The Broads Authority Headquarters in Norwich
The Broads Authority at Yare House leads conservation and navigation management for the iconic Norfolk and Suffolk Broads National Park.
Located at Yare House on Thorpe Road in Norwich, The Broads Authority is the governing body responsible for managing the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads, a unique network of rivers and lakes. This office serves as the administrative center for environmental protection, navigation, and conservation efforts across the Broads National Park, balancing tourism, wildlife preservation, and local community interests.
A brief summary to The Broads Authority
- Yare House, 62-64 Thorpe Rd, Norwich, NR1 1RY, GB
- +441603610734
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during office hours Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, for access to visitor information and expert advice.
- Explore the Broads waterways by boat or on foot to fully appreciate the natural beauty managed by the Authority.
- Check the Broads Authority website or contact Yare House for updates on conservation projects and public events.
- Combine your visit with a trip to Norwich city center to experience local history and culture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the bus from Norwich city center to Thorpe Road, with journeys typically lasting 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Services run frequently during weekdays with fares around £2-£4 GBP. Note that weekend service is reduced and may require checking schedules in advance.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Norwich city center to Yare House on Thorpe Road takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Estimated fare ranges from £8 to £15 GBP. Taxis provide direct and convenient access, suitable for travelers with luggage or limited mobility.
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Car
Driving to Yare House is straightforward from Norwich city center, with a travel time of about 10 minutes. Limited parking may be available nearby but is subject to restrictions and fees. Visitors should check parking options in advance and consider alternative transport during peak hours.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, the route from Norwich city center to Yare House is about 2.5 km and takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes on mostly flat, paved roads. The walk offers urban views and is accessible for most fitness levels.
The Broads Authority location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Broads Authority
Central Hub for Broads Management
The Broads Authority is headquartered at Yare House, 62-64 Thorpe Road, Norwich. This office functions as the administrative and operational center for the Broads National Park, a distinctive landscape of rivers, lakes, and wetlands spanning Norfolk and Suffolk. The Authority oversees navigation, conservation, and sustainable development within the Broads, ensuring the protection of its unique habitats and promoting responsible tourism.Historical and Environmental Significance of the Broads
The Broads are a network of navigable rivers and lakes formed through medieval peat excavations that later flooded, creating a rare wetland ecosystem. The area includes notable waterways like the River Yare and River Bure, which have been vital for transportation and trade since historic times. The Broads Authority was established to protect this landscape’s natural beauty, wildlife habitats, and cultural heritage while facilitating recreational boating and tourism.Architectural and Location Context
Yare House itself is a modern office building situated in Norwich, a city with rich medieval and maritime history. Norwich lies on the River Wensum and is near the River Yare, which flows through the Broads. The building’s location on Thorpe Road places it within an urban setting that connects to the wider Broads area, bridging city administration with rural and natural landscapes.Role in Conservation and Public Engagement
The Broads Authority manages environmental protection measures, including habitat restoration and water quality monitoring. It also regulates navigation to balance boating activities with wildlife conservation. The Authority engages with local communities, visitors, and stakeholders through education, events, and information services, fostering awareness of the Broads’ ecological and cultural importance.Visitor Experience and Facilities
While Yare House is primarily an administrative office, it serves as a point of contact for visitors seeking information about the Broads. The Authority provides resources on boating, walking, cycling, and wildlife watching opportunities throughout the Broads National Park. Nearby Norwich offers complementary cultural and historical attractions, enhancing the visitor experience.Strategic Importance and Governance
The Broads Authority is a unique public body with combined powers of a national park authority and a navigation authority. It includes members appointed by government and local councils, reflecting a collaborative governance model. This ensures that environmental, recreational, and economic interests are balanced in managing one of England’s most treasured natural landscapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pull's Ferry
0.4 km
A tranquil 15th-century watergate and ferry house on Norwich’s River Wensum, blending rich medieval history with scenic riverside charm.
VisitNorwich
2.2 km
Discover Norwich Cathedral’s soaring Norman spire, medieval carvings, and tranquil cloisters nestled in a vast historic sanctuary.
Faircraft Loynes
11.3 km
Discover the beauty of the Broads with Faircraft Loynes, your premier boat tour agency and rental service in Wroxham, offering unforgettable waterway experiences.
Wroxham Bridge
11.5 km
Historic 17th-century bridge and vibrant boating hub connecting Wroxham and Hoveton on the scenic Norfolk Broads.
TourNorfolk
18.1 km
Discover the essential internet marketing services at TourNorfolk, where local charm meets digital expertise in the heart of Barton Turf.
Potter Heigham bridge
20.5 km
Historic 14th-century bridge and boating hub in Norfolk Broads, blending medieval charm with scenic waterways and vibrant village life.
Pudding tower
28.3 km
Explore Pudding Tower, a medieval defensive relic in Great Yarmouth, steeped in history and local lore from the town’s fortified past.
War Memorial
28.5 km
A solemn tribute in Great Yarmouth, honouring local service personnel and civilians lost in 20th-century conflicts with quiet dignity and enduring respect.
Nelson's Monument
28.9 km
A towering Doric column in Great Yarmouth honouring Admiral Nelson with panoramic views from its historic viewing platform.
Merrivale Model Village
29.0 km
Step into a whimsical world of miniature wonders, where every corner holds a surprise and the magic of the English countryside comes to life in miniature.
The Upside Down House - Great Yarmouth
29.0 km
Step inside Great Yarmouth’s quirky Upside Down House for a brief, disorienting, and highly Instagrammable experience that flips your world upside down.
Great Yarmouth Beach
29.1 km
Experience the lively charm and sandy stretches of Great Yarmouth Beach, Norfolk’s iconic seaside playground with piers, amusements, and tranquil dunes.
Britannia Pier
29.1 km
Historic Great Yarmouth pier blending classic seaside amusements, live shows, bars, and panoramic coastal charm for all ages.
Visit The Broads
29.9 km
Your gateway to exploring the enchanting waterways, wildlife, and heritage of the Norfolk Broads National Park.
National Trust - Felbrigg Hall, Gardens & Estate
31.4 km
Explore Felbrigg Hall, Gardens & Estate: A Historical Gem in Norfolk with Lush Gardens and Stunning Architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cow Tower
0.8 km
Explore Cow Tower, Norwich’s rare medieval artillery blockhouse guarding the River Wensum with commanding views and rich history.
Castle Quarter
0.9 km
Castle Quarter Norwich: Five levels of shopping, dining, and entertainment in the city centre with cinema, bowling, and more.
Norwich Castle
0.9 km
Explore 900 years of history and art in Norwich Castle’s majestic Norman Keep and internationally renowned museum galleries.
Jarrolds
1.1 km
Historic family-owned department store in Norwich blending heritage charm with modern retail across fashion, home, and local crafts.
Looses Emporium
1.2 km
Discover a labyrinth of vintage treasures and quirky antiques in Norwich’s beloved Looses Emporium on Magdalen Street.
Chantry Place
1.3 km
Norwich’s vibrant shopping centre with over 90 stores, diverse dining, and convenient city centre parking for a seamless retail experience.
Whitlingham Country Park
1.5 km
280 acres of restored nature where gravel pits became lakes, perfect for water sports, wildlife watching, and family adventures.
The Plantation Garden
1.9 km
Norwich's volunteer-restored Victorian gem with Gothic fountains and woodland walks.
RSPB Surlingham Church Marsh
6.6 km
Discover tranquil reed beds and rich wildlife at RSPB Surlingham Church Marsh, a Norfolk wetland sanctuary along the River Yare.
Ladybelt Country Park
8.8 km
A serene 21-hectare country park near Norwich blending woodland, heathland, and heritage for peaceful walks and wildlife encounters.
Wheatfen Broad - Ted Ellis Trust
8.8 km
Discover Norfolk’s hidden fenland gem where rare wildlife thrives in tranquil marshes and woodlands managed by the Ted Ellis Trust.
Strumpshaw Fen
9.6 km
Explore Norfolk’s tranquil Broadland sanctuary with rich wildlife, peaceful trails, and scenic river views at RSPB Strumpshaw Fen.
Blofield Farm Shop
10.0 km
Authentic Norfolk flavors and farm-fresh produce in a welcoming rural setting near Norwich.
Salhouse Broad
10.2 km
Discover Salhouse Broad’s unique sandy beaches, rich wildlife, and tranquil Norfolk Broads setting for a peaceful nature escape.
Fur & Feather Inn
10.9 km
A charming rural gastropub and brewery tap offering fresh Woodforde's ales and hearty fare in the heart of Norfolk countryside.
Essential places to dine
Roger Hickman's Restaurant
1.6 km
Elegant modern British fine dining with French flair in the heart of Norwich’s historic district.
The Cellar House
4.4 km
A charming family-run pub in Norwich’s Eaton district, blending traditional British hospitality with beautifully crafted modern cuisine.
Mark Poynton at Caistor Hall
4.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine in the elegant, historic Caistor Hall near Norwich.
The Wildebeest
6.5 km
Michelin Bib Gourmand fine dining near Norwich, blending seasonal Norfolk produce with modern British culinary artistry in a relaxed, elegant setting.
Stoke Mill STORE
6.6 km
Experience Michelin-starred contemporary dining in a historic 700-year-old watermill on the scenic River Tas near Norwich.
Stoke Mill Restaurant
6.6 km
Historic riverside mill turned elegant fine dining restaurant blending British tradition with contemporary culinary artistry.
The Ferry House
6.8 km
A charming riverside pub in Surlingham offering hearty British fare, peaceful views, and warm hospitality on the Norfolk Broads.
The Kings Head
8.5 km
A charming 4-star gastropub and inn in Bawburgh blending historic character with exceptional seasonal dining and cozy accommodation.
Wherrymans
11.5 km
A friendly riverside café and bar in Wroxham offering great coffee, casual dining, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Norfolk Broads.
The Old Mill
11.6 km
Family-run British café bar with classic breakfasts and grills, set by the riverside in Hoveton near the Norfolk Broads.
Rising Sun Coltishall
11.9 km
Charming riverside pub and inn in Coltishall serving hearty British fare with warm hospitality and scenic Norfolk Broads views.
King's Head Coltishall
12.0 km
Historic Norfolk gastropub blending award-winning British cuisine, cozy B&B stays, and scenic Broads views in charming Coltishall village.
The Maltsters
13.3 km
A welcoming family-run pub and restaurant in Ranworth offering hearty local dishes and a cozy atmosphere amid the scenic Norfolk Broads.
New Inn, Horning
13.4 km
Charming riverside pub in Horning offering hearty British fare, scenic moorings, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere on the Norfolk Broads.
Bure River Cottage Restaurant
13.5 km
An intimate Norfolk Broads seafood haven serving expertly crafted fresh fish and shellfish in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cathedral Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique Norfolk crafts and Cathedral treasures at Norwich Cathedral’s charming Gift Shop in the historic Cathedral Close.
Inanna's Magical Gifts
1.0 km
Discover mystical treasures and handcrafted artistry at Inanna's Magical Gifts, Norwich’s premier metaphysical boutique.
Elm Hill Craft Shop
1.0 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and nostalgic treasures in the heart of Norwich’s historic Elm Hill at Elm Hill Craft Shop.
Norwich Lanes
1.0 km
Discover Norwich Lanes, a vibrant maze of independent shops, artisan cafes, and historic charm in the heart of Norwich city centre.
Anglia Square
1.4 km
Eclectic shopping and vibrant local character converge in Norwich’s distinctive Anglia Square urban centre.
The Bridge Gift Shop
11.6 km
Discover unique local crafts and authentic souvenirs at The Bridge Gift Shop, a charming stop in the heart of Norfolk’s Broads.
A Piece Of Cake
11.6 km
Cozy tea room and bakery in Coltishall, serving fresh cakes, hearty breakfasts, and traditional British fare in a charming riverside village setting.
Roys of Wroxham Department store
11.7 km
Discover traditional British charm and a vast array of goods at Roys of Wroxham, Norfolk’s iconic department store and festive shopping haven.
The Galley Horning
13.5 km
Discover the flavors of Norfolk at The Galley Horning, where gourmet deli delights meet charming cafe culture in a picturesque village setting.
Tidings
13.5 km
Discover Tidings, your go-to convenience store in Horning, offering essential supplies and local delights for travelers exploring the Norfolk Broads.
Ludham Bridge Stores
15.7 km
Charming general store offering fresh local produce, souvenirs, and essentials in the heart of the Norfolk Broads’ boating community.
Reedham Stores
19.0 km
A welcoming village convenience store offering local flavors and essentials in the heart of Norfolk Broads’ scenic Reedham.
Tucked Away Norfolk
20.2 km
Discover handcrafted Norfolk treasures in a charming barn setting at Tucked Away, North Walsham’s artisan gift shop.
Lathams of Potter Heigham
20.5 km
Norfolk Broads’ largest discount superstore and pet shop with extensive shopping, fishing tackle, garden centre, and artisan café.
Very Nice Things Gift Shop
20.5 km
Discover quirky gifts and seasonal treasures in the heart of Reepham’s charming market town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Wallow | Self Service Wine Bar
1.1 km
Discover Norwich’s pioneering self-service wine bar offering over 50 wines, delicious sharing platters, and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.
Coldham Hall
8.4 km
Charming riverside pub and bespoke wedding venue on the scenic Norfolk Broads, blending rustic warmth with stunning natural views.
The Ferry Inn of Horning
13.1 km
A lively traditional pub on the Norfolk Broads offering hearty fare, riverside charm, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Innkeeper's Collection Norfolk Broads, Horning
13.5 km
Charming riverside inn on the Norfolk Broads offering cozy rooms, classic pub dining, and scenic waterway views in the heart of Horning village.
The Swan Inn
13.5 km
Charming riverside pub and inn in Horning offering cozy rooms, hearty British fare, and scenic views along the Norfolk Broads.
White Horse Inn Neatishead
16.0 km
Charming historic pub with award-winning ales, seasonal menus, and a welcoming atmosphere on the Norfolk Broads.
Dog Inn Ludham
16.2 km
A welcoming, dog-friendly pub in Ludham offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a cozy campsite in the Norfolk Broads.
The Lord Nelson
19.0 km
Charming riverside pub on the Norfolk Broads offering quality ales, fresh British fare, and private moorings in a welcoming community setting.
The Harnser
21.5 km
Historic pub and cozy B&B in Stalham Green, blending traditional Norfolk charm with gourmet dining and scenic countryside comfort.
Lady Haven
27.7 km
A cozy, affordable pub in Great Yarmouth offering friendly vibes and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Tombstone Brewery & Saloon Bar
28.0 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s craft beer culture in a lively Old West saloon setting with award-winning ales and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Duke's Head Hotel
28.0 km
Historic coastal charm and friendly hospitality converge at Duke's Head Hotel, a welcoming bar and stay in Great Yarmouth’s heart.
The Mariners
28.1 km
A beloved Great Yarmouth pub famed for its rich selection of cask ales, lively atmosphere, and authentic British charm.
The Kings Arms
28.2 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Great Yarmouth serving homemade British classics with a charming beer garden and great value.
The Market Tavern Public House
28.2 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub in Great Yarmouth serving hearty British classics with generous portions and friendly service in a lively market setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Loft Nightclub
0.5 km
Norwich’s vibrant gay nightclub with over 30 years of inclusive nightlife, music, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
Popworld - Norwich
0.5 km
Norwich’s vibrant late-night hotspot for pop hits, friendly vibes, and unforgettable party nights on Prince of Wales Road.
Fluke
0.6 km
Experience Norwich’s vibrant nightlife at Fluke, where great music, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd come together for unforgettable nights.
Mojo's
0.6 km
Mojo's: Norwich's gritty, no-frills nightclub pulsing with late-night beats and authentic urban energy.
Mantra
0.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and great music at Mantra Nightclub, Norwich’s energetic weekend party destination with friendly staff and affordable drinks.
Sugar & Spice - Strip Club and Lap Dancing Norwich
0.6 km
Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
ClubKA
22.2 km
Traditional charm meets lively nightlife at The Kings Arms Hotel and ClubKA in North Walsham, offering comfort, great food, and late-night fun.
The Bermuda Club
27.1 km
A welcoming nightclub and bar in Hemsby offering lively evenings, family-friendly nights, and affordable drinks near Norfolk’s scenic coast.
Moonlight Cabaret & Karaoke
28.4 km
Experience lively karaoke nights and captivating cabaret shows in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Fallen Angels
28.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and adult entertainment at Fallen Angels, Great Yarmouth’s premier late-night club on Marine Parade.
Buddha Club
28.9 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Buddha Club, where modern beats, colorful lights, and coastal vibes create unforgettable weekend nights.
Mavvy’s
28.9 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s vibrant nightlife at Mavvy’s, where music, dancing, and lively atmosphere come alive until the early hours.
Sole Bay Bowls Club
40.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and community spirit of Sole Bay Bowls Club in Southwold, where leisure and tradition blend seamlessly.
Southwold Cricket Club
41.4 km
Discover the rich heritage of cricket at Southwold Cricket Club, where tradition meets the enchanting charm of Southwold's coast.
St Edmund's Hall
41.6 km
Discover the vibrant performing arts scene at St Edmund's Hall in Southwold, where culture and scenic beauty meet for an unforgettable experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
