Reedham

Reedham is a magnet for tourists exploring the lower reaches of the River Yare.  The village has a stunning river frontage and is famous for having one of the last remaining railway swing bridges and chain ferries in the country.  You can visit Pettitts Animal Adventure Park and Humpty Dumpty brewery as well as walking along the Wherryman’s Way to a restored mill.

The centre for boating activity in Reedham is Riverside. The long waterside street has free Broads Authority Moorings at Reedham Quay and is perfect for a stroll with plenty of places to sit by the river and admire the view.  There are pubs and a little post office selling basic provisions and gifts.  A general store plus a fish and chip shop (open Thursday – Saturday) are a short walk away and the village also has a railway station.

Reedham is famous for having one of the last operating railway swing bridges in the country.  The bridge, which can be seen from Riverside, featured in Michael Portillo’s Great British Railways BBC TV programme in 2012.

The original Victorian swing bridge was commissioned in the 1840s to enable cargo carrying wherry boats to continue along the river without having to lower their sails. The current bridge dates from 1902 and is still operated from an Edwardian signal box 1,300 times in a typical year to allow today’s sailing boats to pass through.

At the opposite end of the village is Norfolk’s only operating chain ferry where there is a popular pub with a riverside beer garden.  It’s a great place to watch cars being carried across the Yare on the little ferry, the only vehicular crossing between Norwich and Great Yarmouth, saving drivers a journey of more than 30 miles.

For a great family day out head to Pettitts Animal Adventure Park which is located close to the church of St John the Baptist on the edge of the village.  Pettitts has plenty of rides for young children, exotic and domestic animals, a petting zone and cafe.01493 700094.

pettittsadventurepark.co.uk

Humpty Dumpty Real Ale brewery is next door to Pettits and you can buy its ales direct from source at the brewery shop. 01493 701818.

Reedham is also ideal for a walk as The Wherryman’s Way Long distance footpath passes through the village.  Walk downstream along the river for two miles to reach Polkey’s Mill, a restored 19^th century Grade 11 listed wind pump. Along the way you can enjoy panoramic views of wild marshes that are rich with wildlife.

Mooring

Reedham Quay
A quay attendant will help you moor (during the main tourist season) in this Broads Authority facility. Please beware of the strong tides. Free water, electric charging points and rubbish disposal are available.

Reedham Ferry
A mooring fee is payable to the ferryman or at the Ferry Inn.  Showers and toilets available.

Eating out

The Lord Nelson
Newly refurbished riverside pub opposite Reedham Quay.  Serves home cooked food and was listed in the CAMRA 2011 Good Pub Guide for its real ales. 01493 701548.

The Ship
Located on Riverside, near Reedham Swing Bridge, this family friendly pub has a children’s play area and large beer garden.  Serves freshly prepared pub food and real ales.  Live music nights and BT Sports.  01493 700287.

The Ferry Inn
Riverside pub next to Reedham chain ferry with a large beer garden.  Serves freshly prepared pub food and real ales.  01493 700429.