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This guide highlights ten of the best mooring spots where you can enjoy beautiful views, great facilities, and a true sense of tranquillity.
1. Salhouse Broad
Why Moor Here:
Quiet, natural setting with woodland walks.
Excellent wildlife spotting – kingfishers, herons, and even otters.
Mud weight and stern-on moorings are available (fees apply).
Facilities:
Fresh water and rubbish disposal.
Canoe hire and a small shop during high season.
Easy access to Salhouse village.
Mooring Fees:
Small charge per night.
2. Ranworth Staithe
Why Moor Here:
Beautiful views across Malthouse Broad.
Popular spot with a friendly atmosphere.
Walk to St Helen’s Church tower for panoramic vistas.
Facilities:
Pub, tea rooms, and a village shop.
Toilets, electric, waste disposal, and fresh water.
Wildlife Centre and boardwalk.
Mooring Fees:
Fees apply; spaces fill quickly in summer.
3. Neatishead Staithe
Why Moor Here:
Quiet dyke moorings off Barton Broad.
Picturesque village with an award-winning pub.
Facilities:
Water and electric.
Short walk to the White Horse Inn.
Mooring Fees:
Free Broads Authority moorings (time restrictions apply).
4. How Hill
Why Moor Here:
One of the most scenic stretches of the River Ant.
Ideal for walking and exploring the Toad Hole Cottage Museum and secret garden.
Facilities:
Mooring posts and quay heading.
No shops.
Mooring Fees:
Free 24-hour moorings.
5. Coltishall Common
Why Moor Here:
Riverside green is perfect for picnics.
Short walk to local pubs and the village shop.
Facilities:
Water points and one electric point.
Mooring Fees:
Free 24-hour mooring on a large common.
6. Womack Water, Ludham
Why Moor Here:
Sheltered, pretty location close to Ludham village.
Excellent base for exploring the northern Broads.
Facilities:
Water, waste disposal, and toilets.
Shops and a pub are within walking distance.
Mooring Fees:
Staithe mooring fees apply.
7. Thurne Dyke
Why Moor Here:
Iconic views of Thurne Mill.
Popular with photographers and walkers.
Facilities:
Moorings on both sides of the dyke.
The pub (Lion Inn) is a short stroll away.
Mooring Fees:
A small charge payable to the mooring warden.
8. Beccles Quay
Why Moor Here:
Riverside market town atmosphere.
Ideal for stocking up on supplies or dining out.
Facilities:
Electric hook-up, water, toilets, showers in basin, but free 24-hour moorings under bridge.
Shops, cafes, and an outdoor pool.
Mooring Fees:
Overnight charges apply in the basin; facilities are average.
9. Paddy’s Lane, Barton Broad
Why Moor Here:
Stunning sunsets over open water.
Peaceful spot away from busy villages.
Facilities:
Simple mooring pontoons.
No services, so be prepared.
Mooring Fees:
Free 24-hour moorings.
10. Reedham Quay
Why Moor Here:
Lively village beside the River Yare.
Easy access to the chain ferry and Reedham Station.
Facilities:
Electric hook-up, water, showers, and waste disposal.
Pubs and shops are nearby.
Mooring Fees:
Mooring fees apply.
Tips For Mooring Safely
Arrive early: Popular spots fill up by mid-afternoon in high season.
Check depth: Some moorings are shallow at low tide and moor up into the current.
Use fenders and lines properly: Protect your boat and avoid drifting.
Be considerate: Keep noise down, especially in quiet locations.
Watch the forecast: Sudden changes in weather can affect mooring safety.
Final Thoughts
The Norfolk Broads offers countless beautiful mooring spots to suit every preference, whether you want to stay close to pubs and shops or hide away in peaceful reed beds. With a little planning, you can discover new favourites on every trip and enjoy some of the most scenic waterside experiences England has to offer.
These details are likely to vary at different times of the year.