Your Next Family Adventure: A Holiday with Barnes Brinkcraft on the Norfolk Broads
Love the Outdoors? Need to Keep the Kids Entertained? We’ve Got You Covered!
If your idea of a great holiday involves fresh air, wildlife, adventure, and a comfy base (with WiFi, though in a few spots, you might need to reconnect with nature instead).”), then Barnes Brinkcraft is for you. Whether you’re wrangling a gang of energetic kids, bringing the grandparents along for the ride, or just looking for quality time together, our boats and riverside cottages tick all the boxes.
Yes, we have sunsets and swans. Yes, there’s space for the kids to run wild (without trashing your living room). And yes, there are pubs for when you need a well-earned break.
Why Choose a Norfolk Broads Holiday?
Ever tried keeping a 10-year-old entertained for a week without resorting to screens? We have – and we’ve cracked it. At Barnes Brinkcraft, we offer spotless, well-maintained holiday boats and cottages, (and we’ve won an award to prove it) ranging from budget-friendly to full-on luxury. Whether you’re up for an adventure on the water or just fancy mooring up and exploring, we’ve got the perfect escape for you.
What Makes Our Holidays Awesome?
- No noisy neighbours – just the odd duck, heron, or (if you’re lucky) an otter.
- Sustainable travel – swap long-haul flights for an eco-friendly electric boat.
- Nature at your doorstep – spot kingfishers, watch the sun set over the river, and gaze at the stars.
- History with a side of adventure – medieval ruins, quirky museums, and a touch of pirate spirit.
- Dog-friendly – because why should the dog miss out?
- Flexible accommodation – boats and cottages for families of all shapes and sizes.
Why Staycation Instead of Jetting Off?
We know, sunny beaches are tempting. But hear us out:
✅ No airport queues – just hop in the car and go.
✅ No baggage limits – bring the paddleboards, fishing rods, and three extra pairs of shoes “just in case.”
✅ Bragging Rights – Swap the typical beach snaps for tales of navigating serene waterways, spotting elusive otters, and mooring beside medieval ruins. It’s a holiday story that’ll make your friends wish they’d thought of it first.
✅ A real adventure – the Broads are like a natural theme park, minus the extortionate entry fees.
When to Visit
School holidays are prime time for family adventures! Book during Easter, May half-term, summer holidays, or October half-term for the best experience.
Your Family-Friendly Norfolk Broads Itinerary
Forget “I’m bored!” – here’s a week of adventure, wildlife, and memory-making for kids and grown-ups alike.
🚤 Day 1: Salhouse Broad – Mooring Practice & Marshmallow Roasting
Arrive, get the hang of mooring (you’ll be a pro by the end of the trip), and let the kids loose on the natural beach. They can paddleboard, build dens, or try spotting shooting stars from the stargazing platform. Hungry? Grab snacks from The Hungry Otter. Need a pint? A short stroll gets you to one of three great pubs.
🦆 Day 2: Horning & How Hill – Otter Spotting & Secret Gardens
Stop at Horning for supplies (and an ice cream), then steer through Ludham Bridge and moor up at How Hill. Explore the tiny Toad Hole Cottage, hop on an Electric Eel Boat Tour, or just run wild in the gardens. Fancy a magical evening? Drop anchor at Barton Broad and watch the stars.
🏛️ Day 3: Stalham – Time Travel at the Museum of the Broads
Refuel in Stalham, then head to the Museum of the Broads for a trip back in time. It’s a quirky mix of history, nostalgia, and fun facts to impress the grandparents.
🏰 Day 4: St Benet’s Abbey & Womack Staithe – Ruins & Riverside Strolls
Sail to St Benet’s Abbey, where the kids can roam free among the atmospheric ruins (bonus points if they invent a ghost story). Moor at Womack Staithe for an afternoon of riverside walks and village exploring.
🍟 Day 5: Potter Heigham & Thurne Dyke – Shopping & Chips
Potter Heigham means two things: Lathams (a must-visit for quirky bargains) and fish & chips by the bridge. After lunch, moor at Thurne Dyke, photograph the windmill, or grab a drink at The Thurne Lion.
🏞️ Day 6: Ranworth Broad – Climbing & Wildlife
Finish the trip at Ranworth Broad. Challenge the kids (and yourself) to climb the church tower for jaw-dropping views. Spot wildlife, enjoy the tranquility, and soak in the last day of adventure.
🚢 Day 7: Back to Reality
Time to return the boat – but don’t forget to share your best holiday snaps with us for our 2025 photo competition!
Planning Your Stay
Boats & Cottages
From cozy hideaways to spacious family-friendly stays.
What’s Included?
Safety gear, maps, and everything you need to be a boat captain (minus the hat, sadly).
What to Pack?
- Layers (because, well, British weather).
- Sturdy shoes (for muddy adventures).
- A sense of adventure (non-negotiable).
Ready to Book?
Start your Norfolk Broads adventure with Barnes Brinkcraft today. Easy booking, personal service, and family memories that’ll last a lifetime.
Further Reading & Resources:
🔹 Choose Your Perfect Hire Boat
🔹 Norfolk Wildlife Trust Reserves