Over at Barking Bugle HQ, we’d been hearing all sorts of exciting tales about the riverbanks and waterways of the Norfolk Broads — all said to be perfect places for a dog to enjoy a day out, a weekend away or even a longer adventure with their humans. We’d also heard that plenty of self-catering cottages and holiday boats welcome dogs with open paws, as do many of the local attractions, pubs and even some rather tasty eateries!
So, when our editor, Miss Zsa Zsa, suggested I go and see for myself, my ears perked right up. I’ve always fancied myself a bit of a sea-dog, so when I cheekily asked, “Could I hire a boat on expenses?” and she actually said yes, I knew this was one assignment I simply couldn’t turn down!
🛥️ Anchors Aweigh! On the Water
I quickly discovered that there are several companies on the Broads that are dog friendly, offering boat hire by the hour, day, or even by the week. For my adventure, I hired a day boat from Broads Tours at Wroxham.
The thought of being captain of my own boat was quite daunting at first, but I had been reliably informed that the 125 miles (200km) of the area’s waterways are actually very easy to navigate. So, following in the pawsteps of Norfolk born Horatio Nelson it was Anchors Aweigh!
It was totally pawsome gliding along in my open-top electric boat and waving away to fellow captains and their passengers in passing boats. Ziggy’s Top Tip – Keep your nose and eyes peeled — the Broads are full of wildlife, including the rare Norfolk hawker dragonfly.
You’ll find plenty of places where you can moor up to enjoy a picnic, visit a dog friendly pub, or simply just lie back and take in the views!
If you don’t fancy hiring your own boat, guided river trips are available. Broads Tours in the north and Waveney River Tours , at Oulton Broad in the south. Both offer scenic cruises with live commentary. You can sit back, relax and enjoy the wildlife and history — without even lifting a paw!
Venice of the East
The Broads form a watery triangle between Lowestoft, Stalham and Norwich — a mix of rivers, lakes and open skies often called the Venice of the East. Hard to believe, but there are actually more miles of waterway here than in Venice or Amsterdam!
With so much to discover, one day on the water simply whets your appetite. Longer boat hires make it easy to explore at a gentler pace, while those who prefer to keep their paws on solid ground you’ll find that there’s no shortage of dog-friendly cottages and campsites dotted around the area.
🐕🦺 Dog-Friendly Stops Along the Way
The Norfolk Broads is full of dog-welcoming places. Every day was a new sniffing adventure! Some of my favourite stops were:
🐶 Ranworth Broad: A lovely boardwalk stroll and a friendly pub that gave me water and a biscuit.
🐾 Wroxham: Dog-friendly cafés galore — one even had a sausage with my name on it (thanks, Chef!).
🐕 Horning: Cute riverside paths and lots of boats to watch. Perfect for a curious pup like me.
Exploring on Foot
The Broads aren’t just for boating — there are over 190 miles of walking trails to explore, many starting right from village moorings. Whether you prefer a short stroll or a longer adventure, there’s a route for every pace. Circular walks from local villages make it easy to discover hidden corners of the Broads, while several long-distance paths weave through the area.
Walking Trails and Long Routes
🐾 You can explore Wherryman’s Way, a scenic path along the River Yare from Norwich to Great Yarmouth.
🦴 Weavers’ Way takes walkers through the northern Broads, offering peaceful countryside views.
🐕 For stunning coastal scenery, try the nearby Norfolk Coast Path at Horsey and Winterton.
🐶 A shorter route, the Three Rivers Way, stretches from Hoveton to Horning and is perfect for a relaxed afternoon walk.
🚂 Dogs and humans who enjoy a mix of walking and sightseeing will love the dog-friendly Bure Valley Railway from Wroxham to Aylsham. It is totally pawsome! A walking route running alongside the line, is perfect for stretching your legs after a morning on the water.
History and Scenic Highlights
History lovers — both human and canine — will enjoy the Broads. Burgh Castle overlooks Breydon Water. Here lie the remains of a 3rd-century Roman fort, originally constructed to protect the coast from Saxon raiders. There’s an all-weather path, perfect for wheelchairs and dog strollers.
Not far from the rivers Bure, Ant and Thurne lie the ruins of St Benet’s Abbey. Quiet walks from the village of Ludham or from Ludham Bridge lead you to the Abbey, giving both pups and humans a peaceful mix of history and scenery.
Nestled in the heart of South Walsham, Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden is a fantastic spot. Its organically managed woodland is home to lots of wildlife, and there’s even a dog-friendly boat trip across the Broad.
Further east, Horsey Mere, managed by the National Trust, offers another opportunity for a short boat ride — perfect for spotting birds and enjoying the wide-open skies.
If you’re near Oulton Broad, Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve, run by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust, welcomes well-behaved dogs on leads. This location is a wonderful spot for a quieter, wildlife-focused walk. And for those combining a city visit to Norwich with a nature escape, Whitlingham Country Park at Trowse has an accessible path around the Great Broad.
Museum of The Broads
For doggies who love history a visit to the Museum of the Broads, near Stalham, is a must. You can learn all about the Broads’ history and how the shallow lakes were formed in medieval times. They appeared after peat excavations flooded and created the waterways we see today.
At the museum, you can enjoy two unique boat trips. The Falcon is a Victorian steamboat from 1895, used in both World Wars and now fully restored. The Marsh Harrier is an electric, weatherproof launch powered by solar panels. It’s also wheelchair accessible. Both boats let you drift along the rivers and enjoy the history and scenery — paws safely on board, of course.
Safety on the Broads
If you’re hiring a boat, make sure your humans get you a life jacket and wear it at all times. Never jump off before the boat is safely moored. The Broads aren’t suitable for swimming, but Salhouse Broad has a gentle slope perfect for paddling. Always stay under control, and don’t chase the wildlife — it’s their home, not a playground!
After my adventure, I can happily report that all the tales I’d heard about the Broads were true. With so many dog-friendly walks, boat trips and attractions, it’s a place where pups and their humans can explore, relax, and make lasting memories together.
Looking for more wag-worthy adventures? Sniff out our Doggy Tourist Guide and don’t forget to visit our homepage for the latest tips, adventures and dog-friendly Norfolk spots!
Woofs Ziggy Bear
For more information on everything mentioned here and lots more: contact the Broads National Park’s Hoveton/Wroxham Information Centre on 01603 782281 / 756097 or visit www.visitthebroads.co.uk.
Woofs Ziggy Bear
Join the Pack
Follow our daily adventures on social media, and don’t forget to woof about us to your friends!
