About the Broads
The Broads is Britain's largest nationally protected wetland - the whole area is 303 sq km. Its rivers, broads (shallow lakes), marshes and fens make it a unique area, rich in rare habitats, which support myriad plants and animals. Globally, wetlands are among the most threatened of landscapes.
The Broads is also one of Europe's most popular inland waterways. Once an essential transport network, today the waterways are used for recreation, the whole of the Broads area attracting more than two million visitors a year.
The Broads has special status - it is one of the national and international family of national parks - for its blend of wildlife, distinctive landscapes and buildings, and the opportunities for people to relax and enjoy themselves both on land and on many kilometres of lock-free navigable waterways. The area is managed by the Broads Authority.
