Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve
About Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve
Hickling Broad is a Open water, reedbed and grazing marsh reserve in Norfolk, managed by Norfolk Wildlife Trust. The reserve covers approximately 585 hectares and is designated as a National Nature Reserve. The reserve is nationally important for common cranes, which recolonised here in 1979 and now have a thriving population. Other key species include bittern, marsh harrier, bearded tit and Cetti's warbler. Swallowtail butterflies breed in the reedbeds. Otters are regularly seen. The broad supports diverse fish populations including pike and perch.
Wildlife & Habitat at Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve
The reserve is nationally important for common cranes, which recolonised here in 1979 and now have a thriving population. Other key species include bittern, marsh harrier, bearded tit and Cetti's warbler. Swallowtail butterflies breed in the reedbeds. Otters are regularly seen. The broad supports diverse fish populations including pike and perch.
Location & Nearest Towns
Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve is located in Norfolk, England. The nearest town is Stalham. Nearby places include Stalham, Norwich, Great Yarmouth.
Interesting Facts
- Hickling Broad is home to the UK's only breeding population of common cranes, which returned naturally in 1979 after being extinct in Britain for 400 years.
- The broad is the largest of the Norfolk Broads, covering 585 hectares.
- Swallowtail butterflies, Britain's largest native butterfly, breed only in the Norfolk Broads and can be seen here on warm summer days.
Visitor Tips for Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve
Spring to Autumn offers the best conditions for wildlife viewing.
Binoculars, walking boots or wellies, waterproofs, and a field guide. Insect repellent in summer.
Visitor centre with toilets, cafe and shop. Car park on Stubb Road. Boat trips available. Observation hides and waymarked trails. Wheelchair-accessible hides and boardwalks.
Visitor centre with toilets, cafe and shop. Car park on Stubb Road. Boat trips available. Observation hides and waymarked trails. Wheelchair-accessible hides and boardwalks.
Exploring Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve
Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve is a easy-access reserve in Norfolk. The habitat is primarily Open water, reedbed and grazing marsh, and the reserve is managed by Norfolk Wildlife Trust. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or a first-time visitor, the reserve offers a peaceful escape into some of the UK's finest protected landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve suitable for families?
Yes, the reserve has accessible trails and visitor facilities suitable for families. Flat, well-maintained paths and boardwalks. Observation hides accessible via level trails. Some grassy paths may be wet. Boat trips offer an alternative way to see the broad.
What is the best time to visit Hickling Broad NNR?
Spring to autumn offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities. April to September for swallowtail butterflies. Spring for bittern booming and marsh harrier displaying. Summer for cranes with chicks. Winter for wildfowl including bean geese and raptors.
Are dogs allowed at Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve?
Dogs are not permitted on the reserve trails or hides, except assistance dogs. This is to protect ground-nesting birds and the sensitive reedbed habitat.
Why Visit Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve?
Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve is a designated National Nature Reserve in Norfolk, England — one of the UK's finest protected wildlife sites. Browse our full directory of UK nature reserves to discover more sites to visit.
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