The River Waveney forms the border between Suffolk and Norfolk for much of its length. Mainly a river which runs through the Norfolk Broads, it measures 59 miles long.
It’s a popular spot for paddlers all year round, with so much wildlife to offer. It rises near Redgrave in Suffolk and empties into the North Sea at Great Yarmouth.
Along its route it is scattered with mill buildings dating back to the early 11th Century. They make a great view as you paddle along.
This mainly rural river is a great place to paddle and like much of the Norfolk Broads where it resides, is a fantastic place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Wildlife on the River Waveney
The most easterly place in Britain, Lowestoft is a great place on the river to spot birds such as red kites, shrikes, Cetti’s Warblers, and seabirds that make their home inland.
There is a chance if you follow the River Waveney to Lowestoft beach you might even catch a glimpse of a seal or two poking heads out the water.
West of Lowestoft on the River Waveney is Oulton Broad. Here you will find the Carlton Marshes nature reserve.
This 151 hectares wetland contains marsh harriers, teals, kestrels and hobbies. You can find grass snakes, fen raft spiders, otters, and even Chinese water deer on land.
Look out for marsh plant life also. You can find Bladderwort, bog pimpernel, ragged robin and marsh marigold in the reserve. Contact Suffolk Wildlife Trust for more details about the reserve.