We're inviting you to enjoy a free day out in nature at our Ranworth Broad nature reserve on Saturday 27 May.
The free open day comes as we celebrate the successful completion of a major new project to revamp the facilities at our wildlife haven in the Norfolk Broads, found 20 minutes from Norwich.
As part of our ‘Discovering Ranworth Broad’ project, we've been improving visitor facilities and access to the site, adding new information and signage as well as offering new activities – all aimed at making NWT Ranworth Broad an even better place to explore Norfolk’s iconic wildlife.
Nick Morritt, NWT Visitor Centre and Sales Manager, says of the new initiative: “Ranworth Broad is one of the very best places to enjoy Norfolk’s unique wildlife. We are delighted to be able to make the reserve even more accessible and welcoming than ever and are looking forward to welcoming everyone to enjoy this special place and its amazing wildlife on Saturday.
“You might spot a kingfisher from our new wildlife hide, and if you’re very lucky, perhaps even an otter. Our new nature trail will keep youngsters occupied for hours and there’ll be free dyke dipping sessions to explore the broad’s underwater beasties, and boat trails for those that would prefer to stay on the surface of the water!
“Along with a new family discovery area created within our floating visitor centre, our new facilities and activities will make Ranworth Broad perfect for a regular date with nature this summer and beyond.”
Full access to the nature reserve and all activities will be available at no cost during the open day on 27 May.
The Discovering Ranworth project has been made possible thanks to generous funding from a variety of our supporters, including Essex & Suffolk Water, Norwich Freemen’s Charity and The Ranworth Trust.
Project funders and pupils of nearby Fairhaven Primary School visited the site last week to enjoy the new facilities and activities.
A teacher from Fairhaven Primary School said of their visit: “What a fantastic day we had at Ranworth Broad. The children were so engaged and excited to try out the activities. They have been learning about animals in the local environment and their habits, so this was a perfect day to enrich their knowledge. When they arrived back at school, they couldn't stop talking about everything they had done and seen - especially the two otters!”
Thanks to its varied habitats, Ranworth Broad is home to a rich array of wildlife which can be seen from the 750m of boardwalk that snakes through the wet woodland and reedbeds. At the end of the boardwalk you will find our unique floating visitor centre nestled in the reeds, looking out across the open water of the Broad.
Ranworth Broad is a special place for Norfolk’s iconic wildlife, providing the perfect home for rare species including bittern, swallowtail butterflies and marsh harriers.
For more information about Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Discovering Ranworth open day, visit: norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/events.