Top 7 Lakes around Howe
Best lakes around Howe are characterized by their tranquil settings within the Norfolk Broads, featuring a network of rivers, broads, and marshes. This region offers a diverse landscape for outdoor activities, including walking, nature observation, and various water sports. The area is known for its wetland habitats, supporting a variety of wildlife and providing serene environments for exploration. Visitors can experience both expansive waterways and secluded natural reserves.
Best lakes around Howe
- The most popular lakes is Whitlingham Great Broad…
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Thorpe Marshes Nature Reserve
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Close to the River Yare, the area …
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Whitlingham Great Broad
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RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve
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Whitlingham Country Park
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Buckenham Marshes Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
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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Buckenham Marshes is a nature reserve situated on the northern bank of the River Yare. It’s home to a variety of wildlife including wading birds, ducks and geese. The reserve is also an important breeding ground for lapwings, redshanks and other bird species. Visitor Buckenham Marshes to enjoy walking trails and bird hides, as well as the opportunity to see many different bird species.
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Buckenham Marshes is a wetland habitat located in the heart of the Norfolk Broads. The marshes are home to a diversity of animal and bird species, and are especially known for their large flocks of wintering wading birds, including lapwings and golden clovers.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes to visit around Howe?
Among the most popular lakes is Whitlingham Great Broad, known for water sports like wild swimming and stand-up paddleboarding, and its cycle path. Another favorite is Rockland Broad, a tranquil spot ideal for wildlife spotting.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Howe?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Whitlingham Great Broad in Whitlingham Country Park offers cycling and water activities. RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve and Buckenham Marshes Nature Reserve provide opportunities for nature observation and easy walks, suitable for all ages.
Where can I go for nature observation and birdwatching near Howe?
The Howe region, part of the Norfolk Broads, is excellent for nature. Visit RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve for year-round displays of various bird species like barn owls and kingfishers. Buckenham Marshes Nature Reserve is also a prime spot for birds of prey and wintering wading birds, as well as hares and Chinese water deer.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Howe?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling along the River Yare near Whitlingham Great Broad, or try wild swimming and stand-up paddleboarding there. For walking and hiking, explore the trails at RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve and Buckenham Marshes Nature Reserve. For more structured routes, check out the running trails, cycling routes, and easy hikes available in the region.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming in the lakes around Howe?
Yes, Whitlingham Great Broad is a popular spot for wild swimming, as well as stand-up paddleboarding and other water sports.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at the lakes near Howe?
The lakes and surrounding marshes are rich in wildlife. At RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve, you can spot barn owls, great crested grebes, kingfishers, and various warblers. Buckenham Marshes Nature Reserve is known for birds of prey like marsh harriers and peregrine falcons, alongside hares, stoats, and Chinese water deer. Rockland Broad is home to large pike, visible in the clear water during summer.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Howe?
The Howe region offers different experiences throughout the year. The reedbeds and grazing marshes at RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve provide year-round displays of bird species. Buckenham Marshes Nature Reserve is particularly notable for large flocks of wintering wading birds. Summer is ideal for water sports at Whitlingham Great Broad and spotting pike at Rockland Broad.
Are there any unique or hidden spots to explore near Howe's lakes?
Rockland Broad is described as a tranquil spot tucked away behind the River Yare, offering calm waters and fewer boats. For an unusual sight, you can view the Quarry Conveyor Belt and Lake View, where you can see flooded gravel pits and a working conveyor belt from the roadside.
Can I find walking trails around the lakes in Howe?
Yes, there are several walking opportunities. Whitlingham Great Broad has a cycle path that is also suitable for walking along the water's edge. Both RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve and Buckenham Marshes Nature Reserve feature walking trails and bird hides, perfect for exploring the wetland habitats. You can also find more easy hikes around Howe.
What makes the lakes around Howe special?
The lakes around Howe are special due to their tranquil settings within the Norfolk Broads, offering a unique network of rivers, broads, and marshes. They provide diverse landscapes for outdoor activities, from water sports to peaceful nature observation. The region is known for its wetland habitats, supporting a variety of wildlife and offering serene environments for exploration, appreciated by the komoot community for their beauty and accessibility.
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