Enjoy the Norfolk Broads at your own pace from the comfort of a luxury cruiser
The major boating centre of Potter Heigham on the River Thurne is famous for having the lowest bridge on the Broads and is a bargain hunter’s dream thanks to the famous Lathams discount superstore. There are plenty of options for a meal and refreshments.
Potter Heigham is a wonderful centre for walking and has a striking 12thcentury church in its residential area.
Potter Heigham is perhaps defined by its famous low bridge, which dates back to 1385, and acts as a barrier to the majority of boating traffic reaching further upstream to the Upper Thurne, including the magnificent Hickling Broad and Horsey Mere (see Upper Thurne).
Cruisers can only pass under the bridge at low water and even then with the appropriate clearance and help of a bridge pilot. Even if your boat doesn’t have the clearance to pass under the bridge simply watching smaller boats pass through can be quite a spectacle. On the first Saturday in June crowds gather here to watch a medley of yachts and dinghies “shoot the bridge” during the annual Three Rivers Race long distance sailing event!
In sharp contrast, Potter Heigham is equally as famous for bargain shopping at the legendary Lathams discount superstore. It is a tardis-like Aladdin’s Cave packed with everything from fashion, homeware, toys and food and drink to a big garden centre, sweet shop and bakery. Lathams also has a renowned fishing store, located opposite the main building. Elsewhere in Potter Heigham you will find restaurants, ice cream parlours, cafes, fish and chip and gift shops.
The Weavers Way long distance footpath passes through the village and by following it upstream from the bridge you can enjoy a long but stunning walk along the river Thurne before passing close to the magnificent Heigham Sound and Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Hickling Broad National Nature Reserve (See Upper Thurne). You can also access the Ludham and Potter Heigham Marshes National Nature Reserve (see Ludham).
For history, take the 1.5 mile walk from the boating centre to the Church of St Nicholas for its 12th century tower, hammerbeam roof and 15thcentury brick font.
Eating out
BridgeStones of Potter
Restaurant, tea room and ice cream parlour next to Potter Heigham Bridge. 01692 671923.
Falgate Inn
Traditional inn serving pub food and real ales. Located on Ludham Road half a mile from Potter Heigham Bridge.01692 670003.
Flour and Bean
A local chain bakery and cafe next to Lathams. 01692 670275.
Harry’s Fish Bar
Fish and chip takeway and restaurant near Potter Heigham Bridge. 01692 670415.
Moorings
Repps Bank – Potter Heigham
River bank just downstream of Potter Heigham Bridge.
Herbet Woods Boatyard – Potter Heigham
Free overnight Broads Hire Boat Federation mooring subject to availability. 01692 670711.
