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.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
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Beautiful spot on the river, with lots of people fishing and enjoying the grassland, with nearby pubs.
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A scenic and peaceful footpath tracing the Bure Valley narrow railway line.
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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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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