal lodging for budget travelers. (Hostelworld)
Camping: Connect with nature at designated campsites.
B&Bs: Personal touch at a lower price point.
Self-catering cottages: Value for groups or longer stays.

Luxury & Unique Stays

Boutique Hotels: Upscale comfort with unique character.
Exclusive Riverside Properties: Private moorings and views.
Luxury Houseboats: High-end amenities on the water.
Spa Resorts: Relaxation and premium services.

Group & Family Needs

Family-Friendly

Holiday Parks: Activities for children.
Cottages with gardens: Space for play.
Interconnecting hotel rooms: Larger family accommodation.
Houseboats with multiple cabins: Privacy for larger families.

Pet-Friendly Options

Many holiday rentals: Often welcome pets.
Specific hotels/B&Bs: Check policies for pet stays.
Riverside properties: Direct access for pet walks.
Designated campsites: Pet zones available.

Duration & Purpose

Short Stays 1-3 nights

Hotels or Guesthouses: Quick and easy.
B&Bs: Local experience.
Small houseboats: Taster trips.
Glamping pods: Unique short-stay options.

Longer Stays 4+ nights

Holiday Cottages: Home-like comfort.
Extended Boat Hire: Explore more waterways.
House Sitting: Free accommodation for care. (TrustedHousesitters)
Vacation Rentals: Self-catering convenience.

Specialized Accommodation

House Sitting

Care for homes and pets in exchange for free accommodation.

Unique Stays

Explore historic inns, converted mills, or floating homes for distinct experiences.

Getting Around the Broads

The Norfolk Broads offers several ways to navigate its unique landscape, both on and off the water.

Water Travel

Boat Hire: The most authentic way to explore the waterways.
Day Boats: For shorter excursions.
Moorings: Designated spots for overnight stays.
Water Taxis: Limited services for specific routes.

Land Travel

Car: Convenient for reaching different towns and trailheads.
Cycling: Many routes offer scenic views.
Walking: Explore riverside paths and nature trails.
Public Transport: Bus and limited train services connect towns.

Navigation & Routes

Waterway Information

Speed limits apply on all Broads waterways.
Check bridge heights and tide times.
Navigation markers identify safe channels.
Respect private moorings and property.

Land Routes

Maps for walking and cycling trails.
Signposted routes vary in difficulty.
Footpaths may be uneven or muddy.
Consider local terrain before setting out.

Getting to the Broads

By Car

Main routes via A47, A11, and A140 into Norwich and surrounding areas.

By Train

Direct rail services to Norwich from London and other major cities.

By Air

Norwich International Airport (NWI) and London airports offer connections.

Transport and Accessibility

Accessibility around the Norfolk Broads varies depending on the mode of transport and specific locations.

Boat Accessibility

Boat Features

Some boat hire companies offer vessels with ramps or wider access points.

Check specific boat layouts.
Enquire about accessible toilets.
Consider single-level designs.
Book in advance for specialized boats.

Moorings

Some public moorings have easier access for embarking and disembarking.

Look for level access points.
Slipways vary in steepness.
Assistance may be needed at some locations.
Private moorings might have different facilities.

Land-Based Accessibility

Footpaths & Trails

Many popular walking paths may have uneven surfaces, stiles, or steps.

Identify accessible routes.
Utilize boardwalks where present.
Look for mobility-friendly paths.
Use suitable footwear for varied terrain.

Public Transport

Buses and trains offer varying degrees of accessibility for passengers.

Check service provider websites for accessibility info.
Some stations have step-free access.
Accessible taxis might be available.
Pre-book assistance if required.

Accessible Boat Hire

Specific Boats
Companies may offer specific boats modified for wheelchair users or reduced mobility.
Assistance
Crew or staff may assist with boarding and navigating on some vessels.
Contact Providers
Reach out directly to hire companies for detailed accessibility information.
Advance Booking
Essential for securing specialized accessible boats.

Information for Disabled Visitors

Broads Authority Resources
The Broads Authority provides specific accessibility guides and maps.
Local Tourism Sites
Check official tourism websites for updated accessibility information.
Direct Contact
Contact attractions or service providers directly for detailed access notes.
Accessible Toilets
Locations of accessible facilities are often listed in visitor guides.

Planning Your Accessible Trip

Considerations

Research specific attractions and their accessibility features.

Check entrance types and ramp access.
Look for accessible toilet facilities.
Confirm availability of disabled parking.
Enquire about concessionary rates.

Route Planning for Mobility

Utilize online maps and guides that highlight accessible paths and points of interest.

Prioritize routes with paved or well-maintained gravel surfaces.
Be aware of any inclines or steep sections that might pose challenges.
Plan for frequent rest points and benches along your chosen routes.
Consider hiring all-terrain mobility scooters for some paths.

Accommodation Guide