Norfolk Broads Getting there & around

Getting around

You can hire a variety of launches from large cabin cruisers to little craft with outboards for a couple of hours’ gentle messing about on the river.

Boating holidays are operated by Blakes (0870 2202 498; www.blakes.co.uk) and Hoseasons (01502-502588; www.hoseasons.co.uk) among others. Depending on boat size, facilities and season, a boat for two to four people costs around £490 to £840 for a week including fuel and insurance.

Meanwhile boat yards around Wroxham and Potter Heigham hire out boats for shorter cruises, from an hour to several days. Look out for the traditional flat-bottomed boats known as wherries. In the height of summer, prices start from £28 for two hours, £39 for four hours and £67 for one day. Prices drop outside summer.

No previous experience is necessary, but remember to stay on the right-hand side of the river, that the rivers are tidal and to stick to the speed limit – you can be prosecuted for speeding.

If you don’t feel like piloting your own boat, try Broads Tours (www.broads.co.uk; Wroxham 01603-782207; the Bridge; Potter Heigham (01692-670711; Broads Haven) which runs 1½-hour pleasure trips (adult/child £6/4.50) from April to September.