Broads Village back for 2026 and ready to show off the 'best of the Broads'

The Broads Authority is excited to welcome thousands of visitors back to the Broads Village at the Royal Norfolk Show (24 and 25 June) and showcase the best bits of this special area.

This year we'll be joined by a whole host of Broads organisations, all on hand to inform, inspire and excite visitors of all backgrounds and ages.

The Norfolk Wildlife Trust will be at the Village running educational nature activities, interactive games and teaching visitors about the special wildlife that can be found throughout the Broads and beyond. Plantlife is joining us too, highlighting the best flowers and plants for wildlife and sharing tips on how we can all be nature-friendly gardeners.

Our pond animal tent also returns, allowing children (and equally intrigued parents) to see real-life examples of some of the incredible insects, fish and plants found in our waterways. There will also be plenty of opportunities to ask questions, learn from the experts and discover what it’s like to work in conservation.

The Village wouldn't be complete without giving visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the rich culture of our area and discover the stories of its unique past.

From learning how the Broads were formed in medieval times to finding out about the lives of the valiant wherrymen and marshmen who made their living on the waterways, there is certainly plenty to explore. The Museum of the Broads will be back to share some of these fascinating stories, while the Broads Authority will be offering interactive activities where visitors can learn about traditional tools, extinct animals of the Broads and much more.

Whether visitors are looking for inspiration on getting out onto the water or searching for the best places to explore on foot or by bike, there will also be stands from the Broads Authority's Recreation Team, Norfolk Water Sports, Outspoken Cycles, Pioneer Sailing Trust, The Nancy Oldfield Trust and more, all on hand to share the best ways to experience the Broads landscape.

The RNLI will also be joining the Rangers this year with interactive activities promoting water safety, sharing top tips on keeping yourself and others safe, and ensuring everyone knows how to ‘Float to Live’ should they unexpectedly find themselves in the water.

Children, parents and group leaders can complete an activity trail to earn Broads National Park goodies, or simply relax in our deckchairs and escape the hustle and bustle of the rest of the show. The Village is also flat and accessible, with quieter areas available for those with low sensory needs to unwind and decompress.

Rob Leigh, Head of Communications, commented:

“Bringing the Broads Village together each year is a huge undertaking, but seeing families, school groups and other visitors leave so inspired by the Broads and the natural world makes every bit of effort worthwhile.

“We’re delighted to welcome a number of new partners this year, joining many of our long-standing favourites to offer an even wider range of experiences.

“As always, popular attractions such as badge-making and the pond animal tent will be returning, alongside plenty of exciting new activities for visitors to discover.

“With such a diverse programme on offer, we’re confident there will be something to excite, engage and inspire everyone who comes along. We look forward to seeing you there!”

The Broads Village will be at the Norfolk Show on both days, Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 June. You can find us next to the Countryside Ring in B1 on the official Norfolk Show map.