Over the last few years we have built seven new cruisers for our hire fleet, with one currently being finished off and a ninth in waiting. From the winter of 2013, Norfolk Broads Direct embarked on a scheme to plant a tree for every new cruiser built as a commitment to sustainability and our local environment.

Two hazels with lots of leaves_Small

Two of our Newly planted trees at How Hill 

In addition to three trees at Fairhaven Garden in South Walsham and two at Salhouse Broad, December saw a new tree planting location in partnership with the Broads Authority at How Hill. If you take a walk through the sublime How Hill Wood which leads down to the Secret Garden, you will see some newly planted hazel saplings. In fact, there are seven Norfolk Broads Direct trees to be found, representing Fair Commissioner 1 and 2, Fair Entrepreneur 1 and 2, and then three more. Some of our regular customers, Mr Collins and James, who have been staying with us in apartment 6 for many years sponsored a tree, taking advantage of our pledge to plant two trees for each one a customer sponsors. You too can plant trees through Norfolk Broads Direct, have a look at our Green Policy.

Barbara andSue_Small

Barbara and Sue a Broads Authority Conservation Officer planting the trees

Barara_tree for Mr Collins_Small

Barbara showing off Mr Collins and James’s tree 

If you continue your walk through the How Hill Woods, you may stumble across the Secret Garden itself which is filled with delights in its own little microhabitat. The walk is free having parked in the How Hill car park or moored at the Broads Authority’s 24 hour free moorings. Donations are appreciated if you fancy visiting the Secret Garden, in order to keep it open.

All trees planted by Norfolk Broads Direct are accessible to view if you moor up and take a walk to one of these beautiful locations; you’ll find details of where to go in the on board Broads Information Manuals, found on each holiday cruiser.