Malthouse Broad

Malthouse Broad is a small, shallow lake in Broadland, Norfolk, beside the village of Ranworth in the Broads National Park. It measures roughly 640 m by 250 m and has a public staithe on its bank. For most visitors it is the starting point for the neighbouring Ranworth Broad nature reserve.

What is Malthouse Broad, and why that name?

The name comes from a converted malthouse standing next to the staithe. The lake is one of the Broads, the flooded medieval peat workings of the River Bure valley. It was once linked to Ranworth Broad, but encroaching vegetation had cut the two apart by the end of the 19th century. Today a long, straight channel, Ranworth Dam (also called Ranworth Dyke), joins both to the Bure.

What can you see nearby?

• Ranworth Broad reserve – 136 hectares managed by Norfolk Wildlife Trust. No boats are allowed on the reserve's own water, so boat traffic stops at Malthouse Broad.
• The floating visitor centre – a thatched building afloat on the water, with hot drinks, a small wildlife shop and a mezzanine for watching wildfowl.
• Birds – wintering ducks arrive in the cold months, while great crested grebes and common terns nest in front of the centre in summer. Ospreys are seen in the area, and a pair has settled on the reserve.
• St Helen's church tower – climb it for a view across the broad and the surrounding marshes.
• The Maltsters – a pub by Ranworth Staithe overlooking the water.

How do you get to Malthouse Broad?

Drive to Ranworth village and walk to the staithe. From there a woodland path and boardwalk lead to the wildlife centre. A ferry used to run across, and the traditional reedlighter "Helen of Ranworth", once used to carry cut reed, now takes visitors from Malthouse Broad over to Ranworth Broad. Sections of the boardwalk are replaced from time to time, so check the Norfolk Wildlife Trust website before you set off.

By boat, leave the Bure along Ranworth Dyke and pass the church tower. The Trust's centre lies on your right, and private moorings at Ranworth Island on your left. Canoeists can moor outside the centre.

When should you visit?

The reserve is open all year and free to enter. Summer is the season for boating and nesting terns; winter suits those who want to watch wintering ducks. Pick a clear day for the church tower, when the whole Broads landscape lies open below.

Frequently asked questions

Can you boat on Malthouse Broad?

Yes. Boats reach it along Ranworth Dyke from the River Bure. Neighbouring Ranworth Broad is closed to boats.

Does the reserve charge admission?

No. Ranworth Broad is free and open all year. You pay only for drinks and gifts at the visitor centre, and its profits go to the Trust's conservation work.

How do you reach the floating centre from the staithe?

Along a woodland path and boardwalk. It is a short walk from the village.

Where can you eat nearby?

The Maltsters pub stands by Ranworth Staithe, and the visitor centre serves hot drinks.