A pretty Norfolk village, for enjoying life on the River Bure
Coltishall is said to be the birthplace of the iconic wherry and the boatyards based down Anchor Street, were building Norfolk keels and wherries to carry goods up and down the shallow rivers and The Broads waterways going up river as far as Aylsham.
Coltishall is now the highest navigable point on the River Bure, a beautiful green thread winding through Coltishall. In the upriver direction you can walk under the shade of the willows towards Buxton, starting at the bridge. There is a great pub just across the river, and a popular tearoom and shops with picnic food and fine houses around the central meadow.
On a bright day it’s hard to imagine that Black Shuck, Norfolk’s haunting and legendary black devil dog beast with red eyes, is said to favour this bridge under the cover of deep darkness. Reputed sightings are a few and far between, last one in 1950, so you can sleep easy.
The staithe at Coltishall common is the other destination for a day of lazing on the grass, enjoying an ice cream while watching people boating, canoeing and paddleboarding along the river, with a view of the meadows beyond. If you fancy getting on the river yourself, there are several companies that can organise lovely days on the water with all the kit you need. When it’s time for lunch you can choose from two great pubs sitting side by side or walk back to the thatched church of St John.
Picnic by the river at Coltishall.
There you’ll spot the bakery café or turn down a leafy lane leading to a boutique hotel, with grounds down to the river, where you can enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea.
There are lots of places to get on the water at Coltishall.
Whether you choose this hotel or an idyllic country cottage, Coltishall is in that perfect mid-point, if you’d like to explore the Broads to the east, the market towns to the west, then head north for glorious beaches and south to explore historic Norwich.
Visit Coltishall, and head for the river for heavenly days on the water.
