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If you have been able to reach Hickling, you will have had to use the boat pilot service to get you under Potter Heigham Bridge. Most boats are now too high to get under, so you might consider hiring a day boat from Herbert Woods or the Pheonix Fleet, both situated by the bridge, as a fall back option. This chocolate box lid village can be found at the far end of Hickling Broad, which is the largest of the Norfolk Broads. When entering the Broad be sure to stay between the marker posts which will guide you to the dyke where the moorings are to be found. Free moorings are available on either side of the dyke which leads onto the Pleasureboat Inn.
Local Attractions: Hickling is a pretty village complete with a village green and many thatched cottages with climbing roses and clematis. Take a walk to the Greyhound Inn, in the centre of the village around 15 minutes away to see the best of it. The Norfolk Wildlife Trust operates fascinating boat trips from its visitor centre. These are of one or two-hour duration. Explore the quiet backwaters and 60-foot tree tower to enjoy the best view in Norfolk. The trip also takes in two bird hides where you could expect to see an abundance of birds including marsh harriers, great crested grebes, and various wildfowl. Additional occasional trips include dawn chorus and evening water trails. Full information is provided on THIS fact-sheet.
Eating and Drinking: The Pleasureboat Inn is easiest to reach from the moorings but is currently closed. However, in the summer months, a pop-up bar has been in business on the grounds. The Greyhound Inn is 15 minutes walk away in the village but is well worth the walk, offering an extensive menu in a traditional village bar style.
Other Services: The last shop in Hickling closed some time ago.
TIP. Geese tend to congregate around the mouth of the dyke at night and they can be very noisy at first light for a while before they move off. If you would be affected by the noise consider mooring further up the dyke towards the Inn.
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