Ranworth NWT
Located just 20 minutes outside of Norwich, Ranworth Broad offers a beautiful slice of Norfolk countryside just a stone’s throw from the city. A fantastic place to learn more about the habitats, plants and animals that make up the Broads, this picturesque spot makes a great destination for a family day out.
One of the main features of Ranworth NWT is the boardwalk that snakes its way along the side of the waterway and through lush woodland. This specially designed path takes visitors right into the heart of the landscape, giving them the chance to get up close and personal with the region’s wildlife.
Route
If you want to explore the boardwalk and the surrounding area, park up in the Norfolk Wildlife Trust Information Centre in Ranworth and then follow the signs for the Boardwalk and visitor centre. The boardwalk itself is 750m long and meanders through pristine woodland and along picturesque waterways.
As you walk along the footpath, you’re likely to spot a number of local wildfowl. In the winter months, wigeon, gadwall, teal, shoveler and pochard are common in the area, while great crested grebes can be seen all year round. Kingfishers, cormorants and swallowtails are also easily spotted on the Ranworth trail.
Difficulty
The boardwalk itself is well maintained and easy to navigate. At less than a kilometre long, and largely flat, it’s short enough to be suitable for people of all fitness levels. However, the route maybe not be suitable for people with mobility problems.
Facilities
Although there aren’t any facilities on the short 750m boardwalk, you’ll find plenty of amenities in the nearby village of Ranworth. Stop in for a drink or a tasty meal at the Maltsters pub or refuel with a coffee and a cake at the nearby Granary Stores.
You’ll find public toilets at the staithe and a small shop is located close to the boardwalk.
Points of interest
At the end of the boardwalk is the Ranworth Broad Visitor Centre. This unique building floats on the water, giving visitors uninterrupted views of the waterway. The visitor centre is packed full of information on the Broads, the local habitat and the creatures that live there. A number of exciting activities are available at the centre, including dyke dipping, boat trips, environmental games and habitat walks. Older visitors to the centre can learn all about conservation management, data collection and the impact of tourism on the area.
If you’re a fan of Mother Nature, walking around Ranworth Broad is a great way to learn a little more about the natural habitat of the Broads. Osprey, swallowtails, common terns and otters are all regularly spotted in the area, with several other specials also living in Ranworth Broad.
A fantastic destination for anyone who wants to learn more about the makeup, flora and fauna of the broads, Ranworth NWT makes the perfect day out for visitors of all ages. Get in touch with the visitor centre to find out about activities and events taking place in the local area or explore our site to learn more about the walks available in and around the Broads.