Best lakes around Wroxham are part of the Norfolk Broads, a network of interconnected lakes and rivers. Wroxham, known as the "Capital of the Broads," serves as a primary access point to these unique waterways. The region is characterized by man-made "broads" which offer ecological value and recreational opportunities. These broads provide diverse experiences, from water sports to nature observation.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Wroxham.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
It’s a fantastic place for a leisurely walk or a paddle in a canoe, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
0
0
Whitlingham Country Park is where the majesty of the Broads meets the buzz of the city. Just a short walk from Norwich's centre, the serene trails here are adored by locals and visitors alike. There's a cafe, an adventure centre and trails that explore the park's woodlands and meadows.
0
0
You can't see that much of the marshes from the road but the woods are very pleasant.
0
0
Very scenic spot, ideal for a cafe stop. Granary Stores shop and cafe is open 8.30-9pm 7 days a week!
0
0
Thorpe Marshes is a diverse habitat situated in Norwich, offering walkers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The marshes feature reed beds, wet meadows, and open water, which provide a home for a diverse range of bird species such as kingfishers, herons, and terns.
1
0
Located on the edge of Norwich, Thorpe Marshes is a wonderful mixture of habitats in a nature reserve managed by Norfolk Wildlife Trust. Close to the River Yare, the area is covered in wildflower marshes and dykes. You may spot dragonfly, damselfly and butterfly here, as well as many waterbirds. Chinese water deer, and smaller Muntjac deer have also taken up residence.
1
0
Ranworth is a picture postcard village in the heart of the Broads alongside Ranworth and Malthouse Broad just off the River Bure. The village has moorings, a pub and village store and the church is known for exceptional views once you have climbed the tower, with a huge area of the Broads visible from the top. The National Trust has a floating Broads Wildlife Centre that is reached by a boardwalk from the village and has a panoramic vista across the water. .
1
0
Great place have a break, several public benches &picnic tables, drinking water tap (intended for boaters but available to all), cafe and shop.
0
0
The lakes around Wroxham, often called 'broads,' are a distinctive network of interconnected waterways within the Norfolk Broads. These are primarily man-made, formed from medieval peat diggings, yet they are now naturally integrated and offer significant ecological value and diverse recreational opportunities. They range from active water sports hubs to quiet wildlife havens.
For water sports, Whitlingham Great Broad is a popular choice. Located within Whitlingham Country Park, it's known for wild swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. You can also launch paddleboards and canoes from Malthouse Broad Marina.
If you're seeking tranquility, South Walsham Broad is an ideal location. It's known for its serene environment, where you can enjoy the sounds of birdsong and gently lapping water, perfect for relaxation.
Yes, Upton Broad and Marshes Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for wildlife. It features diverse habitats like alder carr woodland, fen, reedbed, and grazing marsh, supporting rare swallowtail butterflies, water voles, otters, and over 20 species of dragonflies. Wroxham Broad itself is also ecologically important, with kingfishers, Cetti's warblers, and various ducks.
There are various walking and hiking trails suitable for different abilities. For easy walks, you can explore routes like the 'Coltishall and Belaugh loop' or 'Swans on the River Bure' near Coltishall. You can find more details and routes in the Easy hikes around Wroxham guide.
Absolutely. Whitlingham Great Broad features a cycle path along the water's edge. For more extensive cycling adventures, you can explore routes like the 'Rebellion Way and Bure Valley Path Loop' or the 'Wroxham to Plantation Bridge loop'. Discover more cycling options in the Cycling around Wroxham guide.
Many broads are family-friendly. Ranworth Broad Village and Waterfront offers a picturesque setting with a floating Broads Wildlife Centre accessible via a boardwalk, which is great for all ages. Whitlingham Great Broad also offers accessible paths and water sports suitable for families.
The village of Ranworth, adjacent to Ranworth Broad Village and Waterfront, has a pub and a village store with a cafe. Malthouse Broad Marina also features a nice cafe with public toilets and parking.
The broads offer diverse fishing opportunities. Wroxham Broad is popular for coarse fishing, with species like carp, bream, tench, roach, and pike. Hoveton Great Broad also offers good fishing for bream, roach, pike, and tench. Salhouse Broad is considered excellent for first-time anglers, with roach, perch, and bream readily available.
Yes, from Ranworth Broad Village and Waterfront, you can ascend the church tower for exceptional panoramic views of the vast Broads landscape.
The Norfolk Broads are beautiful year-round, but late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers the best weather for outdoor activities like boating, walking, and cycling. During these months, wildlife is also very active, and most facilities are fully operational.
Yes, there are mountain biking trails in the wider Wroxham area. You can find routes like the 'Elm Hill – River Tud Bridge loop' or 'Drewray Woods Singletrack loop'. For more detailed information and routes, refer to the MTB Trails around Wroxham guide.


Still not found your perfect lake around Wroxham? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.