Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve
Serene nature reserve on the Norfolk Broads, famed for swallowtail butterflies, diverse birdlife, and tranquil waterside trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Butterflies & birds are active
Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve
Best Time
Butterflies & birds are active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Serene nature reserve on the Norfolk Broads, famed for swallowtail butterflies, diverse birdlife, and tranquil waterside trails.
"Amazing place. Friendly and helpful staff. Beautiful walks and amazing wildlife."
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof walking boots are recommended for exploring the reserve.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Essential for spotting distant birds and wildlife. Enhance your viewing experience and get closer to nature.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swallowtail Butterflies
Various meadows and marshlands
Witness the majestic swallowtail butterfly, a rare and beautiful sight in the UK. Look for them fluttering in sunny spots.
Birdwatching Hides
Throughout the reserve
Observe diverse birdlife, including herons, reed warblers, and marsh harriers, from strategically placed hides.
Adder Sightings
Sunny, sheltered spots
Keep an eye out for the UK's only venomous snake, the adder, basking in the sun during warmer periods.
Waterside Trails
Circumferential paths
Enjoy scenic walks along the water's edge, offering tranquil views and opportunities to spot aquatic wildlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Wildlife Spotting
Navigating the Broads
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof walking boots are recommended for exploring the reserve.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Essential for spotting distant birds and wildlife. Enhance your viewing experience and get closer to nature.
🦋 Look for Swallowtails
These magnificent butterflies are a highlight. Visit during warmer months and keep an eye on sunny, sheltered areas.
🐍 Spot Adders Safely
On sunny days, look for adders basking. Maintain a safe distance and never disturb them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails can be muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof walking boots are recommended for exploring the reserve.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Essential for spotting distant birds and wildlife. Enhance your viewing experience and get closer to nature.
🦋 Look for Swallowtails
These magnificent butterflies are a highlight. Visit during warmer months and keep an eye on sunny, sheltered areas.
🐍 Spot Adders Safely
On sunny days, look for adders basking. Maintain a safe distance and never disturb them.
🚶♀️ Explore Upton Fen
Consider parking at Upton Fen for free access and a great starting point for walks along the river Bure.
🛍️ Visit the Shop
The shop is highly praised for its selection of books and wildlife-related items. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hickling Broad for its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, with many highlighting the exceptional birdwatching opportunities and the chance to see rare species like swallowtail butterflies. The friendly and knowledgeable staff and volunteers also receive frequent commendations, contributing to a positive overall experience. Some visitors note that wildlife sightings can be dependent on the day and season, and that paths can become muddy after rain.
"What a fantastic places Hickling is, amazing staff and maybe one of the best shops I've ever seen for any Wildlife Trust place I've visited. Could of gone home with loads of books.
Volunteer Bruce was very nice and showed us what he had gotten in his Moth Traps the night before as well. Fab shirt Bruce!!"
Blue Butterfly
"It was such an amazing day out at Hickling.
First of all, the staff were very welcoming and told me all I needed to know about spotting wildlife and where to go.
Then, I spotted a crane, hobbies, marsh harriers, and other birds. I even saw a swallowtail butterfly.
It is a great place to visit for nature in Norfolk."
Alex Buck
"Amazing place. Friendly and helpful staff. Beautiful walks and well kept. Amazing wildlife"
emma kilvert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hickling Broad is accessible by car, with parking available at the Norfolk Wildlife Trust visitor centre. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient. Consider parking at Upton Fen for free access to trails and the river.
Yes, there is parking available at the Norfolk Wildlife Trust visitor centre. Alternatively, Upton Fen offers free parking and access to walking routes.
Public transport to Hickling Broad can be challenging. Bus services may be infrequent, so it's advisable to check local timetables in advance or consider driving.
You can explore the reserve's own trails or venture further along the river Bure from Upton Fen. These routes offer diverse scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.
While some paths may be suitable for cycling, the primary focus is on walking and nature observation. Check local signage for designated cycling routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the reserve is typically managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. While some areas might be free to access, a donation or membership may be encouraged to support conservation efforts. Check the NWT website for current admission policies. [^Review]
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and specific facilities. It's best to check the official Norfolk Wildlife Trust website for the most up-to-date information on access and visitor centre hours. [^Review]
The Norfolk Wildlife Trust sometimes offers guided walks or events. Keep an eye on their website or visitor centre for any scheduled tours that can enhance your wildlife spotting experience. [^Review]
Parking at the main visitor centre may have a fee, which helps fund the reserve's upkeep. Parking at Upton Fen is often free.
Yes, a Norfolk Wildlife Trust membership typically grants free access to their reserves, including Hickling Broad, and often comes with additional benefits. [^Review]
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Hickling Broad is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including swallowtail butterflies, various bird species like herons, marsh harriers, and reed warblers, and even adders. 
Yes, there are well-maintained waterside trails offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Absolutely! The reserve features several hides strategically placed for optimal birdwatching, allowing you to observe avian life without disturbance.
Yes, it's a great destination for families. Children can enjoy the nature trails, learn about local wildlife, and experience the outdoors in a safe environment. [^Review]
Facilities typically include a visitor centre with a shop, restrooms, and information points. The shop is particularly well-regarded. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
The bird hides offer excellent opportunities for capturing avian subjects. The scenic trails and waterscapes are also perfect for landscape photography.
Birdwatching photography is very popular, with visitors often capturing images of herons, warblers, and birds of prey. Butterfly and snake photography are also common during the right seasons.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a beautiful golden hour effect and often coinciding with peak wildlife activity.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial purposes is allowed. However, it's always wise to check with the Norfolk Wildlife Trust if you plan on extensive commercial or professional shoots.
The Norfolk Wildlife Trust may occasionally host photography workshops or events. Check their official website for any upcoming opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack picnic lunches and snacks, as dining options within the reserve might be limited. The visitor centre often has educational materials or exhibits that can further engage young minds. Remember to dress children in layers and ensure they have appropriate footwear, as paths can be uneven or muddy.
📸 Wildlife Photographers
+1 The reserve is also a prime location for butterfly photography, especially during the spring and summer months when the swallowtails are active. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light, creating a magical atmosphere for your shots.
Consider bringing a telephoto lens for capturing distant birds and a macro lens for detailed shots of insects and flora. Always be patient and respectful of the wildlife, maintaining a safe distance to avoid disturbing them. 🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Birdwatchers
Don't miss the chance to visit the bird hides, which offer excellent vantage points for spotting and identifying different species. The reserve's unique habitat attracts a wide range of birds throughout the year, making it a rewarding destination for dedicated birdwatchers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Wonders of Hickling Broad
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of avian life. Herons are a common sight, often seen standing majestically by the water's edge.
+1 The reserve is also a breeding ground for species like common reed warblers and various marsh harriers, offering excellent opportunities for bird photography and observation from the dedicated hides. During warmer months, keep a keen eye out for adders, the UK's only venomous snake, which can often be found basking in sunny, sheltered spots. Beyond these highlights, the reserve supports a rich ecosystem of insects, amphibians, and other small mammals, contributing to its status as a vital conservation area. The Norfolk Wildlife Trust actively manages the habitat to ensure the continued survival of these species, making every visit a contribution to their protection.
Exploring the Broads by Water and Foot
For those who prefer to stay on land, an extensive network of waterside trails crisscrosses the reserve and surrounding areas. These paths are generally well-maintained and provide excellent opportunities for walking and wildlife spotting. A popular approach, as suggested by local advice, is to park at Upton Fen, which is free and offers access to both the nature reserve and the river Bure. From here, you can embark on walks that can lead you to charming villages or back to your starting point, often with the option of a pub stop at The White Horse in Upton.
When planning your walks, remember that the terrain can be marshy, especially after rainfall. Waterproof walking boots are highly recommended to ensure comfort and safety.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit