Setting & Character
Ranworth is reached by water across Malthouse Broad, off the Bure. The staithe is staffed in season and has a lawn for picnics. Ranworth Broad itself, next door, is a nature reserve and closed to boats — you walk there along the boardwalk.
Bridges & Air Draught
There are no bridges between the Bure and Ranworth. Malthouse Broad is shallow outside the marked channel — keep to the posts.
Figures are Broads Authority clearances at average high water — read the gauge boards on the day.
Choosing a Berth
Ranworth Staithe — Broads Authority staffed staithe, 01603 756094. Charges April–October: £6 day, £12 overnight, dinghy dyke £4.
Ranworth Island — mooring fee applies; you need a dinghy to reach the village.
Malthouse Broad — popular for anchoring in summer; keep clear of the staithe approach.
Fuel & Facilities
Granary Stores with a post office, shop and tea room on the staithe, 01603 270432. Norfolk Wildlife Trust information centre. Toilets at the staithe. Ask the staithe attendant about water.
Pubs & Food
Contacts from Norfolk Broads Direct and venue pages — call ahead, hours change by season.
- The Maltsters — pub opposite the staithe with a terrace over the broad, 01603 270900.
- Granary Stores and Tea Room — tea, cakes and light bites on the staithe, 01603 270432.
- St Helen’s Church visitor centre tea room — in a converted cart shed behind the church.
Things to See
Ashore and on the water.
- St Helen’s Church (c. 1450) — climb 89 steps and two ladders to the tower for views over five broads; medieval painted rood screen.
- Norfolk Wildlife Trust Ranworth Broad — boardwalk through fen woodland to a floating visitor centre (seasonal); terns, otters and an osprey platform.
Tides
The Broads are tidal as far up as Norwich, Wroxham and Stalham. Use the Broads Authority tide table for Gorleston (Yarmouth Bar) and add the inland difference.
The Broads Authority does not list a high-water difference here; use the nearest listed point and allow for the tide on the main river.
This guide does not copy tide heights. Not for navigation.
Old Sea Dogs View
Ranworth is one stop on the Norfolk Broads hub — use the map there to plan the next leg.
Skipper's Notes
Quick notes before arrival.
- Staithe charges apply April–October.
- Ranworth Broad is closed to boats — walk the boardwalk.
- Malthouse Broad is shallow outside the channel.
Information checked against official sources
The practical information in this Guide was checked against the sources below on 30 October 2026. Operational details change — confirm with the Broads Authority, yacht station, yard or pub before arrival.
- Broads Authority — Yacht stations
- Broads Authority — Moorings
- Norfolk Broads Direct — Ranworth
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to moor at Ranworth?
Ranworth Staithe charges £6 for the day and £12 overnight from April to October, and £4 for the dinghy dyke (Broads Authority). Staithe phone: 01603 756094.
Can I take a boat onto Ranworth Broad?
No. Ranworth Broad is a Norfolk Wildlife Trust nature reserve. Moor at the staithe on Malthouse Broad and walk the boardwalk.
Can I climb Ranworth church tower?
Yes — St Helen’s tower has 89 steps and two ladders. Check opening with the church.
