NWT Hickling Broad and Marshes National Nature Reserve

Hickling Broad and Marshes is a special place for wildlife and people alike, with awe-inspiring Broadland wildlife to watch and plenty of hidden corners to discover.

In spring and summer, Hickling comes alive with birdsong: cuckoos call from willow scrub, bitterns boom in the reedbeds and an array of warblers sing from dawn to dusk. Visit during this time and you may spot tumbling marsh harriers, spoonbills feeding on flooded pools, and egrets stalking along the dyke edges. During early summer, swallowtail butterflies emerge, joined by Norfolk hawker dragonflies and other colourful and fascinating invertebrates. Autumn and winter are just as vibrant, with many migrating birds using Hickling as a place to rest and feed. A visit to the nearby lookout platform at Stubb Mill may reward you with merlins, barn owls, and calling cranes, all coming to roost for the night.

Whether you’re planning a gentle walk under Norfolk’s wide skies or a twilight trip to Stubb Mill raptor roost, your Hickling adventure starts at the reserve’s visitor centre. A perfect place to pause for a hot drink and a tasty treat, the centre is also home to a fantastic shop packed to the rafters with nature-inspired gifts. All profits from the Hickling Broad and Marshes visitor centre go towards helping to protect this wonderful wild space.

Hickling is home to some fantastic events and workshops, including many fun family events – from dyke dipping to nature-inspired crafts. Check out upcoming events by visiting Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s website! Children also visit Hickling for free throughout the year, making it the perfect exciting and educational day out.

One of the best ways to experience Hickling is on a guided wildlife boat trip. Daily boat trips run from Easter until the end of October, with special winter wildlife tours running on selected days throughout the colder months. Both are available to book by calling 01692 598276.

Hickling Broad and Marshes has a disabled car parking provision. There is a rough surface leading to the visitor centre where there is a disabled toilet, hearing loop, and a wheelchair available. On the reserve, there are a number of accessible trails (both compacted hoggin and boardwalk) which give easy access to two hides as part of a circular route. Please note there is a no-dogs policy on the reserve.