Cockshoot Broad

Cockshoot Broad is a small, shallow lake in Norfolk, eastern England, in the Broadland district north-east of Norwich. It covers about 5 hectares (12 acres) and is a nature reserve run by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. It sits in the Bure valley, inside The Broads National Park.

What is Cockshoot Broad?

The Broads are a web of rivers and shallow lakes fringed by fens, grazing marsh and wet woodland. Cockshoot is one of the smaller pieces of that mosaic. It is not a place for swimming or watersports. It suits quiet wildlife watching, with reedbeds, carr and open water providing habitat for waterbirds and wetland plants.

Why is it protected?

Several layers of designation cover the broad, which shows how much it matters for nature:

• Bure Broads and Marshes Site of Special Scientific Interest,
• Broadland Ramsar site and Special Protection Area,
• The Broads Special Area of Conservation,
• Bure Marshes National Nature Reserve,
• Nature Conservation Review site, Grade I, the top rating in Britain's review of important habitats.

What can you see nearby?

The Woodbastwick and Ranworth area is classic Broads scenery: the River Bure, dykes, drainage mills and wide wetlands. Other Norfolk Wildlife Trust reserves lie close by, and the Bure valley is popular with birdwatchers and plant enthusiasts. Treat Cockshoot Broad as one stop on a longer day exploring neighbouring reserves rather than a standalone destination.

How do you get there?

The broad lies on the east side of Norwich, near the village of Woodbastwick. The simplest route is by car from Norwich towards Wroxham and Woodbastwick. Check the Norfolk Wildlife Trust website for current access rules, trails and parking before you go, since entry to parts of the reserve is managed.

When should you visit?

Spring and early summer bring nesting birds and lush vegetation, while autumn and winter draw waterfowl. Bring waterproof footwear, binoculars and warm layers, as the open wetlands are often windy.

Frequently asked questions

Who manages Cockshoot Broad?

The Norfolk Wildlife Trust, the county's nature conservation charity, manages the reserve.

How big is the broad?

The reserve covers roughly 5 hectares, or 12 acres.

Is it part of The Broads National Park?

Yes. It lies within The Broads and forms part of the Broadland Ramsar site and Special Protection Area.

Where can I check access rules?

On the Norfolk Wildlife Trust website and in Broads Authority materials, which publish up-to-date information on trails and reserve access.