Easy Walk from The Boatyard to The Dunes Cafe at Acle Bridge
Easy walk from The Boatyard to The Dunes Cafe at Acle Bridge. People often ask us where they can walk to from our boatyard, especially if they can be rewarded with coffee and cake at the end! We are so lucky here at Eastwood Whelpton to have many walks directly from our doorstep.
Moments after leaving the yard you can find yourself lost in the wilderness of the Norfolk Broads National Park, but never far from a resting point for a spot of refreshment, before returning to your yacht and moving on to your next destination.
The Dunes Café at Acle Bridge is an easy 40-minute amble along the bank of the River Bure. This walk is perfect for dog walkers, bird watchers and families that enjoy wildlife spotting and nature trails.
Directions
To begin, leave the boatyard by walking on the right-hand side of the Dyke and continue to follow the River Bure as it twists and turns its way towards the village of Acle. 10 minutes in, keep the Northern Rivers Sailing Club on your left, stroll a little further and you will spot Clippesby Drainage Mill on the opposite bank.
As the Acle Bridge comes into view, cross the car park on your right-hand side, towards the boat sheds. As you cross the bridge itself, take care to stick to the path on the left-hand side, as this is the only point on the walk at which you will encounter traffic. The Dunes Café can be found on the other side of the bridge.
Wildlife and Scenery
During the late Spring and early Summer, you will soon stumble across butterflies, ducklings and even an otter or two. Take care not to disturb the swans that are often nesting in the riverbanks at this time of year. Oh, and look out for the cows in the field alongside you, with the round-towered church of St Mary’s, Fishley, in the distance.
The Cafe
It’s a lovely little cafe, with inside and outside seating and a sheltered area for dogs. Sit by the river and observe life on the water, maybe even a race or two in the busier summer months. Then, stock up on supplies in the small café shop, before you make the return journey back to your yacht.