Reedham

Reedham is a village in several parts, laid out along the Northern bank of the River Yare. Either end of the village provides a river crossing of one sort or another - to the west is the only vehicle chain ferry on the Norfolk Broads and to the east is the swing bridge taking the railway over the river. In between, you will find a pretty quay lined with moored boats, cottages and a couple of riverside pubs. This quay was once the hub of the local boatbuilding industry with several wherries built here. These days, Reedham makes a pleasant day out, especially if you combine your trip with a visit to Pettitts Animal Adventure Park.

View a detailed tourist information map of Norfolk

We start our tour of Reedham at the vehicle ferry, which crosses the River Yare and is the only crossing point between Norwich and Great Yarmouth (saving a journey of more than 30 miles). The current ferry was built in 1984 at Oulton Broad by the late Fred Newson. The ferry can carry a maximum of only 3 cars at a time. There has been a crossing at Reedham since the early 17th century, a time when horse drawn vehicles were the main users of the ferry!

Adjacent to the ferry is a campsite and the Reedham Ferry Inn. There is also moorings for boats outside the pub, making a great stop for a pub lunch.

A little way from the vehicle ferry is the main village of Reedham. For the visitor, the best part is Reedham Quay, which runs parallel to the River Yare for around a quarter of a mile. During the 19th century, the banks of the River Yare were dotted with boatyards and here at Reedham Quay, the Hall family's yard built a number of wherries, including Wonder, reputed to be the largest and Fawn the fastest. A statue on the quay, commemorates this important time in Norfolk Broads history. Today, the quay is lined with pretty cottages, a shop, tea room and the Lord Nelson pub.

At the end of Reedham Quay, you will find the Reedham Swing Bridge, taking the railway over the River Yare. There is also another fine riverside pub, The Ship, which offers good views of the bridge and river.

Moving up into the residential part of the village (and it really is an uphill climb), you will find a grocery shop and a fish & chip shop. There is also a railway station on the Wherryline between Norwich and Lowestoft.

A little way along from the residential part of the village is the parish church of St John the Baptist. The church dates from the 15th century and contains a wall built from Roman material. Adjacent to the church is Pettitts Animal Adventure Park, a popular attraction for children, with a fascinating combination of animals, rides and shows. Finally, make sure you don't miss the Humpty Dumpty Brewery adjacent to Pettitts - which is a typical Norfolk micro-brewery producing around 30 barrels a week. The shop allows you to purchase some of their beers, plus local ciders, wines and a range of locally produced chutneys, james and honeys.

Reedham summary of what to SEE and DO

Tap the graphic above and a map will be displayed in a new tab - please be patient while it downloads! Tap menu button and 'Hints & Tips' for more information.