Best lakes around Mulbarton are situated in the rural landscape of Norfolk, England. This area is characterized by its flat terrain and numerous 'broads,' which are shallow lakes formed by medieval peat excavations. The region offers a mix of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, with several bodies of water providing habitats for wildlife and spaces for outdoor activities. Mulbarton Common also features ponds and natural features.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
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A broad is the local name for a body of water. This one was created from a former gravel pit in conjunction with the landscaping of the universities grounds. It's pretty and a haven for wildlife, but its steep sides reduce the wetland habitat that would normally surround a lake of this size.
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It’s a fantastic place for a leisurely walk or a paddle in a canoe, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
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Whitlingham Country Park is where the majesty of the Broads meets the buzz of the city. Just a short walk from Norwich's centre, the serene trails here are adored by locals and visitors alike. There's a cafe, an adventure centre and trails that explore the park's woodlands and meadows.
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You can't see that much of the marshes from the road but the woods are very pleasant.
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Thorpe Marshes is a diverse habitat situated in Norwich, offering walkers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The marshes feature reed beds, wet meadows, and open water, which provide a home for a diverse range of bird species such as kingfishers, herons, and terns.
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Located on the edge of Norwich, Thorpe Marshes is a wonderful mixture of habitats in a nature reserve managed by Norfolk Wildlife Trust. Close to the River Yare, the area is covered in wildflower marshes and dykes. You may spot dragonfly, damselfly and butterfly here, as well as many waterbirds. Chinese water deer, and smaller Muntjac deer have also taken up residence.
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Great stretch of road with lake views all the way. also a footpath running parallel to the road and lake.
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Use of the water is managed by Whitlingham Adventure; https://www.whitlinghamadventure.org.uk/ Craft hire and private craft can be used on the lake between April and October. Open water swimming sessions are on Wednesday afternoons and Sunday mornings and are run by Tri-anglia; https://tri-anglia.club/
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The most popular lake is Whitlingham Great Broad, which is part of Whitlingham Country Park. It's known for water sports like wild swimming and stand-up paddleboarding, and a cycle path runs along its edge. Another notable spot is the University of East Anglia Broad, a haven for wildlife created from a former gravel pit.
Yes, both Whitlingham Great Broad and the University of East Anglia Broad are considered family-friendly. The Whitlingham Great Broad Cycleway offers a circular path suitable for families to enjoy cycling or walking with views over the water.
The lakes around Mulbarton, often referred to as 'broads,' are shallow lakes formed by medieval peat excavations. They provide diverse habitats for wildlife. For example, the University of East Anglia Broad is a known haven for wildlife. You can also expect to see various waterfowl and enjoy peaceful nature along the water's edge at Whitlingham Great Broad.
You can enjoy various activities such as cycling, walking, wild swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding. The Whitlingham Great Broad Cycleway is popular for cycling and offers fantastic views. For hiking, you can explore routes like the easy 'Hiking loop from Mulbarton' or moderate trails like 'The World's End – Waterfall Near Mulbarton loop from Mulbarton'. Find more hiking options at Hiking around Mulbarton.
Yes, there is a popular circular cycle path, the Whitlingham Great Broad Cycleway, which runs around Whitlingham Broad. It features a compact surface and offers excellent views over the water. A cycle path also leads along the water's edge through peaceful nature at Whitlingham Great Broad.
There is a cafe at the south-west corner of Whitlingham Broad, called Flint Barn, which is conveniently located along the Whitlingham Great Broad Cycleway. Another cafe, the Barn Cafe, is also mentioned as a place to get coffee near Whitlingham Great Broad.
Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the peaceful nature and beautiful views from the cycle paths around Whitlingham Great Broad. The area is also valued for its diverse habitats for wildlife and the chance to observe waterfowl, sailors, rowers, or open water swimmers.
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can find routes like the 'Running loop from Mulbarton' or 'Gatehouse to the Manor loop from Mulbarton', which range from moderate difficulty. More running options can be found at Running Trails around Mulbarton.
Yes, the area offers gravel biking opportunities. Routes such as 'Marriott's Way – Marriott's Way loop from Bowthorpe Marsh' or 'Abbot's Farm Track – The Globe Pub loop from Norwich' are available. For more gravel biking routes, visit Gravel biking around Mulbarton.
In the Norfolk region, a 'broad' is the local name for a body of water, typically a shallow lake. These broads, like the University of East Anglia Broad, were often created from former gravel pits or medieval peat excavations, contributing to the unique landscape of the area.
Whitlingham Country Park features two lakes, with Whitlingham Great Broad being one of them. The park offers a wonderful expanse of countryside along the River Yare.


Still not found your perfect lake around Mulbarton? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.