Our skipper David Leonard Jones has been out on Leda exploring the Southern Rivers. Travelling from Upton, through Loddon and on to Beccles, David shares his top tips for enjoying the beauty of South Norfolk. 

Reedham

Hopping off at Reedham quay, and being welcomed by the friendly Broads Ranger, I found Reedham was the perfect place to start my adventure. There are a few free mooring spots available, but if taken, The Lord Nelson offers free moorings to those who eat at the pub and ask extra nicely!

Before hitting the water again, I popped by Cannell’s By The River for great coffee and grabbed some last-minute supplies and snacks. 

Loddon

Down the River Chet, I visited Loddon, a quaint Norfolk village. It’s perfect for stopping off and having a walk to explore The Broads a bit more. If you moor up in the town centre, there are plenty of facilities, with toilets and showers available. 

Beccles

Taking advantage of the tide times, we went through both bridges at Beccles and headed out for the day. We moored stern on at the lido for £10, which comes with free shower and toilets when the lido is open. For something a little different to usual, we decided to go up the church tower. For £2.50 and after climbing all 132 steps to the top, we looked out onto the spectacular scenes of The Broads – it was beautiful!

Geldeston

After spending the day in Beccles, we headed up to Geldeston and stayed by The Locks Inn. It’s a community-owned pub just on the River Waveney and is the perfect way to spend an evening after a busy day sailing. Although there were lots of canoeists, we had the chance to have a quick swim in the clear water and enjoy the scenery. 

Burgh Castle

We stopped at Burgh Castle on the public moorings and went to the Roman Fort. Exploring a rich piece of Norfolk heritage and looking out onto Berney Arms made for a great afternoon. We then headed to The Fishermans Inn and sat out on the deck overlooking the river with views across the marsh towards Reedham. 

Norwich

I’d recommend taking the trip along the River Wensum and through the bridges into Norwich city centre. I headed to moor at Norwich Yacht Station, where the staff there were friendly and attentive. Included in my £13 overnight mooring fee were free water and showers, as well as having knowledgable staff available 8am-8pm which were great!