3 places to paddle in Norfolk
Sitting on England's east coast, Norfolk is a stunning county which showcases some of the best coastlines and countryside the UK has to offer. What better way to explore these than by getting out on the water yourself? Here are some of our favourite places to visit and make the most of your trip to Norfolk.
Wells-next-the-Sea
Wells-next-the-Sea has one of the most picturesque beaches in North Norfolk, lined with colourful beach huts and golden sands. The bustling town offers the chance to see a working harbour and a thriving tourist trade meaning there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and shops around. There is a lot of wildlife that also calls Wells-next-the-Sea its home so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for birds and seals.
After doing some crabbing from the harbour wall you can get in on the action yourself on a stand-up paddleboard. Why not join a guided tour led by a team from North Norfolk Paddleboards and explore the harbour and salt marshes in a new way? The water around Wells-next-the-Sea is perfect for beginners, and your guide will help you see the local sites.
Swanton Morely
Swanton Morely is the home of the River Wensum, the longest chalk stream in Norfolk. The Wensum is one of the most protected rivers in Europe as chalk streams are rare, with the majority flowing in southern England. Rivers like the Wensum are incredibly clear as the chalk filters out all of the dirt, allowing you to see everything that’s going on below the surface.
It’s important that the river is kept clean and safe, so a canoe or kayak is the ideal way to explore it. Based nearby, Dereham Canoe Group offers lessons and group tours for all skill levels. You can paddle your way up and down the river with friends and family, without leaving a trace.
Brancaster
On the western side of North Norfolk you can find the lively village of Brancaster, a community that has been around since Roman times. Brancaster, and its neighbouring village of Brancaster Staithe, are classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Both are traditional fishing villages and are well-known for their freshly caught seafood.
Brancaster beach offers the perfect setting to try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. The small waves are very beginner-friendly, so it’s the ideal place to find your feet on a board. Brancaster Boards provide SUP boards to give you the freedom to explore the coastline and marshes. You can keep hold of your board for up to 14 days so you can see all Brancaster has on offer.
With fields, beaches, and skies stretching out as far as the eye can see, Norfolk is a beautiful county. We hope you enjoy exploring its beautiful rivers and coastlines!
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