The Norfolk Broads, Britain's largest protected wetland and a national park, begins just 3 miles from Great Yarmouth. With over 125 miles of navigable waterways, ancient woodlands and abundant wildlife, the Broads offer a completely different experience to the bustling seaside. A day trip from St George Hotel is an absolute must.

Boat Hire and River Trips

The best way to experience the Broads is from the water. Several companies offer day boat hire with no experience necessary. You can hire a motorboat for the day and cruise at your own pace through peaceful waterways lined with reed beds and meadows. Most day boats accommodate 6-8 people and cost between £80-£150 for a full day, making them excellent value for families or groups.

Popular starting points for boat hire include Wroxham (the "Capital of the Broads", 20 miles from Great Yarmouth), Potter Heigham (15 miles) and Horning (18 miles). All are easily accessible by car from St George Hotel with free parking available at most hire centres.

If you prefer to sit back and relax, guided river trips operate from several locations. These narrated cruises take you through the most scenic stretches while an experienced skipper does all the work. Some trips include cream teas or lunch on board.

Wildlife Spotting

The Norfolk Broads are a haven for wildlife. Keep your eyes open for kingfishers darting along the riverbanks, majestic marsh harriers soaring overhead, and if you're very lucky, the elusive otter. The Broads are also home to the rare swallowtail butterfly, found nowhere else in the UK, and the bittern, whose booming call echoes across the reed beds in spring.

RSPB Strumpshaw Fen (12 miles from Great Yarmouth) is one of the best nature reserves in Norfolk. Well-maintained trails and hides make wildlife watching accessible for all abilities. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best sightings.

Ranworth Broad has a floating wildlife centre with spectacular views across the broad. The nature trail through ancient woodland is beautiful in any season.

Walking and Cycling

The Broads offer excellent walking and cycling opportunities. The Weavers' Way long-distance footpath passes through some of the most beautiful Broads scenery. Shorter circular walks are available at most Broads villages, typically taking 1-3 hours.

Bike hire is available in several locations, and the flat terrain makes cycling accessible for all fitness levels. The quiet lanes and dedicated cycle paths around the Broads are perfect for a leisurely day out.

Charming Broads Villages

Wroxham and Hoveton sit either side of the River Bure and offer shops, restaurants and riverside pubs. Horning is a picture-postcard village with thatched cottages overlooking the river. Ranworth has a stunning medieval church tower with panoramic views across the Broads. Potter Heigham is famous for its ancient medieval bridge and is a great base for exploring the northern Broads.

Practical Information

The Broads are open year-round, though boat hire typically operates from April to October. Spring brings nesting birds and wildflowers. Summer offers the warmest weather for boating. Autumn colours are spectacular, and winter provides dramatic skies and excellent birdwatching. Bring layers, binoculars if you have them, and waterproof footwear for walking trails.

Stay and Explore

St George Hotel in Great Yarmouth is the perfect base for exploring the Norfolk Broads. With free parking and easy access to the A47, you can reach the best Broads locations in 15-30 minutes. After a day on the water, return to the comfort of your en-suite room with its stunning seafront location. Book your Broads adventure base today at great rates.