Best attractions and places to see around Wroxham, often referred to as the "Capital of the Broads," is a popular destination in Norfolk, England. Situated within the Norfolk Broads, it is known for its scenic waterways and boating opportunities. The area offers a diverse range of attractions, including historical sites and natural features. Visitors can explore the River Bure and various broads, providing opportunities for water-based activities and riverside walks.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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I've ridden Marriotts way many times, and it's a great route. However foolishly I didn't appreciate how muddy many parts of it get when it's been wet.
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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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Pleasure to ride this mostly continuous path from Aylsham to Norwich (in dry conditions) through changing settings and off-road surfaces
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This was a lovely off road bike ride and ideal for families. Unfortunately, ruined by out of control dogs off leads, or if on a lead it is a long lead that is barely visible so is a trip hazard. Lots of dogs jump up at you and chase after livestock. I ride responsibly with regard for other users on this shared path but I will not be riding it again any time soon. It’s a shame as I have used it for many years but I’ve had enough of the large amount of dog walkers who use this trail.
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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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Wroxham is a gateway to the stunning Norfolk Broads, offering numerous water-based activities. You can explore the scenic River Bure and its picturesque views. For walking and cycling, Marriott's Way provides a family-friendly, traffic-free path along disused railway lines. You can also visit Turf Fen Drainage Mill, a restored 19th-century windmill, which is often part of a delightful walk.
Yes, Wroxham and its surroundings boast several historical points of interest. The iconic Wroxham Bridge, rebuilt in 1619, is a significant landmark. You can also visit Horstead Mill, where only the lower sections remain of what was once a prominent 18th-century mill, believed to have existed since Saxon times. For a broader historical context of the region, The Museum of the Broads in nearby Stalham offers insights into the area's heritage.
Wroxham is excellent for families. You can visit Wroxham Barns, which features a junior farm where children can feed animals, craft studios, and seasonal funfair attractions. Another popular choice is Wroxham Miniature Worlds, the UK's largest indoor model attraction, with extensive model railway layouts and Lego cities. The Bure Valley Railway offers a scenic steam train journey from Wroxham to Aylsham, which is a hit with all ages.
There are various cycling routes catering to different preferences around Wroxham. For road cycling, you can find routes like the 'Wroxham to Ludham loop' or the 'Norwich Castle & Cathedral loop from Wroxham'. If you prefer mountain biking, options include trails around Salhouse and Thorpe St Andrew. You can explore more details and specific routes on the Road Cycling Routes around Wroxham and MTB Trails around Wroxham guide pages.
Yes, Wroxham offers several running trails. Popular options include the 'Wroxham Bridge – Coltishall Station loop from Wroxham' and the 'Salhouse Broad loop from Salhouse'. The Bure Valley Trail also provides longer running opportunities. For more detailed information on distances and difficulty, you can check the Running Trails around Wroxham guide page.
Beyond the broads, Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden is an award-winning attraction near Wroxham, featuring 136 acres of protected natural habitat, woodland trails, and seasonal boat trips on its private broad. You can also visit Ranworth Broad, a private broad owned by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, accessible by foot along a boardwalk or by boat, which includes a floating visitor center and a bird observation hide.
For local art, the Wroxham Bridge Art Gallery showcases works by local artists. For a unique shopping experience, Roys of Wroxham, often called the 'world's largest village store,' offers a wide range of goods and is widely associated with the area, though technically located in Hoveton.
Yes, The Museum of the Broads, located in nearby Stalham, provides a comprehensive insight into the heritage, wildlife, and people of the Norfolk Broads, complete with traditional boats and interactive exhibits. Additionally, the RAF Air Defence Radar Museum at Neatishead offers a fascinating look into Britain's air defense history.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse range of activities, from the peaceful off-road cycling on trails like Marriott's Way, which is ideal for families, to exploring historical sites such as Horstead Mill. The scenic beauty of the Norfolk Broads and the opportunity for boat trips are also highly valued. Many enjoy the blend of natural beauty, historical insights, and family-friendly entertainment available.
Absolutely. The Rising Sun Pub in Coltishall is a lovely riverside pub with a good-sized beer garden, offering excellent food and a pleasant spot to relax. Another unique dining experience is The Station Smokehouse in Wroxham, known for its extensive smokehouse menu and American diner vibes, set on a scenic railway platform.
Wroxham Broad is a beautiful stretch of water located downstream from Wroxham Bridge. It's a popular spot for boating and is home to the Norfolk Broads Yacht Club. You can experience it by hiring a day boat, taking a guided boat trip, or simply enjoying the views from the riverside.
The Norfolk Broads are beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer (April to September) offer the warmest weather, ideal for boating, cycling, and enjoying outdoor attractions like Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can be quieter, offering a different, serene perspective of the waterways and opportunities to visit indoor attractions like Wroxham Miniature Worlds or museums.


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