At the start of a New Year, many of us are booking our holidays and looking forward to a getaway. If you’re hoping to take your four-legged friend with you on holiday this year, the Norfolk Broads could be just what you’re looking for, with its network of meandering waterways, miles of picturesque walking routes and a host of pet-friendly attractions.
Richardson’s Boating Holidays, based out of Stalham Marina, has been providing unique and memorable Norfolk Broads holidays for 80 years now, and is proud to be a holiday provider that welcomes all sorts of family members – including furry ones!
Richardson’s offers a range of pet-friendly boats, and no experience is required to head off on your own boating adventure, as all guests are given a full demonstration on how to drive their boat and instructions for the facilities on board.
There is a fixed rate of just £35 for dogs on holidays up to seven nights with Richardson’s, with a maximum of two pets per boat. So you can also save precious pennies which would otherwise be spent on a kennel.
All you need to bring for your pet is their everyday essentials such as food, bowls, bedding, a lead and doggy bags, plus a life jacket (Richardson’s has a selection available should you not have your own). Richardson’s advises preventing your dog from drinking from rivers and swimming for safety reasons.
There are plenty of pet-friendly routes to explore on the Norfolk Broads and Richardson’s has a range of recommendations on its website, such as the three-day route from Stalham down to Acle, with several stop-offs on the way. Explore more here.
Alongside regular stops along your chosen route, there are all sorts of great places to take your pet on a Norfolk Broads holiday. You could take in the fresh air and spectacular sights on a nature walk at places like North Burlingham Woodland Walks or Fairhaven Woodland and Water Gardens, where dogs on leads are welcomed for just 40p entry!
Well-behaved dogs on leads are also welcome in certain areas at Wroxham Barns, where you can indulge in some retail therapy, enjoy tasty food and drink and explore the seasonal attractions. And Bure Valley Railway’s 18-mile round trip from Aylsham to Wroxham is also totally dog-friendly with tickets costing just £4 per dog.
For more ideas and suggestions from Richardson’s click here.
Looking for somewhere to stop for some local fare on your Broads adventure? Dog-friendly eateries can be found up and down the waterways and further inland.
The Acle Bridge Inn is high on Richardson’s list of dog-friendly recommendations, serving up traditional food and light bites. The Kings Head Hotel is a great place to stop and relax with your pet in Hoveton and in the southern Broads there’s The Ship in Reedham and Bear and Bells in the heart of Beccles.
Don’t forget the Ice Float, which has been a mainstay on the Norfolk Broads for many years and cruises the waterways selling frosty treats, including doggy ice cream! Discover more here.
Book your 2024 boating holiday on the Norfolk Broads with Richardson’s now and you’ll get its guaranteed best price as well as a low £50 deposit to pay. You’ll also earn a 10% loyalty bonus every time you book direct with Richardson’s. Find out more at the Richardson's website.
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