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Scottow

Attractions and Places To See around Scottow - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Scottow include a blend of historical landmarks and natural features in Norfolk, England. The village offers points of interest centered around its past and proximity to the Norfolk Broads. The area features significant historical sites and natural landscapes like the River Bure. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, from ancient mills to scenic river paths.

Best attractions and places to see around Scottow

  • The most popular attractions is Horstead Mill, a historical site where only the lower section of the mill building remains. This site is thought to have hosted a mill since at least Saxon times and was once one of the country's most photographed mills.
  • Another must-see spot is Turf Fen Drainage Mill, an attractive 19th-century windmill. This mill was built to drain marshland for livestock grazing and has been restored by the Norfolk Windmills Trust.
  • Visitors also love River Bure at Coltishall, one of the Norfolk Broads' principal rivers. This section marks the head of the navigable river, offering opportunities for walks and boat viewing.
  • Scottow is known for its historical sites, natural river landscapes, and walking trails. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient mills to scenic river paths.
  • The attractions around Scottow are appreciated by the komoot community, with 45 upvotes and 18 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Horstead Mill

Highlight • Historical Site

Horstead watermill was burnt down in 1963 and all that remains is the lower section of the mill building. It was one of the biggest and most photographed mills in the country.

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Turf Fen Drainage Mill

Highlight • Structure

Only reachable by boat across the River Ant, Turf Fen Drainage Mill is an attractive 19th-century windmill. It was built to drain the marsh behind it so that livestock could graze on the land. It has been restored by the Norfolk Windmills Trust, after falling out of use in 1920.

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A lovely down by the river pub, good size beer garden, plenty of options on drinks and food, places to sit and relax before heading to your next stop.

Useful place to start a Tour of the Broads from

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Bure Valley Path

Highlight • Trail

The Bure Valley Path is a 9-mile (14.5 km) cycling and walking trail between Aylsham and Wroxham. It follows the delightful Bure Valley and the railway of the same name, a narrow gauge heritage line that boasts both diesel and steam locomotives. As well as the terminations at Aylsham and Wroxham, there are stations at Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall, which enables you to mix your walk with a ride on the train.

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River Bure at Coltishall

Highlight • Viewpoint

One of the Norfolk Broads' three principal rivers, an amble along the Bure is usually a delight. Coltishall marks the head of the navigable section these days, so you can expect to see boats enjoying the water. Two major tributaries, the Ant and the Thurne join the Bure, before it empties into the sea at Gorleston.

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Tips from the Community

Jake May
August 9, 2025, River Bure at Coltishall

Beautiful spot on the river, with lots of people fishing and enjoying the grassland, with nearby pubs.

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Jake May
August 9, 2025, Bure Valley Path

A scenic and peaceful footpath tracing the Bure Valley narrow railway line.

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JakobusPilger
November 14, 2024, Horstead Mill

Using the power of moving water to drive a mill wheel is an ancient invention of the human spirit of discovery, the origins of which can be traced back to times long past. Thanks to such a construction, a watercourse - natural or artificial - could simply replace human or animal muscle power with the power of the natural elements, for example to grind grain into corn or to press oil from fruit. There are essentially two different ways of driving watermills: * Either the flowing water simply hits the blades of the water wheel from below to set it in motion; or * the water is guided - usually through a so-called "mill channel" - above the wheel and falls onto the blades; this type of construction is more efficient due to natural gravity.

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Really nice and easy path that follows the entire Bure Valley Railway line between Aylsham and Wroxham. You can take the train one way and walk the other and there are some great points to turn off and explore especially around the Oxnead area where you can follow the river and rejoin the path later on.

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A main Norfolk River with footpaths along much of it meaning great opportunity for walks by the water that are nivable most of the year. This particular section in Coltishall has two pubs and a large grass area for relaxing in the warmer months.

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One of the Norfolk Broads' three principal rivers, an amble along the Bure is usually a delight. Coltishall marks the head of the navigable section these days, so you can expect to see boats enjoying the water. Two major tributaries, the Ant and the Thurne join the Bure, before it empties into the sea at Gorleston.

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The Rising Sun is a lovely riverside pub in Coltishall, which does excellent food, including wood fired Neapolitan pizzas. It also offers bed and breakfast accommodation, offering a pleasant basecamp from which to explore the wider Broads.

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The Bure Valley Path is a 9-mile (14.5 km) cycling and walking trail between Aylsham and Wroxham. It follows the delightful Bure Valley and the railway of the same name, a narrow gauge heritage line that boasts both diesel and steam locomotives. As well as the terminations at Aylsham and Wroxham, there are stations at Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall, which enables you to mix your walk with a ride on the train.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical landmarks can I explore near Scottow?

Scottow is rich in history. You can visit the site of Horstead Mill, where only the lower section of the mill building remains, but it's thought a mill has stood there since Saxon times. Another significant historical site is Scottow Hall, a late 18th-century house with unique architectural features, and the 15th-century Scottow Parish Church (All Saints) with its distinctive interior.

Are there any unique natural features or viewpoints to see around Scottow?

Yes, the area boasts several natural highlights. The River Bure at Coltishall is one of the Norfolk Broads' principal rivers, offering scenic views and opportunities to watch boats. You can also spot the attractive Turf Fen Drainage Mill, a 19th-century windmill built to drain marshland, though it's primarily reachable by boat across the River Ant.

What walking and cycling trails are available near Scottow?

The Bure Valley Path is a popular 9-mile (14.5 km) trail connecting Aylsham and Wroxham, perfect for both cycling and walking. It follows the narrow-gauge heritage railway, allowing you to combine a walk with a train ride. For more hiking options, explore routes like the easy 'Coltishall and Belaugh loop' or 'River Views Near Horstead', which you can find in the Hiking around Scottow guide.

Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the Scottow area?

Absolutely. The Bure Valley Path is suitable for families, offering a chance to walk or cycle alongside a heritage railway. The River Bure at Coltishall provides a pleasant setting for riverside strolls and boat watching. Additionally, The Rising Sun Pub in Coltishall is noted as family-friendly with a good beer garden and food options.

Where can I find a nice place to eat or relax by the water?

For a delightful riverside experience, visit The Rising Sun Pub in Coltishall. It offers a lovely setting with a good-sized beer garden, plenty of drink and food options, including wood-fired pizzas, and sometimes an ice cream van in summer. It's a great spot to relax overlooking the Norfolk Broads.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Scottow, beyond walking?

Besides walking, you can enjoy mountain biking and running. There are various MTB trails, such as the 'Walsham to Hoveton loop' or 'Along the North Walsham Canal to Bacton Wood', detailed in the MTB Trails around Scottow guide. For runners, routes like the 'Scottow Pond loop' are available, which you can find in the Running Trails around Scottow guide.

What is the significance of Scottow Hall?

Scottow Hall is a notable late 18th-century rendered brick house with a slate roof. Its exterior features a Roman Doric porch, and the interior is unique with an oval hole in the ceiling surrounded by balusters and supported by wooden Roman Doric columns. The stable block also dates from the same period, featuring a 17th-century stepped gable and chequered brickwork. A local legend suggests a monastery once stood on the site. You can find more historical details on the Norfolk Heritage Explorer website.

Can I combine a train ride with a walk on the Bure Valley Path?

Yes, the Bure Valley Path runs alongside the Bure Valley Railway, a narrow-gauge heritage line. You can walk one way and take the train back, with stations available at Brampton, Buxton, and Coltishall, making it a flexible and enjoyable experience.

What is the history behind Horstead Mill?

Horstead Mill is a historical site where a mill is believed to have existed since at least Saxon times. The 18th-century mill was once one of Britain's most photographed, but it tragically burned down in 1963. Today, only the lower parts of the building remain, serving as a reminder of its past significance on the River Bure.

What is the best way to experience the River Bure near Scottow?

The River Bure at Coltishall is an excellent starting point. You can enjoy an amble along its banks, observe boats, and relax in the large grass area. The section at Coltishall marks the head of the navigable river, offering picturesque views and access to nearby pubs like The Rising Sun.

Are there any hidden gems or less-known attractions to discover?

The Turf Fen Drainage Mill could be considered a hidden gem. This attractive 19th-century windmill, restored by the Norfolk Windmills Trust, is unique because it's primarily reachable by boat across the River Ant, offering a more secluded and adventurous viewing experience.

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