Top 10 Lakes around Rockland Saint Mary
Best lakes around Rockland Saint Mary are situated in a picturesque South Norfolk village, forming part of the renowned Norfolk Broads. This area features significant freshwater lakes, extensive reed beds, and connections to the River Yare. It provides a tranquil environment for nature observation and outdoor activities, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic walking routes.
Best lakes around Rockland Saint Mary
- The most popular lakes is Whitlingham Great Broad, a lake that is one of two lakes in…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Thorpe Marshes Nature Reserve
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Close to the River Yare, the area …
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Ranworth Broad Village and Waterfront
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The village has moorings, a pub and village …
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Whitlingham Great Broad
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RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve
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Buckenham Marshes Nature Reserve
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Popular around Rockland Saint Mary
Windmills, wildlife and waterways – best walks in the Broads National Park
Hiking around Rockland Saint Mary
Cycling around Rockland Saint Mary
Road Cycling Routes around Rockland Saint Mary
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Tips from the Community
You can't see that much of the marshes from the road but the woods are very pleasant.
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Very scenic spot, ideal for a cafe stop. Granary Stores shop and cafe is open 8.30-9pm 7 days a week!
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Buckenham Marshes is a nature reserve situated on the northern bank of the River Yare. It’s home to a variety of wildlife including wading birds, ducks and geese. The reserve is also an important breeding ground for lapwings, redshanks and other bird species. Visitor Buckenham Marshes to enjoy walking trails and bird hides, as well as the opportunity to see many different bird species.
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Buckenham Marshes is a wetland habitat located in the heart of the Norfolk Broads. The marshes are home to a diversity of animal and bird species, and are especially known for their large flocks of wintering wading birds, including lapwings and golden clovers.
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Thorpe Marshes is a diverse habitat situated in Norwich, offering walkers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The marshes feature reed beds, wet meadows, and open water, which provide a home for a diverse range of bird species such as kingfishers, herons, and terns.
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Located on the edge of Norwich, Thorpe Marshes is a wonderful mixture of habitats in a nature reserve managed by Norfolk Wildlife Trust. Close to the River Yare, the area is covered in wildflower marshes and dykes. You may spot dragonfly, damselfly and butterfly here, as well as many waterbirds. Chinese water deer, and smaller Muntjac deer have also taken up residence.
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Ranworth is a picture postcard village in the heart of the Broads alongside Ranworth and Malthouse Broad just off the River Bure. The village has moorings, a pub and village store and the church is known for exceptional views once you have climbed the tower, with a huge area of the Broads visible from the top. The National Trust has a floating Broads Wildlife Centre that is reached by a boardwalk from the village and has a panoramic vista across the water. .
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Great place have a break, several public benches &picnic tables, drinking water tap (intended for boaters but available to all), cafe and shop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for wildlife spotting around Rockland Saint Mary?
For exceptional wildlife observation, visit RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve, which offers year-round displays of birds like barn owls, great crested grebes, and kingfishers. You can also spot otters and water voles around Rockland Broad. Buckenham Marshes Nature Reserve is ideal for watching birds of prey and wintering wading birds, as well as hares and Chinese water deer.
Are there family-friendly lakes and activities near Rockland Saint Mary?
Yes, several spots are great for families. Whitlingham Great Broad in Whitlingham Country Park is popular for water sports and has a cycle path. RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve offers pushchair and wheelchair-friendly paths. The village of Rockland St Mary also has a children's play area.
What kind of walking routes can I find near the lakes?
The area offers a variety of walking routes. The Wherryman's Way, a long-distance footpath, skirts the edges of Rockland Broad, providing scenic walks. There's a popular 5.25-mile route offering views of the broad and the River Yare, and an easy-access path leads to a bird hide. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Rockland Saint Mary, which includes routes like the 'Rockland Ramble'.
Can I go wild swimming or do other water sports in the lakes?
Yes, Whitlingham Great Broad is a popular spot for water sports, including wild swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. Rockland Broad offers calm waters for peaceful boating, though it has very little boat traffic.
What amenities are available near the lakes in Rockland Saint Mary?
The village of Rockland St Mary, accessible from Rockland Broad, offers amenities such as The New Inn pub, a children's play area, and a post office store. Ranworth Broad Village and Waterfront also has moorings, a pub, a village store, and a cafe.
Are there accessible paths for wheelchairs or pushchairs around the lakes?
Yes, the RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve, which borders Rockland Broad, offers pushchair and wheelchair-friendly paths with superb views over the broad and the River Yare.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Rockland Saint Mary?
The reedbeds and open grazing marshes at places like RSPB Rockland Marshes Nature Reserve afford year-round displays of wildlife. Summer offers opportunities to observe pike in the clear waters of Rockland Broad. Winter can be excellent for spotting wading birds at Buckenham Marshes Nature Reserve.
Where can I find fishing opportunities near Rockland Saint Mary?
Rockland Broad is known for its excellent fishing, particularly for pike in its clear, shallow waters. Other species include bream, roach, tench, and perch. Both boat fishing and shore angling are popular activities.
Are there other nature reserves to explore besides Rockland Broad?
Yes, to the east of Rockland Broad lies the Wheatfen Nature Reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It's renowned for its fenland biodiversity and offers various trails through its magical fen and wet woodland habitat.
What do visitors enjoy most about Rockland Broad?
Visitors appreciate Rockland Broad for its tranquil environment and opportunities to observe wildlife, especially pike in its clear waters during summer. It's a peaceful spot with very little boat traffic, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet escape.
Are there cycling routes available near the lakes?
Yes, a cycle path leads along the water's edge at Whitlingham Great Broad. For more cycling options, you can explore the MTB Trails guide for Rockland Saint Mary, which includes routes around the area.
Where can I find a pub or cafe near the lakes?
In Rockland St Mary village, you'll find The New Inn pub. Additionally, Ranworth Broad Village and Waterfront offers a pub and a cafe, making it a scenic spot for a break.
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