How Hill Trust Environmental Education Centre
A historic Broads estate where nature, history, and hands-on learning meet along the River Ant, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Nestled in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, How Hill Trust is a historic thatched house and environmental education centre set within wetlands, woodlands, and riverfront. While the house is primarily used for school groups and courses, visitors can explore the surrounding grounds, Secret Garden, Toad Hole Cottage, and enjoy electric boat trips along the reed-fringed waterways. It’s a peaceful, family-friendly destination for nature lovers, with walking trails, wildlife hides, and seasonal events.
A brief summary to How Hill Trust Environmental Education Centre
- How Hill Rd, Great Yarmouth, Ludham, NR29 5PG, GB
- +441692678555
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check opening times and event schedules in advance, as the tearoom and some facilities are seasonal and may only be fully open during school holidays.
- Combine the electric boat trip with the wildlife walk – boat tickets often include free admission to the nature trail and hides.
- Visit Toad Hole Cottage to see a traditional marshman’s cottage and learn about life in the Broads’ working past.
- Bring binoculars and a camera; the reedbeds and bird hides are excellent for spotting dragonflies, birds, and other wildlife.
- Pack a picnic – there are plenty of grassy areas and benches, and it’s a relaxed spot for a family lunch by the water.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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By car
From Great Yarmouth, follow the A1064 north towards Stalham, then take local roads towards Ludham and How Hill Road. The journey takes about 25–35 minutes. There is on-site parking, but it can fill up on busy days, especially during school holidays.
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By public transport
From Norwich, take a train to Great Yarmouth, then a local bus towards Ludham or Stalham. From there, a taxi or pre-arranged pickup is needed, as the final stretch to How Hill is not served by regular bus routes. Total travel time is around 1.5–2 hours.
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By foot or cycle
From Ludham village, follow footpaths and quiet lanes to How Hill. The walk takes about 20–30 minutes and is suitable for families and cyclists. Paths are generally flat but can be muddy after rain.
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By boat
How Hill has a staithe on the River Ant, accessible by private boat or as part of organised Broads trips. Moorings are available, and the site is a popular stop for those exploring the Broads by water.
How Hill Trust Environmental Education Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about How Hill Trust Environmental Education Centre
A Thatched Retreat in the Broads
How Hill Trust occupies a striking thatched mansion built in 1905 by Norwich architect Edward Thomas Boardman as a country retreat on a rare high knoll in the flat Broads landscape. Overlooking the River Ant, marshes, and ancient windmills, the house stands as a distinctive landmark in this low-lying wetland region. Though originally a private home, it later became a residential education centre and is now run by the How Hill Trust, a charity dedicated to environmental learning. The house itself is not generally open to the public, but its presence and setting form the heart of a much wider experience focused on nature, history, and hands-on exploration.Exploring Nature and History
The visitor experience at How Hill centres on the surrounding estate: wetlands, woodland paths, and the Secret Garden, a beautifully planted area with water lilies and winding paths. A well-maintained wildlife walk with boardwalks and bird hides leads through reedbeds and dykes, offering close-up views of dragonflies, birds, and aquatic life. Toad Hole Cottage, a small historic building on site, gives insight into how marshmen once lived and worked in this unique environment. Interpretive signs and occasional guided elements help visitors understand the ecology of the Broads, from reed harvesting to the importance of wetland habitats.Boat Trips and Seasonal Activities
One of the highlights is the electric boat trip, often called the Electric Eel, which glides quietly through narrow channels between tall reeds. These trips provide an intimate perspective on the Broads’ wildlife and waterways, often including informative commentary. Seasonal offerings include family events, craft sessions, and nature-based activities for young children, such as mini-beast hunting and den building. The tearoom, open during school holidays and busy periods, serves refreshments and is a pleasant spot to pause after a walk or boat trip.Access and Practicalities
The site is easily accessible by car, with on-site parking and public toilets. While the house and its immediate gardens are reserved for educational groups, the wider grounds, Secret Garden, and public footpaths are freely explorable. The wildlife walk has a small admission fee for adults, though boat trip tickets often include free access. Dogs are welcome in most outdoor areas, making it a relaxed destination for families and dog owners. The estate is also used for adult courses, themed evenings, and venue hire, adding to its role as a community and educational hub in the Broads.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Nature Escape
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
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- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
