スウェイトの湖・トップ5

RSPB Rockland Marshes is a nature reserve with wonderful views over Rockland Broad and the River Yare. The reedbeds and open grazing marshes afford year-round displays of wildlife. Keep a look out for bird species including barn owl, great crested grebe, Cetti's warbler, kingfisher, mute swan, tufted duck, pochard, and goldeneye.

Great spot for watching the wildfowl when the water skiers aren't using the lakes

The lake here is private and used by the local waterski club. However, from the roadside, you can admire the flooded gravel pits and get a close-up view of the quarry conveyor belt. This conveyor runs under Bath Hills Road and Hall Road to the sand and gravel workings to the south. Thanks to its proximity to the road, you'll get an unusual opportunity to see this bit of logistical genius. Not to be mistaken for the bottom of a toboggan run.

Before Flixton quarry was put into use, an archeological survey discovered numerous evidence of Neolithic activity in the immediate area, including pits, ditches and ceramic artefacts. A mammoth tusk was also found here during excavations. Today, a large area of the pits is a thriving habitat for birds and wildlife. You’ll find an information board just above the quarry and keep an eye out for the birds that call this open water area home.

When walking from Chedgrave along the River Chet to Hardley Flood, the walkway at this point has collapsed and is impassable. Unfortunately, there are no signs further along the path on either side to warn you of the obstruction. Clearly the upkeep of this section of footpath has been left for some time, which is a shame as the loop back around to Chedgrave around the reserve is beautiful.

There's a very well placed bench just up from the visible hide which takes in the hole marsh. Birding for free

Great place on the footpath to view the RSPB reserve