Hundreds of schoolchildren discover Broads by train

Hundreds of schoolchildren have enjoyed trips to the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads by train this year to highlight rail as the easiest and most environmentally friendly way to visit the protected landscape.

A large group of schoolchildren, accompanied by adults in high-visibility vests, walk along a train station platform. The group appears to be part of an organized school trip, with the platform and tracks stretching into the distance under a clear sky.

Greater Anglia, working with the Bittern and Wherry Lines Community Rail Partnerships and the Broads Authority, provided free travel for the youngsters to support the Broads Authority’s aims to show people how to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Broads using public transport.

238 young people, from primary and secondary schools and colleges across Norfolk and Suffolk have enjoyed trips by train to explore wild nature reserves, open marshes, and riverside paths, with the opportunity to see some of the UK’s most iconic wildlife – soaring marsh harriers, otters playing in the water, kingfishers diving from riverside branches, dragonflies, damselflies, and even the incredibly rare swallowtail butterfly.

The project - ‘Active Travel in the Broads’ - is part of the National Park Capability Fund, supported by Active Travel England.

Chris Ford, Youth Engagement Officer at the Broads Authority commented:

"With the support of Greater Anglia and the Bittern and Wherry Lines CRPs, we have been able to take students from a diverse range of backgrounds out to experience the wonders of the Broads.

"Travelling by train has simplified the process for us and has highlighted just how easy it is to get out and do some great walks in the Broads by public transport.

“We hope the scheme will inspire young people to continue to explore the Broads and create their own adventures in the future.

“We are very lucky that the railways provide fast, easy to use, and direct access into the Broads, connecting our cities, towns and villages to some of the most important protected landscapes in the UK.

Several primary school children, wearing backpacks, look at printed materials while standing at a bus or train stop. The children appear engaged and curious, suggesting they are on a school trip or outing.

“The railways are an important part of the heritage of the Broads and continue to be a key partner in ensuring that our precious landscapes remain accessible for both our local communities and the millions of visitors we welcome into the area every year.”

Martin Halliday, Community Rail Development Officer, Community Rail Norfolk, said:

“Community Rail Norfolk through its Bittern Line and Wherry Lines Community Rail Partnerships has been pleased to work with Greater Anglia to facilitate students participating in the Broads Authority’s Active Travel project to enjoy sustainable journeys by rail throughout the Broads National Park.”

Alan Neville, Greater Anglia’s Customer and Community Engagement Manager, said:

“We have been pleased to support this project to show people how easy it is to explore the wonderful and iconic Broads National Park by train. Leaving the car at home is also the most environmentally friendly way to visit this fragile landscape and helps to reduce pollution and congestion in the towns and villages inside the national park.”

Monday 14 July 2025

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