Norfolk Boats, Trains & Seaside with Leo & Netty

 Norfolk Boats, Trains & Seaside 

What  a beautiful day for our trip out on the water. On arrival at the boat yard, we spotted our vessel and with the roof open we set off along the broads with the sun shining on our faces with a lovely breeze. On the boat we relaxed and watched the world go by and waving to the other holiday makers on the water. We became wildlife watchers spotting several birds, cormorants, a heron and lots of ducks to name but a few. 

We did laugh when we spotted the floating ice cream boat! And of course we needed little persuasion to stop and treat ourselves to one! 

The sun was shining, and we had a wonderful morning sailing and watching the cormorants airing their wings after watching them dive for fish. We all got a go at steering the boat and agreed we would make great captains! 

It was off to Holt station and luckily for us they were running a vintage train service. Our journey took us to the old seaside town of Sheringham and we were thrilled when we heard the chug chug and smelt the steam coming from the train. As we climbed aboard, we noticed how spacious the carriages were, and the seats were super comfy. We travelled through some beautiful countryside and along the sandy coastline. Before long we had arrived in Sheringham and took a stroll down the high street stopping at many of the quaint shops along the way looking for those all-important souvenirs! A picnic lunch was enjoyed on the sea wall making the most of the sea views! A few of us were keen to head down to the pebbled beach and dip our toes in the water whilst the others were happy relaxing in the afternoon sun and watching the little blue canoes which were bobbing around. For our return journey we decided to take a diesel train back to Holt which is over 80 years old. 

It was down to the seafront before heading to the hippodrome for the oldest circus in the world. One of the most striking features of the Great Yarmouth Circus is its water show, a spectacle that has been a core part of its performances since the early days. As the floor of the stage dramatically descends, it fills with thousands of gallons of water to create an aquatic arena. This transformation allows for stunning synchronized swimming, daring dives, and mesmerizing light displays that bring the aquatic world to life. This signature element of the circus creates a sense of magic that few other venues can replicate. Today’s performance featured a mix of traditional acts, such as acrobats, clowns, and tightrope walkers, alongside contemporary elements like pyrotechnics, laser shows, and live music. 

Another ice cream treat was a welcomed afternoon pick me up! 

 Teamwork was certainly needed on the canoes and before long, with instructions from Leo we were paddling in unison and managed to get some good speed up! We paddled for a good few hours and couldn’t believe how much distance we had actually covered! It had been a great experience, and we all agreed we could give the Olympic rowers a run for their money! 

We had a little time to enjoy a walk around the Broadwalk, a wooden walkway built over the marshland. Here we got to see yet more wildlife in their natural habitat as we walked along the pathways before it opened up to a huge platform on the broads where you could see the sailing boats and cruise boats going by. It was a lovely way to spend the morning.