The Broads National Park is Britain’s largest protected wetland, with 125 miles of navigable waterways meandering through beautiful, open countryside. The best way to explore this magnificent area is by kayaking the Norfolk Broads. You’ll find hidden gems unreachable by road, and close encounters with wildlife amongst the peaceful scenery. Moor up to explore one of the many picturesque villages or grab some lunch at a lovely pub, you’ll never get tired of kayaking the Norfolk Broads! Check out my essential tips below to help get you started planning your next trip.

What licence do you need for kayaking the Norfolk Broads

The Norfolk Broads are managed by the Broads Authority and a licence is required for boating and paddling on the waterways. If you plan to use your vessel for more than 28 days within the financial year, you should purchase an annual toll. The current price for an annual toll for non-powered craft, such as kayaks, is £49. For anything less than 28 days, you can purchase a short-visit toll (7 – 14 days). The current price is £11 for 1 – 7 days or £22 for 8 – 14 days.

Alternatively, if you are a member of Paddle UK you will already be licensed for canoeing, paddle boarding or kayaking the Norfolk Broads waterways, without paying the Broads Authority toll. Paddle UK membership is currently £60 per year and covers over 4,500 km of waterways in the UK.

Kayaking the Norfolk Broads - Wroxham

Tides and navigation

The Norfolk Broads are tidal rivers which means the water level changes depending on the state of the tide. For kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding the Broads can generally be enjoyed at any tidal range. However, it’s still a good idea to be aware of the conditions as they may affect how difficult it is to paddle.

Paddling in the lower reaches of the Broads is not recommended unless you are very experienced and able. This is because the tides here are much stronger making it more difficult to control the kayak.

Breydon Water has particularly strong currents and unique characteristics. It is possible to kayak on Breydon Water, but more careful planning is required. It is recommended to only kayak here at slack water (1 hour either side of high or low tide) when the currents are the weakest. There is also specific information for navigating Breydon Water which should be followed.

Although more of an issue for larger boats, a few of the lower bridges may have limited clearance on particularly high tides.

Norfolk Broads kayak hire

If you don’t have your own kayak or canoe, there are plenty of places you can hire from. Check out Visit the Broads for a list and map of boat hire and tour facilities. Some top choices include:

  • TheCanoeMan – Seven hire stations across the Broads, plus adventure days and tours.
  • Salhouse Broad – Canoe and Kayak hire at Salhouse Broad, near Wroxham. Also offer camping.
  • Sutton Staithe – Quieter section of the Norfolk Broads close to the Sutton RSPB Reserve.
  • Three Rivers – Located in Geldeston, on the River Waveney. Also offer camping.

If you’re looking for your own kayak check out my post on the best inflatable kayaks for your next adventure.

Kayaking the Norfolk Broads

Kayaking etiquette on the Norfolk Broads

The Paddler’s Code website is a great resource for paddling safely and responsibly, particularly if you are new to the sport. Here are some key points to remember:

Always wear a buoyancy aid – No matter how experienced you are as a swimmer, a buoyancy aid will always help to keep you safer.

Stick to the right hand side, unless unsafe to do so – River craft must always keep to the right hand side of the channel. If you are being overtaken on the left, keep right until the vessel has passed and be aware of any wake from larger vessels.

Don’t swim in the rivers or broads – There may be unknown and hidden dangers that can put you and others at risk, so it’s important to stay in your kayak.

Try not to disturb wildlife – Spring and summer are important months for breeding birds and otters. Don’t paddle too close to the river bank to avoid disturbing nesting birds and other wildlife.

Avoid trespassing in privately owned areas – Although most of the Broads is publicly accessible there are some areas that are privately owned, such as the Trinity Broads. These areas should have signage to indicate they are private.

In an emergency, call 999 – If you do have an emergency in or next to the water, call 999 and ask for the coastguard. To help with locating you, what3words is a useful tool.

Kayaking the Norfolk Broads - River Bure

Resources