Ranworth loop – autumn in the Broads

This is a gorgeous little loop from the picturesque village of Ranworth. Discovering the Broads of Ranworth, Malthouse and South Walsham, there are plenty of picturesque views across the water to enjoy, not to mention great opportunities for bird watching. The floating Broads Wildlife Centre is a delight, while panoramic views from St Helen’s Church’s 100-foot (30 m) observation tower await.

The walk begins at Ranworth Staithe, a hugely popular spot with boaters on Malthouse Broad. You hike through leafy scenery along the pretty South Walsham Broad, before passing through the southern end of Ranworth village and onto Priory Road.

The next landmark of note is the impressive St Helen’s Church. Known as ‘the Cathedral of the Broads’, it’s a commanding presence above the flat landscape. The church is best known for its tower, which today provides an observation platform, perfect for admiring the Northern Broads. You can see the Happisburgh Lighthouse and the turbines at Scroby Sands on a clear day.

After St Helen’s, the hike ventures to the Broads Wildlife Centre via a charming boardwalk through splendid woodland and reedbeds. The centre occupies a superb spot, floating on Ranworth Broad and offering excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. Ospreys have visited the waters here in recent years.

After the Wildlife Centre, you end up back at Ranworth Staithe, where the Granary Stores cafe and Maltsters pub are good options for a post-hike refuel.