Attractions and Places To See around Stokesby With Herringby - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Stokesby With Herringby include a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and riverside charm within the Broads National Park. This civil parish is situated on the banks of the River Bure, offering a tranquil setting. The area is characterized by its marshlands, traditional farming landscapes, and unique waterways. It provides opportunities to explore historical landmarks and enjoy the distinctive Norfolk countryside.
Best attractions and places to see around Stokesby With Herringby
- The most popular attractions is Horsey Windpump, a historical site that has been brought back to life with a winding cap and turning sails after standing silent since 1943. From the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the Norfolk countryside and Horsey Mere.
- Another must-see spot is Reedham Ferry, a bridge that operates as a chain-pulled ferry crossing the River Yare. It offers a unique way to cross the river, with a pub and food available nearby.
- Visitors also love Ruins of St Mary's Church, East Somerton, a religious building where nature has reclaimed the abandoned 17th-century church. A large oak tree grows in the center of the ruins, adding to its atmospheric setting.
- Stokesby With Herringby is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and riverside activities. The area offers a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty within the Broads National Park, and unique riverside experiences.
- The attractions around Stokesby With Herringby are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 140 upvotes and 65 photos shared.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Reedham Ferry
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Horsey Windpump
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St Mary's Church, Fishley
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Turf Fen Drainage Mill
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Ruins of St Mary's Church, East Somerton
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Tips from the Community
National Trust-run windmill in the middle of the wide, flat broads landscape. Cafe and toilets for a refreshment stop as well.
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There is a car park here, which is managed by the National Trust. There are lovely hiking trails all around through the Broads and to the North Sea coast. You can see several colonies of seals on the coast.
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The National Trust maintains a car park right next to the mill. You can also get tickets to the mill there. It's worth a visit, as you'll not only learn details about the mill, but also gain an insight into the miller's life.
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In the woods of East Somerton are the ruins of St Mary’s church, with glassless windows, tumbling walls, and a tower where you can look up into the open sky. From the 15th-century, St Mary’s went from serving its own parish to becoming part of the larger parish of West Somerton. It fell into disuse in the 17th-century and has remained abandoned. The most striking feature is a tree in the centre of the ruins, known as “The Witch’s Leg.”
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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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Easy to use and ferryman always helpful. £1.50 bike and rider £2 return.. Closes in summer at 10pm sharp. They take cards and cash. We approached from the South vbank and the ferry was on the other side waiting for cars, but the ferryman started immediately back to pick us up great service.
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Pub by the ferry with nice outside space. Lunches good but check opening times I think it's closed Monday and Tuesday
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Stokesby With Herringby and the surrounding area?
The region is rich in history. You can visit Horsey Windpump, a restored 19th-century mill offering panoramic views and insights into a miller's life. Don't miss the atmospheric Ruins of St Mary's Church, East Somerton, where nature has reclaimed a 17th-century church, or St Mary's Church, Fishley, known for its 12th-century round tower. Another notable site is Turf Fen Drainage Mill, an attractive 19th-century windmill only reachable by boat.
Are there any unique natural features or viewpoints to discover?
Stokesby With Herringby is nestled within the unique landscape of the Broads National Park, situated on the banks of the River Bure. You can enjoy views of the river traffic and the expansive grazing marshlands. Horsey Windpump offers magnificent panoramic views of the Norfolk countryside and Horsey Mere from its top. The area's marsh dykes are also home to diverse plants and insects, including damselflies and dragonflies.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near Stokesby With Herringby?
The area offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various scenic walks, including a 4.5-mile circular walk starting from Stokesby staithe. For more structured routes, explore guides like Easy hikes around Stokesby With Herringby or Hiking around Stokesby With Herringby. Cyclists can also find routes, such as those in the Cycling around Stokesby With Herringby guide, which includes routes like the 'Thurne and Winterton-on-Sea loop from Stokesby'.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Horsey Windpump is a great option, offering educational insights and a tea room. The Reedham Ferry provides a unique experience of crossing the River Yare on a chain-pulled ferry. Additionally, nearby Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens houses a special collection of rare Asian animals, viewed from raised walkways, which is popular with children.
Where can I find places to eat or relax by the river?
The Ferry Inn, located on the quayside, is a popular riverside pub with its own moorings, offering an extensive food menu and a large beer garden. It's an ideal spot to enjoy refreshments and watch the river traffic. The Riverside Stores and Tea Rooms near the village green also offer provisions, light lunches, and afternoon cream teas.
What is the best time of year to visit Stokesby With Herringby?
The area offers different experiences throughout the year. During winter months, Horsey Gap is known for potential seal sightings, offering a beautiful walk combined with marshes and fields. The Broads National Park is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through autumn, when the weather is milder and wildlife is active.
Can I see wildlife in Stokesby With Herringby?
Absolutely. The marsh dykes are home to a variety of plants and insects, including damselflies and dragonflies. The Broads is an Environmentally Sensitive Area, supporting traditional farming that protects the marsh landscape and its wildlife. Horsey Gap is particularly known for seal sightings during the winter months.
Are there any easy walking trails suitable for all abilities?
Yes, there are several easy walks. A circular walk of 4.5 miles (taking 3-4 hours) starts from the Stokesby staithe by the village green. You can also find easy routes in the Easy hikes around Stokesby With Herringby guide, such as the 'St Mary's Church, Fishley – Reedbeds in The Broads loop from Acle'.
What is the significance of the River Bure in Stokesby With Herringby?
The River Bure is central to the village's charm and history. Stokesby With Herringby is situated directly on its banks, making it an attractive spot for observing river traffic. Historically, staithes like Stokesby Staithe were crucial for transporting goods by river. The river also provides opportunities for peaceful walks along its banks and is part of the broader network of waterways in the Broads National Park.
Is there parking available at attractions?
For Horsey Windpump, the National Trust maintains a car park right next to the mill. For other walks and attractions, parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check specific locations, but free parking pull-outs are often available along roads near popular walking routes, such as those near Ludham Bridge for walks to Turf Fen Drainage Mill.
What is the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/175283" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reedham Ferry</a> and how does it operate?
The Reedham Ferry is a unique chain-pulled ferry that crosses the River Yare. It operates continuously on demand from 6:30 am to 8 pm Monday to Friday, and 8 am to 8 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. You do not need to book ahead to use it. It's a great way to cross the river and offers a nearby pub with food.
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