Ormesby St. Margaret with Scratby
Ormesby St. Margaret with Scratby
Top 7 Lakes around Ormesby St. Margaret with Scratby
Best lakes around Ormesby St. Margaret with Scratby are primarily found within the Trinity Broads, a unique group of five interconnected freshwater lakes. These broads are non-tidal and not navigable by motorboats, contributing to a quieter atmosphere and clear water quality. The area is a haven for wildlife, offering a distinct experience compared to other parts of the Norfolk Broads. This region provides opportunities for nature observation, walking, and appreciating the natural landscape.
Best lakes around Ormesby St. Margaret with…
Last updated: July 15, 2026
Breydon Water Nature Reserve
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Horsey Mere
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Heigham Sound
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Martham Broad Nature Reserve
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Upton Broad and Marshes Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
Great little viewing area with a couple of benches and a great view over the Mere.
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A gorgeous reserve in the heart of the Broads, Upton Broad and Marshes hosts several distinctive habitats. Its mix of alder carr woodland, fen, reedbed and grazing marsh makes it a haven for some of the region's most coveted wildlife, including the swallowtail butterfly. You might also see water voles, otters and a huge range of dragonflies, with over 20 recorded species.
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In the winter months this area can become quite water logged. Remember to close any gates behind you to ensure the Konik Ponies don't escape when they are in the reserve.
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Every year, over 64,000 birds visit Berney Marshes and Breydon Water Nature Reserve. You will find pink-footed geese, wigeons, lapwings and many more species. The reserve is particularly spectacular in winter when thousands of wintering ducks, geese and swans come to the estuary and marshes. The reserve is open at all times and entrance is free. You can find more information, here: https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/berney-marshes-breydon-water/
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Breydon Water is a marshy expanse along the River Yare. As very few roads cross these slippery silt flats, this area is one of the most isolated in The Broads. As such, birds flourish here and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) manages quite a large part, maintaining it as a nature reserve to encourage both rare and common species.
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Managed by Norfolk Wildlife Trust, Martham Broad is a magnificent place to visit. The nature reserve is home to breeding birds including bittern, bearded tit, common tern, Cetti’s warbler and marsh harrier. Stately common cranes use the reserve and the site is excellent for swallowtails and many other invertebrates. Otters and Chinese water deer are relatively easily observed here, too.
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Horsey Mere is regarded as one of the most beautiful of the northern broads. Close to the Norfolk coast, Horsey's reed beds and grazing marshes offer a habitat of international importance for birds, including wigeon, teal, shoveller, pochard, gadwall, goldeneye, tufted duck, bitterns, stonechats, yellow wagtails, and grasshopper warblers. You might even spot two rare warblers here; Cetti's and Savi's. According to folklore, on 13th June every year the screams of drowned children can be heard from the mere.
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Heigham Sound is a clear lake that's popular with sailors and boaters. It's home to an abundance of rare birds and insects at all times of year, too. At this spot, between meadows and Heigham Sound, with boats floating on the water and the sound of birdsong flowing through the air, you can experience a slice of Norfolk’s rural idyll.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Ormesby St. Margaret with Scratby unique?
The lakes in this area, primarily the Trinity Broads (Ormesby, Filby, and Rollesby Broads), are unique because they are non-tidal and not navigable by motorboats. This 'land-locked' nature contributes to their quieter atmosphere and exceptionally clear water quality, making them a haven for wildlife and offering a distinct experience compared to other parts of the Norfolk Broads.
Are there good walking opportunities around the lakes?
Yes, the area offers excellent walking opportunities. You can enjoy afternoon strolls around Ormesby Broad, or explore the public boardwalk at Filby Broad for views. Rollesby Broad also has several viewing areas and picnic sites. For more structured routes, consider exploring the hiking trails around Ormesby St. Margaret with Scratby.
Which lakes are best for nature and wildlife observation?
The entire Trinity Broads area is rich in wildlife. Horsey Mere is known for its reed beds and grazing marshes, providing an international habitat for birds like wigeon and bitterns. Breydon Water Nature Reserve attracts over 64,000 birds annually, especially in winter. Filby Broad is a peaceful location for spotting rare wildfowl, grebes, and terns, while Upton Broad and Marshes Nature Reserve is a haven for swallowtail butterflies, water voles, otters, and dragonflies.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly options. Filby Broad provides free parking and short, easy walks suitable for families with pushchairs. At Rollesby Broad, the Waterside Restaurant and Cafe offers boat trips, mini-golf, and a play area. Many of the walking trails around the lakes are also suitable for families.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes?
Many areas around the lakes are dog-friendly, but restrictions may apply in certain nature reserve sections to protect wildlife. For example, dog restrictions apply in some areas around Filby Broad. Horsey Mere is generally considered dog-friendly.
What are the best times to visit the Trinity Broads for wildlife viewing?
The Trinity Broads are excellent for wildlife viewing year-round. Winter is particularly spectacular at Breydon Water Nature Reserve when thousands of wintering ducks, geese, and swans arrive. Filby Broad also attracts rare wildfowl during winter. Spring and summer offer opportunities to see nesting birds, butterflies, and dragonflies.
Where can I find parking near the lakes?
Filby Broad offers free parking, making it convenient for visitors. Other viewing areas and access points around Ormesby and Rollesby Broads also typically have parking facilities. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations.
What kind of water activities are popular on these lakes?
Due to the non-tidal and motorboat-free nature of the Trinity Broads, they are ideal for quieter water activities. Sailing is popular on Ormesby Broad and Rollesby Broad, with the Rollesby Broad Sailing Club offering year-round opportunities. Fishing is also a favored activity, especially on Rollesby Broad, known for its abundant pike and perch. Heigham Sound is also popular with sailors.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
Yes, there are dining options available. The Boathouse restaurant overlooks Ormesby Little Broad, offering views and a garden area. The Waterside Restaurant and Cafe overlooks Rollesby Broad. The village of Filby, adjacent to Filby Broad, is also known for its amenities.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
Beyond walking and water activities, the region offers various outdoor pursuits. You can explore running trails or enjoy road cycling routes that wind through the countryside and past the waterways of the broader Norfolk Broads National Park.
Are the lakes accessible for people with limited mobility?
While public access to the broads themselves can be limited in some areas, Filby Broad features a public boardwalk on its north-west side, which allows for viewing and is generally suitable for those with pushchairs or limited mobility. Short, easy walks with nice views are available around Filby Broad.
What is the historical significance of the lakes?
The broads, including Ormesby Broad, were formed from medieval peat diggings. Evidence suggests that Ormesby Broad began filling with water in the early 14th century after peat extraction became impossible due to flooding, transforming industrial sites into the natural landscapes we see today.
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