Norfolk is often described as the birdwatching capital of Britain. With rare visiting birds and a wealth of nature reserves, Norfolk is the perfect location for birdwatching all year round.
Being so close to Hickling Broads and Horsey Beach, our farmland hosts lots of wildlife. We are happy to point you in the direction of where you are most likely to spot cranes and marsh harriers; some of our guests have spotted a kingfisher on the marshes. If you are an early riser, it’s great to get out on the farm for a walk before breakfast to see what wildlife is around.
Hickling Broads and Marshes, the largest Broad in Norfolk, has many common cranes, along with bittern, marsh harrier bearded tit and Cetti’s warbler.
In winter, large numbers of marsh harriers roost in the reedbed northeast of Stubb Mill; merlin and hen harriers are also regular. The barn owl is almost guaranteed, and you may see kingfisher if you are lucky.
All year round, Hickling Broads is a fantastic place to visit for spectacular sights of unique and common birds.
Bird watching through the seasons.
Spring
Hobby, bittern, marsh harrier, pochard, water rail, Cetti’s warbler, crane.
Summer
Hobby, bittern, marsh harrier, pochard, water rail, Cetti’s warbler, bearded tit, crane.
Autumn
Cranes, shoveler, teal, goldeneye, bittern, marsh harrier, whooper swan, water rail, Cetti’s warbler.
Winter
Cranes, shoveler, teal, goldeneye, bittern, marsh harrier, pochard, water rail, bearded tit.
You can also head to the Winterton Dunes Nature reserve, a bird-watchers delight haven for wildlife with tern and seal colonies in residence, along with the rare Natterjack toad.
Places to visit
Hickling Broad
Winterton Dunes
Horsey Beach
And don’t forget, if you’re looking for a base for your birdwatching holiday in Norfolk, take a look at our bed & breakfast rooms.
