Golden autumn walks in the Broads National Park

Autumn in the Broads National Park is enchanting. After the bright colours of spring and summer, this magical and unique landscape takes on golden, earthy tones. In the woodland, the sun glints through the deep orange leaves, mist hangs above beautiful river valleys and tranquillity is guaranteed on the waterside trails, boardwalks and farm tracks.

Wildlife abounds here – the national park’s wetland habitat is home to myriad species, including over a quarter of the UK’s rarest plants and animals. The wet woodland, reedbeds and lakes provide a haven for birdlife and there’s always the chance of spotting the exotic-looking swallowtail butterfly in early autumn.

The Broad’s cultural heritage is almost as rich as its natural splendour. The medieval peat industry shaped its waterways, whilst today boaters enjoy the many channels, rivers and broads and cyclists and hikers make full use of their adjacent trails. The landscape is dotted by picture-postcard villages, often boasting traditional country pubs, restaurants and cafes. Pretty churches dominate the flat surroundings with their spires and round towers. Meanwhile, old mill buildings, some derelict, others gloriously restored, stand proud. All have a tale to tell.

In this Collection, we present five of the best short autumn walks in the national park. Discover the beguiling ruin of St Saviour’s Church on the loop around Surlingham Church Marsh. Witness the spectacle of thousands of grey seals on Horsey Dunes. Ascend St Helen’s Church’s 100-foot (30 m) tower for a glorious panorama during a hike around Ranworth. Experience the natural splendour of Hickling Broad, the largest in the national park. Revel in the Bure Valley’s serenity on a riverside ramble – there’s all this and more to enjoy.

The walks range in length from 2 to 7 miles (3 to 11.5 km) and are wonderfully flat throughout, making them suitable for all kinds of hikers, young or old. Take plenty of warm layers and waterproofs, just in case, while the terrain calls for quality hiking footwear. The autumn sun can catch people out, so make sure you’re equipped with sun protection too.

Some of the routes are accessible by public transport, while others require a car. There’s no shortage of places to stay in the Broads, with everything from campsites to luxurious hotels on land to boat-based accommodation on the region’s many waterways.

We wish you many happy autumn days enjoying the marvellous and unique landscapes of the Broads.