Loddon

Explore along the river Chet to discover a hidden gem of the southern Broads – Loddon.   Whether you want to shop, enjoy mouth watering cafes and restaurants or simply soak up the sights, including the magnificent Holy Trinity church, Loddon will leave you spoiled for choice.  A visit to Hardley Flood bird reserve is highly recommended.

The best way to visit Loddon by boat is to moor in its attractive staithe, which has a lovely 18^th century water mill.  This houses a popular comedy and music venue – Loddon Mill Arts (01508 521800, loddonmillarts.co.uk)

From the staithe you can follow Loddon’s long shopping street into the centre of town which, amongst many other historic buildings, boasts the jewel in Loddon’s crown – the Holy Trinity Church.

Dating back to 1490 this large church has an ancient poor box; a medieval baptismal font set high on three steps and a painted rood screen depicting William of Norwich, a boy martyr who is reputed to have been crucified in the 12th century.

Loddon is also a great place to shop and some of these include a Cooperative Food supermarket (with a cash point), several convenience stores, two butchers, a Boots pharmacy, charity shop, DIY and garden store as well as The Emporium, which sells locally made gifts, jewellery, cards and more.  Other useful amenities include a Library, Post Office, hairdressers, an opticians, doctors and dental surgery.

If all that shopping works up an appetite there are some fabulous cafes as well as some great pubs and restaurants.  For food on the go there are two fish and chip shops, a Chinese takeaway, and a kebab and pizza place.

For nature lovers follow the Wherryman’s Way long distance footpath via Chedgrave and the north bank of the Chet to Hardley Flood bird reserve. This Site of Special Scientific Interest was formed when agricultural land was flooded in the 1940s and its shallow lagoons and reed bed support lots of rare wildlife including nationally important populations of Shoveller, Pochard and Gadwall.

Moorings

Loddon Staithe – River Chet
Near the centre of town with a toilet block and public shower in the car park.

Pacific Cruisers
Free overnight Broads Hire Boat Federation mooring subject to availability. 01508 520321.

Chedgrave Common
Rural moorings on the north bank of the Chet close to Hardley Flood.  A riverside footpath links the moorings to Hardley Flood and Chedgrave/Loddon.

Pyes Mill – River Chet
A lovely grassed area on the outskirts of Loddon, which is perfect for a picnic.

Eating out

Rosy Lee’s Tea Room

This award winning traditional tea room is something of a local institution!  Located opposite Loddon Staithe. 01508 520204.

Spoon cake
Charming cakery, cafe and craft shop, built in a converted dairy. Closed Sundays. 01508 520 688.

The Swan
Enjoy fine dining at this independent freehouse, which has been awarded AA Rosette for culinary excellence.  Located in the centre of Loddon. 01508 528039.

The White Horse Chedgrave
Located close to Loddon Staithe this family friendly pub serves freshly prepared pub food.  Has been featured in the Good Beer Guide for its real ales. 01508 520250.

The Raj
Indian restaurant and takeaway in the centre of Loddon. 01508 522041/ 01508 522042.