Hickling Broad and Marshes

Potter Heigham Bridge

We are off to Hickling Broads, stopping off at Potter Heigham on the River Thurne on the way. A village noted for its medieval bridge dating from 1385. Allegedly the most difficult to navigate on the Broads. This was backed up too as we saw a small cruiser get its awning stuck under the bridge. he bridge opening is so narrow that only small cruisers can pass through it, and then only at low water. We walked along the 'Weavers Way' as far as the Tower Windmill. Built in 1849 it is now a domestic dwelling. 

Bird Hide

Hickling Broad is under the protection of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. A haven for many of the UK's rarest plants and animals. the largest individual Broad by surface area in the Norfolk Broads, covering approximately 600 hectares (1,500 acres). Home to Britain’s largest butterfly – the swallowtail – as well as birds such as bittern, common crane, and a wide variety of Fenland plants. With its wide open skies, reed beds, woodland and unspoilt landscape, it offers a perfect place for a walk any time of year. Having paid our fees we have a boat to catch to get up close with nature. There are plenty of 'Norfolk Hawker' Dragonflies checking out the boat. We might get to see Britain's largest Butterfly the 'Swallowtail'. We might see birds such as, Bitterns,common Cranes and Marsh Harriers. A pair of Shelducks fly past and a Hobby is on the wing taking down insects. The navigation channel is only 1.5 m deep, with much of the broad being shallower. Nearby sea levels and storms play a major part in the water levels. 

Hickling Broad was used as reserve station for sea planes by the Royal Naval Air Service in the period 1916–1918.But was only used for two emergency landings.We make our way across the water to a viewing platform, or tower offering great views. It stands at 60ft (11m) and provides a viewpoint across the area's waterways and trees towards the coast.  

Looking to the left it is possible to see the top of the Lighthouse at Happisburgh. Straight ahead beyond the trees would be Winterton on Sea. 

As we return on the boat to our starting point, there are clouds of black smoke in the distance. It is further afield than the Broads but someone has reported that it might be the viewing tower. Our guide is quick to radio back that we have just left that area and all is well. I have the tune 'Smoke on the Water' by 'Deep Purple' running through my head. It has been a good trip , lasted about an hour and a good way to see the expanse of water. After disembarking we continue our circuit on foot around the water. We do get our first view of Marsh Harriers as we pass Bygrave's Marsh    towards Brendan's Marsh. The Spinney nearby is said to be the best place to see the Swallowtail. Unfortunately on this occasion we were out of luck.

Brendan's Marsh

Instead of turning back towards the Visitor Centre we take the trail towards Stubb Mill. A good place to spot the elusive Adder basking in the sun.Not much sun today so somewhat unlikely. The best time is early Spring, after they emerge from hibernation  and they look for a warm sunny spot to raise their body temperature to become active. They are very sensitive to noise and vibration though , disappearing to cover at the slightest threat.   

Stubb Mill

 There are more Windmills in the Broads than anywhere else in the UK. By around 1800 there were 50 drainage mills on the Broads. By 1825 there were over 100. Just past the mill is a superb spot to watch Raptors roosting. The viewpoint is best visited in the winter months (Oct - Mar), when counts of both species using the site will be at their highest. On a winter's evening, the harrier roost may also be used by small numbers of Hen Harrier. Occasionally Merlin and Short Eared Owls can be seen along with regulars Barn Owl and Great Egret.Making our way back on the trail I spot a beautiful Hare in the field. I manage to get over the hedge and get reasonably close.   

Raptor Roosting site

Brown Hare

It has been a really lovely visit and a lot of wildlife has been seen. Just enough time left to pay a visit to the 'Pleasure Boat' PH for much needed refreshment. It is actually owned by the NWT. So each pint consumed is going towards helping nature.I'll drink to that !