Best attractions and places to see around Blofield, a village in Norfolk, England, offers a blend of historical sites, cultural insights, and access to natural beauty. Located approximately 8 miles east of Norwich, it serves as a base for exploring local attractions and the wider Norfolk area. The region features prominent natural features like the River Yare and is situated near the Norfolk Broads National Park.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
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Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, a watercourse - natural or artificial - could simply replace human or animal muscle power with the power of the natural elements, for example to grind grain into corn or to press oil from fruit. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - above the wheel and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.
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Impressive fortress that still dominates the centre of Norwich. Now a museum.
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The Rising Sun is a lovely riverside pub in Coltishall, which does excellent food, including wood fired Neapolitan pizzas. It also offers bed and breakfast accommodation, offering a pleasant basecamp from which to explore the wider Broads.
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It's thought that there had been a mill here since at least Saxon times. The 18th-century incarnation of Horstead Mill was once one of the most photographed in Britain, a fine sight on the River Bure. However, it burned down in 1963 and, today, only the lower parts of the building remain.
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Horstead watermill was burnt down in 1963 and all that remains is the lower section of the mill building. It was one of the biggest and most photographed mills in the country.
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Things to know: First of all, it is a delightful walk. If you begin at Ludham Bridge, there are plenty of places to park along the road. They are free parking pull-outs, so you're not exposed to parking on a narrow street. There is a bakery and public toilets. Although the walk parallels the river, you're not really next to it, except for a couple of spots. Nonetheless it's still very picturesque. Most of the path was easy to navigate accept for one short stretch where the tall grass had obscured the trail. It was very short, and if you look to your left, you'll see the posts of a short bridge, so just aim for that. At about the halfway point is How Hill Estate. It's rather a dramatic building with a thatched roof. Unusual for a building that size. I think you can get a room there if you're not from the area. There's a large lawn there, a place to watch the boats and, most importantly, public toilets and take-away café. It can be busy on the weekends so pick your day. Although we were there on a Sunday in July and it wasn't bad. Then it's back the way you came. FYI The Dog pub is just a short, safe, walk up the road from the start/end of the walk, in case you're interested.
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Norwich Castle is undergoing major works to restore the floors to their original level of the 12th century so future visitors can truly appreciate what life in the castle was like when it was built. It is still possible to appreciate the royal Norman fortress from the outside.
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Only reachable by boat across the River Ant, Turf Fen Drainage Mill is an attractive 19th-century windmill. It was built to drain the marsh behind it so that livestock could graze on the land. It has been restored by the Norfolk Windmills Trust, after falling out of use in 1920.
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Blofield and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit Horstead Mill, where the lower section of the mill building remains as a historical landmark. Another significant site is St Mary's Church, Fishley, known for its 12th-century round tower. Further afield, explore the impressive Norwich Castle, a Norman fortress now a museum, or the ancient Burgh Castle Roman Fort. Don't miss St Andrew and St Peter's Church in Blofield itself, dating back to the 15th century.
Absolutely. Blofield is ideally located near the Norfolk Broads National Park, offering miles of waterways and wildlife. The River Yare is a prominent natural feature, and you can enjoy scenic walks along sections of the Wherryman's Way. The area around Horstead Mill along the River Bure also provides picturesque views. For a unique sight, visit Turf Fen Drainage Mill, an attractive 19th-century windmill set amidst the marshland.
Blofield offers a variety of walking routes to explore the local countryside. You can find paths along the River Bure and through the Broadland area. For specific hiking trails, consider routes like the 'All Saints Church, Hemblington loop from Blofield Heath' or the 'Margaret Harker Field loop from Blofield', which are generally easy. You can find more details and routes on the Easy hikes around Blofield guide.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Norwich Castle offers engaging exhibits suitable for families. For outdoor adventure, BeWILDerwood Norfolk is an award-winning forest of fun. Animal lovers will enjoy the Redwings Horse Sanctuary Caldecott Visitor Centre. Additionally, many local pubs, like The Rising Sun Pub, Coltishall, are family-friendly and offer pleasant riverside settings.
You'll find options for refreshments, especially along the rivers and in nearby villages. The Rising Sun Pub in Coltishall is a popular riverside spot with a good beer garden and food options, including wood-fired pizzas. Many walking routes also pass by or are close to local pubs and cafes, particularly in areas like Ludham Bridge, which has a bakery and public toilets.
The area around Blofield is great for cycling, with various routes catering to different difficulties. You can explore routes like the 'Reedham Riverside loop from Brundall' or the 'Marriott's Way – Bishop Bridge, Norwich loop from Brundall'. For more cycling options, including easy and moderate routes, check out the Cycling around Blofield guide.
Yes, there are mountain biking trails available. You can find routes such as the 'Elm Hill – River Tud Bridge loop from Salhouse' or 'The Bridleway loop from Bramerton'. These range from easy to moderate difficulty. Discover more trails in the MTB Trails around Blofield guide.
St Mary's Church, Fishley is notable for its 12th-century round tower and its rich architectural and cultural history. It has served as a regular place of worship since its construction and offers a tranquil, historic atmosphere. Its isolated setting overlooking marshes adds to its memorable charm.
Horstead Mill was once one of the country's biggest and most photographed watermills. Although the main structure burnt down in 1963, the lower section of the mill building remains. It's a historical site that can be seen during walks along the River Bure, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past and the power of water-driven machinery.
Norwich Castle is approximately 6.4 miles from Blofield. It is a significant Norman fortress that now functions as a museum and art gallery. Visitors can explore its history, view art collections, and even take guided tours that may include access to the roof for panoramic views of Norwich. It's a great destination for history and culture enthusiasts.
Beyond the well-known sites, Turf Fen Drainage Mill offers a unique experience. This attractive 19th-century windmill, restored by the Norfolk Windmills Trust, is only reachable by boat across the River Ant, adding to its secluded charm. It was originally built to drain the marshland for livestock grazing.
The Wherryman's Way is a long-distance footpath that follows the River Yare, showcasing stereotypical Norfolk scenery. Sections of this path are accessible near Blofield, offering excellent opportunities for riverside walks and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. It's a great way to experience the local landscape and wildlife.


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