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Norfolk Broads

norfolk broads short visit tolls

  • 1.1 History
  • 1.2 Landscape
  • 1.3.1 Invasive species
  • 1.4 Climate
  • 1.5 Regions
  • 1.6 Trinity Broads
  • 1.8 Staithe
  • 1.9 Norfolk Wherry
  • 3.2 Fishing
  • 4 Get around
  • 6.1 Canoeing
  • 6.2 Walking
  • 6.3 Boating
  • 10.1 Lodging
  • 10.2 Camping
  • 11 Stay safe

norfolk broads short visit tolls

The Norfolk Broads (also commonly referred to as The Broads ) is an historic and scenic area in the east of the English county of Norfolk , close to the Suffolk border and also extending into that county. It consists of a network of mostly navigable rivers, lakes and marshes. A large portion of the Broads now falls within the irregular boundaries of the Broads National Park .

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

For many years the broads were regarded as natural features of the landscape. It was only in the 1960s that Dr Joyce Lambert proved that they were artificial features, the effect of flooding on early peat excavations.

The Romans first exploited the rich peat beds of the area for fuel, and in the Middle Ages the local monasteries began to excavate the peat lands as a business, selling fuel to Norwich and Great Yarmouth. Then the sea levels began to rise, and the pits began to flood. Despite the construction of windpumps and dykes, the flooding continued and resulted in the typical Broads landscape of today, with its reed beds, grazing marshes and wet woodland.

Landscape [ edit ]

The Broads largely follows the line of the rivers and natural navigations of the area. There are seven navigable rivers, the River Yare and its (direct and indirect) tributaries the Rivers Bure, Thurne, Ant, Waveney, Chet and Wensum.

The broads range in size from small pools to the large expanses of Hickling Broad, Barton Broad and Breydon Water. The broads are unevenly distributed, with far more broads in the northern half of Broadland (the Rivers Bure, Thurne and Ant) than in the central and southern portions (the Rivers Yare, Waveney, Chet and Wensum).

Some of the larger broads form nationally important freshwater marshes.

Flora and fauna [ edit ]

norfolk broads short visit tolls

The Broads are a very important remnant of the wetlands that once dominated much of the East Anglia . A number of species found here are very scarce in the United Kingdom and even found nowhere else.

The birdlife is especially popular with visitors and specialist broadland species include bittern, which you are more likely to hear than see - they're secretive and well-camouflaged among the reeds, but make a very characteristic 'booming' call which carries quite far and sounds more mechanical than natural. Also look out marsh harrier and bearded tit.

The spectacular yellow and black swallowtail butterfly is found at many locations in the Broads, but nowhere else in the whole of the UK.

Invasive species [ edit ]

The Broads waterways are starting to suffer from increasing threats from invasive species. Of particular concern are 'killer shrimp' ( dikerogammarus villosus ), mink and signal crayfish as well as a number of invasive plant species: Australian swamp stonecrop, Himalayan balsam, floating pennywort, giant hogweed, Himalayan balsam, Japanese knotweed and parrot's feather. For further information see Broads Authority Invasive Species . The Broads Authority have published a leaflet to improve public awareness and outlining specific steps anglers, boaters, canoeists, kayakers and windsurfers should take to prevent spreading these invaders Broads Authority Advice on preventing spread of invasive species [dead link] .

Climate [ edit ]

Being in East Anglia the Broads enjoy a drier climate than the more western parts of the UK. Winter temperatures range 1-7°C and typically have 10 rain days a month. In summer Jul & Aug range 12-21°C with 9 rain days each month. Winter sunshine hours per month can be as low as 60 hr in Jan but improve to over 200 hr in July. Detailed information can be found on the UK Met Office Norwich Climate page or UK Met Office East of England Climate page .

Regions [ edit ]

Although the Broads are a single area under control of a single authority, people often consider the area split into two regions: the Northern Broads and the Southern Broads. The Northern Broads are Rivers Bure, Ant and Thurne and many of the more famous Broads (Wroxham broad, Hickling Broad, Horsey Mere, Salhouse Broad, etc.) whilst the Southern Broads comprise Rivers Wensum, Yare, Chet and Waveney and include Breydon Water and Oulton Broad. Northern Broads can be busier as most tourists seem to focus more on that area.

Trinity Broads [ edit ]

Slightly separate from the main "Broads" everybody knows are 5 broads on a tributary of the River Bure but with no navigable link to the river nor to the main Broads network. The Trinity Broads comprise 3 larger broads (Rollesby Broad, Ormesby Broad and Filby Broad) and 2 smaller broads (Lily Broad and Ormesby Little Broad). The area has been classified as an area of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and recreational access to the area is strictly limited and controlled.

Access [ edit ]

Some broads are not connected to the main river network and thus there is no navigation access. A surpassing number of broads are under private ownership and recreational navigation is barred or restricted. Historically broads were considered part of the King's river and thus free access to all was permitted. However in the 19th century some private landowners used the Inclosures Act to block public access to broads they owned. Prominent local boatbuilder Herbert Woods lead access campaigns and in 1949 held a organised trespass into Hoveton Little Broad (Black Horse Broad), dismantling the barriers blocking Black Horse Dyke access to the broad. The protest resulted in the landowner agreeing to public access through parts of the year (Easter to mid-Sept) but other landowners and closed broads did not allow access. Many will be familiar with the name Herbert Woods from the boat hire company based in Potter Heigham .

Today the Broads Authority are starting to talk to landowners of closed broads with a view to greater public access (focusing on 9 linked but closed broads). Hoveton Great Broad is receiving particular focus as significant public funding is being provided for restoration works.

Staithe [ edit ]

Predominantly used in the Northeast and East of the UK, the term "Staithe" or "Staith" means a wharf of quay. More northern areas tend to use Staith (from the Anglo-Saxon) whilst to the south Staithe (with an "e"), from the Danish spelling, is used. Across the Broads area the word will be seen all over the place, house names, street names, place names and even some wharfs and quays!

Norfolk Wherry [ edit ]

norfolk broads short visit tolls

Visitors to the area might notice quite a few "names" incorporating the word "Wherry" e.g. Wherryman's Way footpath, pub names, street names, beers, house names. The word is referring to the Norfolk Wherry, a water craft used for trade and passengers around the broads. Over time the design of the craft varied and to an extent the design and size depended on the waters they were used on but they had a gaff rigged sail with the mast well forward in the hull. Later wherries were around 50 ft long and able to carry 30 tons of cargo. Wherries first came into use in the early 1600s, the last one being built in the early 1900s. There are 8 surviving wherries on the broads, some can be sailing around the broads.

In the era when the broads and associated river network were used to transport goods, (some) wherry operators were not adverse to a bit of smuggling (carrying a couple of barrels of smuggled French brandy would give higher profits than carrying 40 tons of coal). The practice developed where a rapid system of warning signalling evolved using the water pumping windmills. When customs inspections were suspected, a wherry would send a runner to the nearest mill who would then fix their sails in a diagonal orientation (St Andrew's Cross). Neighbouring mills would see this signal and position their sails in the same orientation (the sending mill then resuming normal operations). The signalling system allowed warnings to be sent fast over great distances (it is said to have taken less than 15 min for such a signal to pass from Yarmouth to Horsey). Wherrymen seeing the warning would then sink their illicit cargoes marking the spot with floats made of reeds. The sunken cargos were later picked-up by the mill operators (marshmen) and the profits would be split. The mills were then used to pass an all clear signal by orienting their sails in a horizontal/vertical (St George's Cross) orientation. Despite the warning systems, wherrymen were caught and one is said to have been sentenced to 4 years hard labour and confiscation of his craft (though his friends were quicker than the authorities and sunk the craft in a broad, and when it was raised after the sentence was completed the cargo was still intact).

Get in [ edit ]

Map

Many will enter the Broads through Norwich which has good rail, road and air links. Drivers generally head for Norwich and then turn E on the A47 to S of Norwich, avoiding the city itself. The Broads are well signposted from the A47 E of Norwich . The Broads are between 5 and 20 miles from Norwich depending on exactly what part you are heading for

Alternatively the A12 main road runs north from Ipswich close to the coast through Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth .

Fees and permits [ edit ]

Boats [ edit ].

If you are taking your own boat on The Broads (e.g. canoe, kayak, dinghy) even for a day, you will need to pay a toll (buy a licence). How much they cost depends on the type/size of boat and how long you are on The Broads for. See   Broads Authority Tolls . Membership of some sporting organisations include a license for your boat on the Broads (e.g. British Canoeing).

Short visit tolls in 2020 (per 7 days period, max 28 days): sailboards, paddleboards, rowboats, canoes etc. £7.90; motorless sailboats < 4 m (13 ft) £8.25, +ca £5 per exceeding metre; boats with motor < 4 m £13.60, +ca £8 per exceeding metre (i.e. ca £45 for a 7.5 m yacht with outboard motor). Vessels must be insured, except the smallest un-powered ones.

Fishing [ edit ]

There are public and private areas on the broads, and some areas where fishing is not permitted for conservation reasons. You will need an Environment Agency Rod Licence .

Get around [ edit ]

norfolk broads short visit tolls

The Broads are served by an extensive road network, though some roads are single track and require care (if unfamiliar with such types of roads).

The region is connected by a network of rivers and dykes and can be seen by boat, either a day or part day boat hire or a longer cabin cruiser hire. Note that most waterways within the broads have speed limits of 3–6 mph (2.5–5 knots) and you are not permitted to cruise between dusk and dawn.

Rail lines within the broads run Norwich – Cromer , Norwich– Great Yarmouth , and Norwich– Lowestoft . Services are operated by Greater Anglia

The area is served by bus routes Travel Line East Anglia and First Group [dead link] and Anglian Bus [dead link] for the Southern Broads.

Some enjoy seeing the region by bike or walking, both shorter circular routes as well as longer multi-day routes (see "Do" section below).

See [ edit ]

Within the confines of the Broads National Park, there are several important conservation areas. Some of the larger specific reserve areas include:

norfolk broads short visit tolls

  • 52.3783 1.0087 7 Redgrave and Lopham Fen NNR . ( updated Mar 2017 )
  • 52.7254 1.6404 8 Martham Broad NNR . ( updated Mar 2017 )

Do [ edit ]

Since the Norfolk Broads is now the UK’s largest nationally protected wetland and an important area for wildlife, there are plenty of outdoor activities to do. You won't find any clubbing spots here but there are many family pub restaurants along the Broads.

One of the main activities is to rent a boat and cruise along the river for a few days, stopping at pubs along the way.

Canoeing [ edit ]

The Broads are ideal for canoeing and kayaking and there are several canoe hire centres around the Broads (full day or part day hire).

  • 52.7699 1.4794 1 Banks Boat & Canoe Hire , Staithe Cottage, Wayford Bridge, NR12 9LN , ☏ +44 1692 582457 , [email protected] . 2 person: <3 hr £25, 3-6 hr £40 . ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.6895 1.4291 2 [formerly dead link] Salhouse Broad Canoe Hire , Lower St, Salhouse NR13 6RX , ☏ +44 1603 722775 , [email protected] . Canadian canoe (2-3 pers): 1 hr £10, 3 hr £23. Kayak (1 pers): 1 hr £7, 3 hr £15 . ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.7096 1.5796 3 [dead link] Herbert Woods ( Canoe/Kayak Hire (also day boat & cruiser) ), The Broads, Bridge Rd, Potter Heigham, NR29 5JF , ☏ +44 1692 670711 , toll-free: +44 800 144 4472 , [email protected] . F Da M Tu 8AM-6PM, W Th 8AM-5PM, Su 9AM-5PM . Full day £36, half day £20 . ( updated May 2017 )
  • 52.63273 1.30854 4 Pub & Paddle ( Canoe Rental ), The Red Lion Pub on Bishop’s Bridge, Norwich , ☏ +44 7886 080875 (mobile) , [email protected] . Parking at Red Lion £4 for the day (rate discounted for canoe hire) £20 (4 hr) - £30 (7 hr) per person . ( updated May 2017 )

Walking [ edit ]

norfolk broads short visit tolls

There are many footpaths and walks around the Broads, both shorter circular routes and longer multi-day walks

Several circular walks described at Discover the Broads [dead link] .

Boating [ edit ]

There are many places where you can hire boats to take out on the Broads, from small day boats through to full family cruisers sleeping aboard for a few weeks, mostly motor boats. A small day boat for a few hours would not normally need booking in advance whilst the holiday sleep aboard cruisers would need advance booking.

  • 52.4715 1.516 7 Rowan Craft Ltd , Wherry Dyke, Geldeston, Beccles, NR34 0LY , ☏ +44 1508 518208 . 8:30AM–1PM, 2–5 . Day boat hire 3 hr £50, all day (6 hr) £80. Canoe hire 3 hr £23, all day £35 per canoe; two and three man canoes available. ( updated Mar 2017 )
  • Richardson's Boating Holidays , The Staithe, Stalham, NR12 9BX , ☏ +44 1692 668981 . Provides cruisers from 2 - 12 berth along the Norfolk Broads.  
  • 52.7106 1.4089 8 Wroxham Boat Hire , The Broads Centre, Riverside Road, Wroxham NR12 8UD , ☏ +44 1603 783051 . 2hrs low season £35, high season £40 . Best to book in advance Jul & Aug ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.7465 1.5691 9 Whispering Reeds Boats Ltd , Staithe Road, Hickling, NR12 0YW , ☏ +44 1692 598314 , [email protected] . Motor launch, sailing boat, canoe hire. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.7098 1.40954 10 Barnes Brinkcraft ( Canoe, Day Boat and Cruiser Hire ), Riverside Rd, Wroxham, NR12 8UD ( On Hoveton side of River Bure ), ☏ +44 1603 782625 , [email protected] . M-F 8AM-5PM, Sa 9AM-4PM . Day boat £15 per hr, picnic boat £79 per ½ day, canoe £25 per ½ day . ( updated May 2017 )

Seals [ edit ]

norfolk broads short visit tolls

Between late Oct and Feb you can visit the Grey Seals at Horsey Gap (check early and late if seals are present before visiting). A large wild population comes ashore over this time (up on the beach and dunes) to breed and give birth. About half the world population of grey seals live around the UK, and Horsey Gap is one of the larger populations. Some areas have been roped-off for sake of seals; they can be dangerous with the young and males around, but you can watch and see the colony clearly.

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ].

  • 52.7122 1.409 1 Ken’s Traditional Fish & Chip Restaurant , The Bridge, Norwich Road, Wroxham, NR12 8DA , ☏ +44 1603 784445 (Restaurant), +44 1603 783739 (Take away) . Summer: daily 11:30AM–8PM; winter: M–Sa 11:30AM–2:30PM & 4:30–7:20PM, Su 11:30AM–6PM . Restaurant, tak-away, tea rooms, coffee shop, vegetarian foods. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.6258 1.3426 2 Rushcutters Arms , 46 Yarmouth Road, Thorpe St Andrew, NR7 0HE , ☏ +44 1603 435403 . Pub: M–Sa 11AM–11PM, Su noon–10:30PM; food: M–Sa 11AM–10PM, Su noon–9:30PM . Pub restaurant. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.6647 1.4958 3 The Ship Inn , 8 The Street South, Walsham, NR13 6DQ , ☏ +44 1603 270049 . Food: M Tu noon–2PM & 6–8PM; W–Sa noon–2PM & 5:30–9PM. Sunday Roast: noon–5:30PM. Pub: M Tu noon–10PM; W Th noon–11PM; F Sa noon– midnight; Su noon–10PM . ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.5355 1.48101 4 The Swan (Loddon) , Church Plain, Loddon, NR14 6LX , ☏ +44 1508 528039 , [email protected] . M-Sa 11AM-11PM, Su noon-10:30PM . ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • Water's Edge ( Woods End ), Mill Road, Bramerton, Norfolk NR14 7ED ( suitable docking area on the River Yare; can also be accessed from Norwich via the A146, following directions to Kirby Bedon then through Kirby Bedon to Bramerton ), [email protected] . Daily noon-3PM (lunch), 6-9PM (dinner) . Bar and restaurant. Reservations recommended on weekends. Plenty of outside seating and car parking behind the restaurant. ( updated Aug 2019 )

Drink [ edit ]

  • 52.7055 1.462 1 The Swan Inn , 10 Lower Street, Horning, NR12 8AA , ☏ +44 1692 630316 . M–Sa noon–11PM; Su noon–10:30PM . Pub, restaurant. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.7125 1.4091 2 [dead link] The Kings Head , Station Road, Hoveton, NR12 8UR , ☏ +44 1603 782429 , [email protected] . M–Th 11AM–11PM; F Sa 11AM– midnight; Su noon–11PM . Pub, restaurant, hotel. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.7104 1.4075 3 [dead link] The Boat Shed ( Pub ), Staithway Road, Wroxham, NR12 8TH , ☏ +44 1603 783 892 . M–F 4–11PM; Sa Su noon–11PM . ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.61681 1.40848 4 The Ferry House , Ferry Rd, Surlingham, NR14 7AR , ☏ +44 1508 538659 . Pub: daily 11AM–11PM. Food: daily noon–9PM . Pub, food. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.6775 1.4888 5 The Maltsters , The Hill, Ranworth, NR13 6AB , ☏ +44 1603 270900 , [email protected] . Pub: M–Sa 11AM–10:30PM; Su –9:30PM. Food: daily noon–3PM & 6–9PM . Pub & restaurant. Also camping area £3.95 per person per night. ( updated Apr 2017 )

Sleep [ edit ]

  • Waterside Breaks ( Norfolk Broads Holiday Cottage & Lodges ), Wroxham, Norfolk ( Wroxham, Horning, Potter Heigham ), ☏ +44 1252 339020 . Selection of waterside cottages & lodges on the Norfolk Broads  
  • 52.7108 1.409 1 Hotel Wroxham , The Bridge, Hoveton Norwich NR12 8AJ , ☏ +44 1603 782061 , [email protected] . ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.7741 1.5848 2 Dairy Barns ( B&B ), Lound Farm, Hickling Lane, Hickling, NR12 OBE , ☏ +44 1692 598243 , [email protected] . ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.6663 1.4723 3 Cotenham Barn , South Walsham Road, Panxworth, NR13 6JG , ☏ +44 1603 270454 , [email protected] . Bed & breakfast, self-catering cottage or yurt. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.6123 1.4131 4 Pottles Barn ( B&B & Self-Catering ), Ferry Road, Surlingham, NR14 7AR , ☏ +44 1508 538823 . ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.534 1.4945 5 [dead link] Hall Green Farm B&B , Norton Road, Loddon, NR14 6DT , ☏ +44 1508 522039 , [email protected] . Single occupancy £55. Double occupancy £65. F or Sa £75 . ( updated Apr 2017 )

Lodging [ edit ]

  • Norfolk Riverside Cottages , Grebe Island, Lower St, Horning, NR12 8PP , ☏ +44 1692 631581 , [email protected] . 8 cottages available. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • Riverside Holidays , Woodcroft, Wood Street, Catfield, NR29 5DF , ☏ +44 1692 580496 , [email protected] . Holiday cottage rental in Potter Heigham area. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • Riverside Rentals , 17 Lower Street, Horning, Norfolk, NR12 8AA , ☏ +44 1493 368300 , [email protected] . Self-catering Norfolk Broads holiday cottage rentals in Horning, Wroxham, Acle, Brundall, Ferry Marina, How Hill, Potter Heigham, Reedham, and Sutton Staithe. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • Swallowdale Holiday Home , 54 Riverside Estate, Brundall, Norfolk, NR13 5PU , ☏ +44 7732 013344 , [email protected] . Self-catering holiday cottage on the River Yare in Brundall. Beautiful views up and down the river with fishing off the decking. Sleeps 4 with parking for 2 cars. Dog friendly. Available all year round. ( updated Oct 2020 )

Camping [ edit ]

  • 52.6894 1.4298 6 Salhouse Broad Camping , Lower St, Salhouse, NR13 6RX ( 1 mile to NE of Salhouse on Salhouse Broad ), ☏ +44 1603 722775 , [email protected] . Open Apr-Sept. Tents only (4m x 4m pitches). £16 per pitch per night . ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.7463 1.5583 7 Hickling Campsite , Heath Road, Hickling, NR12 0AX , ☏ +44 7811 440280 , [email protected] . Tents only, no vehicles. "Pods" available. Open May-Sept. ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.6987 1.5721 8 Willowcroft Camping & Caravan Park , Staithe Road, Repps-with-Bastwick, NR29 5JU , ☏ +44 1692 670380 , [email protected] . Pitch £8. Adult £6. Child £4 . ( updated Apr 2017 )
  • 52.482338 1.668198 9 Waveney River Centre , Burgh St Peter, NR34 0BT , ☏ +44 1502 677343 . Pitches, "pods", shops, swimming pool, boat hire ( updated Apr 2017 )

Stay safe [ edit ]

Given the wide range of activities in the area, safety considerations depend on what you are doing.

For recommendations for water based activities see Broads Authority Safety Recommendations .

Go next [ edit ]

  • Wroxham and Hoveton
  • Potter Heigham
  • Great Yarmouth
  • Beccles and Bungay

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Canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding -->

Canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding the broads.

With freedom to move on your own terms and a different perspective on the beauty of the Broads, intrepid explorers should consider taking to the waters on less conventional craft.

With exceptional views and a vast array of flourishing flora and fauna, some being unique to The Broads National Park, these thriving waterways and landscapes are best explored up close.

Kayaking the Broads

Anyone from a first timer, all the way up to an experienced paddler can take part. Whether you want to enrol in a half-day trail, or complete a 3-day bush craft camp, there’s an adventure to be had out here for everyone.

With a variety of canoe, kayak and paddleboard hire centres available, you can choose a trail based on its length and location to best suit you.

No matter your level of experience, we strongly urge anyone taking part in paddle sports to wear a  buoyancy aid at all times, and a tether (leash) if you are stand-up paddleboarding. You can find more important information about paddling by visiting the Broads Authority's canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding page or watching the videos below.

Paddling videos

Do I need a licence?

If you are a member of  British Canoeing (known as Paddle UK from Spring 2024) , you are licensed to canoe, kayak or stand up paddleboard on any of the Broads Authority waterways including the main rivers and associated broads and dykes without the need to pay a toll on your craft.

If you are not a member of British Canoeing (Paddle UK), you will require either a  Broads Authority short visit toll or an annual toll, depending on how frequently you plan on using the waterways.

Where can I launch?

The Broads is dotted with slipways and launching points from which you can get your craft in and out of the water.

Many of these launch points will be free to use, but some may charge a launching fee so please check ahead of time.

There may also be limited parking at certain locations and again, paddlers should check ahead of time to ensure they can be accommodated.

Please be aware that commercial canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding ventures are only authorised to launch and retrieve their vessels from these locations. Any on-shore training sessions, safety briefs or vessel storage is strictly prohibited.

Where can I paddle?

Canoeing on the Broads

Canoeing and paddleboarding are great ways to discover this beautiful wetland, and as they're silent, you will be able to get closer to the wildlife which includes water voles, great crested grebes and even otters.

Discover the many nooks, crannies and otherwise inaccessible areas out of view from both passing pedestrians and larger pleasure boats. Be aware that you must respect nature reserves and paddle away from the edges to minimise disturbance to breeding birds. We also do not recommend paddling in the lower reaches as these more tidal waters will require you to be extremely experienced, fit and able.

To help you navigate your way around, we have produced a number of paddle trail maps that give you the chance to experience everything from an hours paddle out to a full day’s excursion:

  • Bungay loop canoe trail
  • Bungay to Geldeston canoe trail
  • Geldeston canoe trails
  • Norwich canoe trail
  • Norwich to Rockland canoe trail
  • Rockland to Loddon canoe trail
  • Salhouse Broad canoe trails
  • Wayford Bridge and Sutton canoe trails

You can also download a free app that will allow you to scan the code on signs to get info on your phone. We have QR code signs at the five places listed below, so you can find out about these here on our website or read it whilst actually out and about on your canoe or your paddleboard.

View more canoe, kayak and paddleboard events in our  boating listings.

Trinity Broads

Although they may look appealing to paddlers, the Trinity Broads (Ormesby, Rollesby, Filby, Ormesby Little and Lily Broads) are privately owned bodies of water and are not connected to the navigation.

They are managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust on behalf of Essex & Suffolk Water and are a drinking water supply, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and part of the Broads Special Area of Conservation (SAC). No paddle craft are allowed to use the Broads, and the Norfolk Wildlife Trust have strict controls in place to reduce the chance of invasive species contaminating the ecosystem.

If you have any enquiries about access please contact Eilish Rothney, Nature Reserve Warden by emailing  [email protected] .

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Visitor tolls - a rip off?

kadensa

By kadensa September 14, 2014 in Broads Chat

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I have just paid the BA  £44.20 for the privilege of bringing my 14 ft sailing dinghy + 2.3hp outboard to the Broads for 2 weeks.  That equates to annual charge of  an eye-watering £1149.20!  The actual annual toll charge for the boat would be £92.70 - i.e. just over twice what I paid.

I find it hard to see what  justification there can be for the inflated charges applied to 'visitors' over 'resident' boats.

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650xs

£22.00 per week .................or so not bad ................................

yer get it back / knock off if yer go for full toll .........................

just my thorgth.......................................

i do see whar yer come from but 

£22.00 per week .......................

how much to visit some orf the ole natinal trust places ,lakes walks passes etc ......!!!!???????

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I must say I don't think the short-visit tolls are unreasonable. We brought a 16' racing dinghy with us a few years ago and thought the toll was just one of those unavoidable but minor expenses. I don't remember how much it was but probably somewhat less than you paid as we relied on sail power alone!

yer get it back / knock off if yer go for full toll .........................     how much to visit some orf the ole natinal trust places ,lakes walks passes etc ......!!!!???????

There's no point in my paying the annual toll when I'm only visiting for two weeks. The National Trust is  dfferent  - if I am a member, I can visit any property free of charge for a year.

As for the 'admin'  - a couple of pieces of printed sticky- back paper, an envelope,  a 37p stamp and the time it takes for someone to read an Email, write a few figures, put the paper in the envelope and get it in the post?  

OK, if I were using the dinghy solely, I probably wouldn't mind paying, say, £20- £30, but I have already contributed to the BA coffers indirectly by hiring a cruiser.

OK,  I've now taken a couple of minutes to do the maths and the toll for a 14ft dinghy  works out at £42.26 plus 97p per week. 

Now, whether or not that is value for money is a matter of opinion, however, the impression one gets as a visitor is that you are paying 'above the odds'.

BroadScot

How much are yards charging now to hire a basic rowing dinghy for a week?

Just as a comparison.

Gracie

Iain,we hired a dinghy last year and paid £40, worth every penny

JennyMorgan

JennyMorgan

If visitor tolls were lower then perhaps resident boat owners might then be tempted to buy their licences by the week rather than by the season. I do have some sympathy with the Broads Authority on this one, whatever they do it'll be a wrong for someone. However, I do think that the toll for a small, outboard powered boat is hugely unfair compared with the toll of a large motor cruiser.

Thought for the day, approaching half your toll goes towards Broads Authority overheads rather than the navigation. Now, I think that that really is a rip off.

please enjoy yer hols on the water ..................................................

pay yer price whaether it be hi or low 

yer can stay or gooo

yuo can waffle for days on this ..................................and no dowbt will........................

as yer say in comparsion and 95p a day not bad ...........................................

yer can have my tolls bill and tolls  if yer like ......................and see what the hire flleet boys and girls pay 

enjoy and good commments too ....................................

Viking23

When is a boat not a boat.. ie when it's a toy.

So what about these inflatable kayaks, 2 man pvc inflatable boats you can buy for a few pounds at Lidl, Aldi or seaside shops.

Or inflatale crocodiles etc.

What is the requirement to pay a toll on these?

I have see dozens on the water, some towed behind hire boats, some towed with people in them, a lot under the influence too.

Salhouse broad is a great place to launch one for the kids, these are used without paying a toll, so what do the Broads Authority do about it?

Blatent non payment of tolls.

Do they get fined, or told to pay the minimum toll?

So what about an inner tube, is that some form of boat, what about a smaller version, some would call these life belts lol...

Where is the line drawn?

...... I do think that the toll for a small, outboard powered boat is hugely unfair compared with the toll of a large motor cruiser.......

Too right Peter.

The moment you put even a tiny outboard on a dinghy or inflatable, the toll triples, to close on a hundred pounds.

The annual toll equates to about a quarter of their resale value, whereas the toll for a large motor cruiser is about one-fiftieth of it's resale value at the most.

"Ability to pay" doesn't seem to enter the equation at all.

 However, I do think that the toll for a small, outboard powered boat is hugely unfair compared with the toll of a large motor cruiser.

Entirely agree, JM.  The only reason we're bringing the outboard is so we'll be guaranteed to get to Horsey/Hickling and back.  Our dinghy is a b***h to row,  and since the wind/weather can't be relied on,  the motor is essential.

Your second point, about how much goes towards overheads, is something that I think is implicit in the toll structure, and is why (in my opinion) the visitor tolls are so high. 

Anyway, all that matters to me right now is that in a week or so I'll be sailing again.

ExMemberBobdog

ExMemberBobdog

When is a boat not a boat.. ie when it's a toy. So what about these inflatable kayaks, 2 man pvc inflatable boats you can buy for a few pounds at Lidl, Aldi or seaside shops. Or inflatale crocodiles etc. What is the requirement to pay a toll on these? I have see dozens on the water, some towed behind hire boats, some towed with people in them, a lot under the influence too. Salhouse broad is a great place to launch one for the kids, these are used without paying a toll, so what do the Broads Authority do about it? Blatent non payment of tolls. Do they get fined, or told to pay the minimum toll? So what about an inner tube, is that some form of boat, what about a smaller version, some would call these life belts lol... Where is the line drawn? Richard

Inflatable kayaks (or any other canoes/kayaks) including the 'toy' ones are liable for a toll - whether an annual payment or 'short visit'.  However, if the owner/paddler is a member of the British Canoe Union (BCU) he/she doesn't have to pay a toll direct to the BA.  This is because the BCU negotiate a deal with the BA where they pay a lump sum each year on behalf of their members.  This benefits the BA because they are guaranteed one large sum, rather than have to chase x thousand smaller sums (with the associated admin costs).  Rangers do stop inflatable and other canoe/kayaks which are not displaying a toll plaque/short visit toll and demand a payment if the paddler cannot produce a BCU licence.

ohh dear... .

JM - this is interesting, if not alarming. Where can I find the info that shows how toll revenue relates to overhead and other expenditure?

I agree with other posters that short stay tolls appear excessive especially for smaller craft like this.

Samuel, the following is lifted off the Norfolk & Suffolk Boating Association website:

Government Response to Consultation on Running of the Broads

Defra Consultation on the Governance Arrangements for the National Parks and the Broads

The outcome of the consultation was published in September. The Government does not propose any change in the size of the Broads Authority. This accords with NSBA’s representations to Defra.

Unfortunately, the Government has decided not to change the composition of the Authority, despite the NSBA’s submission that there should be some seats on the Authority reserved for representatives of tollpayers. At present there is no guarantee that a single tollpayer is a member of the Broads Authority. This seems indefensible when tollpayers contribute so much to the Authority’s budget. By 2014/15 tollpayers will provide 48% of the Authority’s income, the proportion of toll income being used to fund overhead costs rising from 21.5% to 43% in that time. NSBA will continue to press for tollpayer representation.

The Government has agreed with the Broads Authority’s wish to carry out a formal review of the Authority’s consultative structure, including the Navigation Committee. The NSBA regards the role of that Committee as of fundamental importance and would not wish to see it diluted in any way. NSBA will be active in seeking to ensure that this does not happen.

The Broads Authority does publish a breakdown of their income & expenditure, if you can find them! Try looking here:

http://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/broads-authority/spending/monthly-spending

or here http://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/427245/report-Navigation-Income-and-Expenditure-0104-310813-Actual-and-2013-14-Forecast-Outturnpdf.pdf

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COMMENTS

  1. Short visit toll

    Short visit tolls are available to purchase in-person from the Broads Authority at Yare House, 62-64 Thorpe Road, Norwich NR1 1RY as well as from a variety of short visit outlets in the Broads. You can also purchase short visit tolls in advance by calling our tolls team on 01603 756080 between the hours of 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday.

  2. Tolls

    Once you are the registered keeper of your vessel, you can renew the annual toll on your vessel using Tolls Online, by calling 01603 756080, by post, or in person. Please be aware that at peak times there can be a minimum processing time of 5 working days to register new craft. In the interim, you will need to purchase a short visit toll ...

  3. Buying your toll online

    The Tolls System can be accessed via the following link - https://tolls.broads-authority.gov.uk. The system enables boat owners to: view their own boat(s) details and status (e.g. BSS compliance) renew annual tolls and complete 3rd party insurance declaration online; update boat safety information; amend personal details

  4. Canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding

    Alternatively short visit tolls can be purchased from a number of outlets in the Broads. If you need any help or advice tolling your craft please phone our friendly tolls team on 01603 756080 or email [email protected]. British Canoeing (to be known as PaddleUK from Spring 2024) members

  5. Annual toll

    Annual tolls are payable on all vessels kept in the navigation area or adjacent waters for more than 28 days in any tolls year (including canoes, kayaks and SUPs). Charges are based on square metre area and go up as the area increases. The amount they increase by depends on the different type of craft. To calculate the square metre area of your ...

  6. Annual Toll Check

    Short visit toll; Other tolls; Buying your toll online; Insurance, Boat Safety Scheme and adjacent waters ... The Norfolk and Suffolk Broads is Britain's largest protected wetland and third largest inland waterway, with the status of a national park. ... Broads Authority Yare House 62-64 Thorpe Road Norwich NR1 1RY United Kingdom. Tel. (01603 ...

  7. Norfolk Broads

    The Norfolk Broads (also commonly referred to as The Broads) ... Short visit tolls in 2020 (per 7 days period, max 28 days): sailboards, paddleboards, rowboats, canoes etc. £7.90; motorless sailboats < 4 m (13 ft) £8.25, +ca £5 per exceeding metre; boats with motor < 4 m £13.60, +ca £8 per exceeding metre (i.e. ca £45 for a 7.5 m yacht ...

  8. Canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding

    If you are a member of British Canoeing, you are licensed to canoe, kayak or stand up paddleboard on any of the Broads Authority waterways including the main rivers and associated broads and dykes without the need to pay a toll on your craft. If you are not a member of British Canoeing, you will require either a Broads Authority short visit ...

  9. Broads Authority

    The tolls system is currently unavailable while we prepare for the 2024 season. Introduction. The Norfolk and Suffolk Broads is Britain's largest protected wetland and third largest inland waterway, with the status of a national park. It's also home to some of the rarest plants and animals in the UK. The Broads Authority was set up in 1989 ...

  10. PDF Application for Registration and Payment of Tolls

    than 28 days you must register your vessel with the Broads Authority and pay a Toll. For less than 28 days vessels need not be registered but must have a short visit toll. The Broads Authority Annual Tolls year is a fixed period and runs from 1st April to 31st March. There is no pro-rata reduction in price for vessels registered after 1st April.

  11. Norfolk and Suffolk Broads boaters face 13% hike in tolls

    Thousands of boats users on the Broads in Norfolk and Suffolk are facing a 13% increase in annual tolls. Costs for using the waterways would rise from £46 to £52 for a small sailing boat but add ...

  12. Norfolk Broads Network

    If you work form the BA tolls leaflet or the website for this yr then yiu can argue the case surely , don't be surprised if they charge you a 50% toll less short visit payments for last yr though , that said short visit tolss are so easy to work out and its worrying that there should be difference's , this yr for a 17 m boat ( 55'10" ) 1-7 days ...

  13. Norfolk Broads Network

    If you're only here for a short while you can buy a short visit toll, which will cost you about £7.00 for a week. An annual toll for a canoe/kayak, inflatable or otherwise, is about £33.00. Or you can join the British Canoe Union, who pay a block fee to the BA for all their members, and you can paddle on the Broads 'free' as long as you have ...

  14. Norfolk Broads Network

    The largest social network dedicated to the Norfolk Broads. Talk and find out about Boating and Holidays on the Broads. It's completely free - ALWAYS. ... Broads Chat ; Short visit tolls ... Short visit tolls. By mazakari April 29, ...

  15. Norfolk Broads Network

    Full Members. 3.7k. Location: Breckland, Norfolk. Posted January 9. For anyone who may be interested, there is a very lengthy letter posted on at least two FB groups (Reform the Broads Authority and Norfolk Broads News) to the BA Board and Nav Com Members, from the BHBF, in time for their meeting later this week.

  16. Norfolk Broads Network

    At present there is no guarantee that a single tollpayer is a member of the Broads Authority. This seems indefensible when tollpayers contribute so much to the Authority's budget. By 2014/15 tollpayers will provide 48% of the Authority's income, the proportion of toll income being used to fund overhead costs rising from 21.5% to 43% in that ...

  17. Short visit toll / Broads Authority

    Short come tolls are available to order in-person from the Broads Authority with Yare House, 62-64 Thorpe Road, North-west NR1 1RY as well as from a variety of short tour outlets in the Broads. You can also purchase short visit taxes in advance by occupation our toll team on 01603 756080 between the hours of 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday.

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    Cruises on the Norfolk Broads are under threat from rising water levels that have made a key bridge impassable, operators say. The rise in levels on the River Thurne follow Norfolk's wettest ...

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    After the Alabama Supreme Court ruled last month that frozen embryos should be considered children, a decision that imperiled access to I.V.F. in the state, Senator Tim Kaine, Democrat of Virginia ...

  24. Annual Toll Check

    Short visit toll; Other tolls; Buying your toll online; Insurance, Boat Safety Scheme and adjacent waters ... The Norfolk and Suffolk Broads is Britain's largest protected wetland and third largest inland waterway, with the status of a national park. ... Broads Authority Yare House 62-64 Thorpe Road Norwich NR1 1RY United Kingdom. Tel. (01603 ...