Tuesday, 6 March 2012

Easter Boating Breaks on the Norfolk Broads, England

When considering locations for an Easter break, imagine venturing to the Norfolk Broads in England and enjoy fantastic scenery, boating excursions and local attractions. The historic destination on England’s eastern coast entails over 100 miles of water highways that connect villages inhabited for a millennia or longer. Think Venice, but rural and picturesque, with quaint cottages and homes, the opportunity to indulge in bird watching or explore some of the country’s history. Boating breaks in the Norfolk broads offers something for every member of the family. Couples might also turn the journey into a romantic getaway.

Some believe the Norfolk Broads originated with the Romans, who cleared land for building construction. Excavating the ground produced peat, which was commonly used for fuel. Digging for this ancient treasure continued with the development of monasteries and priories, as monastic orders not only used peat as a natural resource, but also sold the fuel as a means of supporting the church.



Shown above a picturesque scene from Hunslett Mill on the Norfolk Broads.

The practice continued into the Middle Ages. Eventually, these excavated sites filled with water from the sea, creating a lush wetland environment. Though villages were accessible by roads, the waterways provided another means of transportation and routes for trade. Over the centuries, boating became a popular pastime, along with fishing and other aquatic activities.

Guests have many options for accommodations when journeying to the Norfolk Broads. Many communities have bed and breakfasts, self-catering cottages, guest houses or hotels located along the scenic rivers. Bed and breakfasts and guest houses typically offer fully furnished rooms with general areas supplied with TVs, DVD players and Wi-Fi access. Many offer continental breakfast as part of the tariff.

Self-catering facilities such as Norfolk apartments ensure guests have all the comforts of home, requiring visitors only bring personal items and food. Some cottages also furnish boats and fishing gear. Prices vary for short breaks, which start around £165 ($261 USD) for a couple, to around £1,000 ($1,585 USD) for an entire week in family sized accommodations.

Boating is a common means of getting from one location to another during the spring, summer and fall months. Visitors see boats of all shapes and sizes on the waterways, from canoes and kayaks to one person sail boats, yachts, power boats and multi-decked Victorian river boats.


The photo above shows yachts on the Norfolk Broads.

Communities along the river commonly have boat hire facilities. A small craft may hire for anywhere from £15 ($24 USD) for the pleasure of an hour’s use, or £150 ($238 USD) for the opportunity of sailing a modern power boat for a few hours. Companies also hire out expansive cruising boats equipped with kitchens, living areas and sleeping berths. This luxurious alternative to conventional accommodations generally costs £722 ($1,145 USD) for short breaks and £1,026 ($1,627 USD) for staying in the craft for an entire week.

Most people enjoy travelling the scenic waterways while viewing river front properties. Some homes resemble quaint medieval cottages, while other locations features lavish modern estates. Travel from the small villages or to the larger cities, finding interesting activities along the way. A family day out might take guests to the BeWILDerwood in Wroxham (http://www.bewilderwood.co.uk/where children from the age of two enjoy exploring the rope bridges, slides and tree houses, along with other building and learning exhibits.



The photo above shows the Norfolk Broads at the popular Wroxham stop off.

History buffs relish exploring ancient Norwich, with its medieval buildings that include an authentic Norman castle. Constructed by William the Conqueror in 1067, the castle became a museum in the late 1800’s. The estate allows guests to tour the property and learn about local history from Roman times. Learn the interesting story of the Iceni tribe and their fearless female leader Boudicca, who had some successful battles against the Roman Empire.

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