CRUISING TRAILS
Barton Broad B
oating through the Barton Broads’ National Nature Reserve will make this trail
particularly appealing to wildlife fans. Several trail extensions via the River Ant (using an alternative means of propulsion) allow access to this peaceful environment.
About the area
Barton Broad was dug out in the Middle Ages for peat extraction, and was purchased by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust in 1945. Previously polluted and full of algae, the Broad underwent a major environmental project, restoring its very clear water and making it a real haven for wildlife. It’s a great place for spotting otters, kingfishers and much more. The Norfolk Punt, which can be found racing on Barton Broad, was
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rya.org.uk SPRING 2024
derived from flat-bottomed gun punts which roamed the Broads in the mid to late 19th century. In order to get to their hunting grounds more efficiently, the punters developed their punts to carry a basic mast and sail. Today’s punts are 22ft long with 22m of sail and no maximum spinnaker size or minimum weight, making for exciting racing dinghies. Next to the River Ant you will find
Toad Hole Cottage Museum (open in the summer only). The thatched cottage has been restored to show the life of a marshman, a person who worked in and around the marshes.
Sail here among quiet, unspoilt nature and you’ll be following in the footsteps of a historic naval commander
Admiral Lord Nelson was
born nearby at Burnham Thorpe. He joined the Navy, aged 12, having had sailing lessons on Barton Broad. Nelson was baptised at local All Saints Church, which has many artifacts linked to him including an altar, lectern and rood screen made from timbers of HMS Victory, along with flags from HMS Nelson. The church also has the unique right to fly the white ensign from its tower.
Download one of our many trails and take to the water with a spirit of adventure
www.rya.org.uk/ knowledge/dinghy-trails
“Following a major restoration project, Barton Broad is a real haven for wildlife ˦˨˖˛ ˔˦ ˧˧˘˥˦ ˔˗ ˞˜˚Ѓ˦˛˘˥˦ϣ
Photos: Alamy
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