Ranworth

With two Broads and a nature trail - all overlooked by a spectacular medieval church offering staggering views from the top of its tower - Ranworth is a village not to be missed.

The lovely village and its scenic staithe occupy an enviable position on the edge of Malthouse Broad - a mecca for boaters in the summer and the only point of access if you are arriving by water.

The staithe has a lovely lawn that’s perfect for a picnic. Alternatively, you can relax at a tearoom overlooking the broad, enjoy an ice cream or stock up on supplies at the souvenir shop, which has a postbox. The Malsters pub is opposite the staithe and there are public toilets nearby.

We recommend visiting the Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Information Centre at the staithe. Next follow their boardwalk through woodland and reed bed to the trust’s unique floating conservation centre overlooking Ranworth’s second Broad – Ranworth Broad.

Ranworth Broad is cut off from general boat traffic as a sanctuary for wildlife but from the conservation centre you can enjoy an expansive view of the broad. Look out for rare wildlife including common terns nesting on a floating raft, marsh harriers and even visiting ospreys. Better still take a guided boat trip from the conservation centre to explore the broad with an expert from Norfolk Wildlife Trust.

MOORING

Ranworth Staithe Stern on moorings by a lovely green. Electric hook up available. Ranworth Island Stern on mooring away from the main village. Fee applies. You will need a dinghy to reach Ranworth village.

St Helens Church No visit to Ranworth would be complete without paying homage to the “Cathedral of the Broads” – St Helen’s Church – which dates back to 1450 and dominates the skyline. An unmissable rite of passage is climbing the 89 steps and two ladders to reach the top of the church tower and enjoy a stunning view (£2 donation). On a clear day five broads can be seen and even Norwich Cathedral and Happisburgh lighthouse! Make sure that you save time to look inside the church and admire one of finest medieval rood screens in the country. This has paintings of the Twelve Apostles on ornate woodwork dating back to 1456. Having survived the Reformation the screen was hidden behind whitewash until the 19th century before being painstakingly restored in the 1960s. Information boards help you to learn more about the paintings and their fascinating history. The church also has a lovely visitors centre, tea room and gallery in a converted cart shed (see Eating Out).

Eating Out

The Maltsters Family friendly pub serving traditional fayre and real ales. Located opposite Ranworth Staithe with a large terrace and garden overlooking the broad. 01603 270900 www.ranworthmaltsters.com

Granary Stores and Tea Room Beautiful spot on Ranworth Staithe with a Post Office and shop. Serves tea, cakes and light bites. 01603 270432

Ranworth Visitor Centre Tea Room at St Helen’s Church Lovely tea room in a converted cart shed, with a terrace and garden. Located behind St Helen’s Church. 01603 270340 www.broadsideparishes.org.uk/visitors/ visitors_centre.htm