A date on the Norfolk Broads
Key facts
| Best for | A relaxed daytime date with plenty of room to talk |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Hoveton and Wroxham station is on the Bittern Line from Norwich. Horsey and Hickling are easiest by car. |
| Budget | Medium for a day boat. Low for walks, where parking is the main cost. |
| If it rains | Hickling Broad visitor centre is open all year, with hot drinks and indoor wildlife displays. |
The Broads are slow by nature, which is what you want on a first date. Being on the water or walking a marsh path means you sit or walk side by side. Winter is quieter, but some things close, so check before you go.
Take a day boat from Wroxham
Broads Tours runs day boats from Wroxham bridge, including electric launches. No licence or experience is needed, and the team gives you a lesson before you go. Check which boats are running in winter before you plan the day.
Source: Visit the Broads: Broads Tours Day Boats, checked 8 November 2026
Horsey Windpump and the winter seals
Park at Horsey Windpump, a National Trust site, and take the 3 mile walk across the marshes and dunes to the beach. From November to January grey seals have their pups here and the beach is closed, so watch from the roped viewing areas at Horsey Gap. Winter opening at the windpump is shorter, so check before you go.
Source: National Trust: Horsey Windpump, checked 8 November 2026
Hickling Broad with Norfolk Wildlife Trust
Norfolk Wildlife Trust's Hickling Broad visitor centre is open all year, from 10am to 4pm between November and February. It serves hot drinks and sandwiches, and runs guided winter boat trips on the broad on set dates. It is a calm place to walk and talk, though dogs are not allowed on the reserve.
Source: Norfolk Wildlife Trust: Hickling Broad visitor centre, checked 8 November 2026
Questions
Do I need experience to hire a day boat on the Broads?
No. Day boat firms such as Broads Tours at Wroxham give you a lesson before you set off, and you don't need a licence.
Can we see the Horsey seals on a date?
Yes, from the viewing areas on the dunes at Horsey Gap. From November to January, keep off the beach, stay at least 100 metres from the seals and keep dogs on leads.
Are dogs allowed at Hickling Broad?
Only assistance dogs are allowed on the reserve and in the visitor centre. At Horsey Windpump, dogs are welcome on leads outside but not inside the windpump.