Pulls Ferry Norwich
A restored 15th-century flint watergate and 17th-century ferry house on Norwich's River Wensum, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, soft light
Pulls Ferry Norwich
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A restored 15th-century flint watergate and 17th-century ferry house on Norwich's River Wensum, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.
"Lovely landmark building giving off vibes of a real sense of history."
🐦 Bring Bird Food
Feed swans & ducks oats/sunflower seeds, not bread! They love it.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The riverside paths are lovely for a walk, so wear comfy shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Watergate
Riverside
A stunning 15th-century flint watergate, once crucial for river trade and city defenses.
Riverside Birdwatching
River Wensum
Abundant swans, ducks, and geese make this a haven for bird lovers. Bring appropriate food!
Scenic Riverside Walk
River Wensum path
Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the River Wensum, with views of the watergate and surrounding nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Pulls Ferry
What to Bring for a Riverside Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐦 Bring Bird Food
Feed swans & ducks oats/sunflower seeds, not bread! They love it.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The riverside paths are lovely for a walk, so wear comfy shoes.
📸 Capture the History
Pulls Ferry is a picturesque spot, perfect for photography.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond
The riverside walk extends to Cow Tower and beyond.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐦 Bring Bird Food
Feed swans & ducks oats/sunflower seeds, not bread! They love it.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The riverside paths are lovely for a walk, so wear comfy shoes.
📸 Capture the History
Pulls Ferry is a picturesque spot, perfect for photography.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond
The riverside walk extends to Cow Tower and beyond.
🦢 Swan Spotting
You might see swans on or off the river, especially in cooler weather.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pulls Ferry is widely praised as a beautiful and historic riverside spot, particularly loved for its abundant birdlife and picturesque views. While the private ownership of the gatehouse means interior access is limited, visitors appreciate its charm and the opportunity for peaceful walks and wildlife feeding. Some note the presence of duck poop, but this is generally overlooked in favor of the site's overall appeal.
"Lovely spot to visit if you enjoy feeding birds. Take some proper duck food. They love it. Plain oats and sunflower seed hearts go down a treat too. All much better for them than bread and crisps!
Swans are a common sight here, along with mallards. Egyptian geese are frequent visitors and greylags show up from time to time. If you're lucky you may spot moorhens or a grey heron."
Kisrah
"It was stunning as I saw two ducks swimming together and beautiful swans. Perfect for water and duck lovers. My first time going and beautiful if you could look past the duck poop."
Hannah Grant-Cole
"Famous local beauty spot, best viewed from other side of the river. Often portrayed on local calendars."
Trevor Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pulls Ferry is accessible via a scenic riverside walk. Many visitors arrive by foot from the city center. Public transport options like buses and trains can get you to Norwich, and then it's a pleasant walk to the ferry. +1
Parking directly at Pulls Ferry is limited. It's best to park in Norwich city center car parks and enjoy a walk along the River Wensum to reach the site.
Yes, cycling is a great way to reach Pulls Ferry, with pleasant routes along the river. Ensure your bike is secured if you plan to stop and explore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Pulls Ferry is a historic landmark and a public riverside area. There is no admission fee to view the exterior and enjoy the surrounding walk.
The exterior of Pulls Ferry and the adjacent riverside walk are publicly accessible. The gatehouse itself is in private ownership and not open for interior tours.
As an outdoor landmark, Pulls Ferry is accessible at any time. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the historic 15th-century watergate, feed the abundant birdlife (swans, ducks, geese), and enjoy a peaceful walk along the River Wensum.
Absolutely! Pulls Ferry offers beautiful views of the historic architecture and the river, making it a popular spot for photographers. 
No, the gatehouse is privately owned and not open to the public for interior visits. You can, however, appreciate its exterior beauty and historical significance.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms or cafes directly at Pulls Ferry. You'll find these amenities in the nearby Norwich city center.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no dining options directly at Pulls Ferry, Norwich city center is a short walk away and offers a wide variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
You can enjoy a picnic along the riverside paths near Pulls Ferry. Remember to take all your litter with you to keep the area clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a softer, more atmospheric look. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
The main watergate arch, the swans and ducks on the river, and the reflections in the water are all highly photogenic.
There are no specific photography restrictions for personal use. However, commercial photography may require permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no playgrounds directly at Pulls Ferry, the nearby city center of Norwich has parks and attractions. The historical aspect of the watergate can also spark curiosity in older children about Norwich's past. Remember to supervise children closely near the water and bring appropriate snacks and drinks.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
+1 The easy accessibility from the city center makes it a convenient addition to any itinerary. Combine your visit with a stroll along the River Wensum, perhaps heading towards Cow Tower for a longer walk. It's a great place to reflect, read a book, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this historic English city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Pulls Ferry
Adjacent to the watergate is a 17th-century ferry house, adding another layer to the site's historical narrative. While the gatehouse itself is privately owned and not open for tours, its imposing presence and the surrounding riverside environment evoke a strong sense of history. The area is often featured on local calendars, highlighting its status as a beloved local beauty spot.
For those interested in Norwich's rich heritage, Pulls Ferry provides a fascinating glimpse into the city's maritime and defensive past. Its picturesque setting on the River Wensum makes it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking a connection with history and nature.
+1Wildlife Encounters at Pulls Ferry
Visitors are encouraged to bring appropriate food for the birds, such as plain oats or sunflower seed hearts. It's important to avoid feeding them bread and crisps, as these are unhealthy and can cause harm.
Beyond the more common species, keen observers might also spot moorhens or even a grey heron. The presence of such diverse birdlife adds an extra layer of charm to the Pulls Ferry experience, transforming a visit to a historic site into a mini wildlife safari.
Social
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