Acle lies on the River Bure in the Broads National Park. Acle Bridge is the only bridge across the river between Great Yarmouth and Wroxham. The waterside scenery, walking routes and historic sites offer different ways to shape your stay: explore the village on foot, set aside time by the river and discover Acle’s history across several periods.

On the River Bure

A sailing regatta takes place every year west of Acle Bridge. Sailing boats from across the Broads take part. If you want to see the regatta, check the event dates before travelling. Boats can be hired at the bridge, about a mile from the centre; it also offers an excellent view of the River Bure. Check whether boat hire is available before planning your visit.

Walks and nature

“Wherry Lines Walks: Acle” is a 3.5-mile circular walk that starts at Acle railway station. As path conditions can change, it is advisable to check them before setting out. There are also pleasant riverside walks from Acle to Upton. These are two different options for a walk: a circular route starting at the railway station, and walks that follow the river towards Upton.

The ditches of Damgate Wood also shape the natural landscape: they are home to water voles and the plant “water soldier”. When planning your visit, you can combine a walk with a look at the local wildlife and plant life, without associating these nature features with a particular route.

Local history and architecture

In Roman times, Acle was a port at the head of the great estuary of Gariensis. The landscape of the parish has also changed: much of it lies on low-lying land that once bordered a large estuary. This later silted up and became marshland in the early Middle Ages. In 1253, Acle was granted the right to hold a market; this date refers to the village’s medieval history, not to a current market date.

The Church of St Edmund is listed as a Grade I building. Its fabric dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries. A war memorial from 1921 commemorating the First World War offers another glimpse into Acle’s past; it was later extended with additions for the Second World War.

Evidence of the Second World War has also survived. In the centre of Acle, a camouflaged bunker is attached to the eastern gable of The Manor House. There are four bunkers from this period around Acle, including three of Type 22. Acle’s surviving defences are of national importance. Three concrete platforms also remain on the south bank of the River Bure at Acle Bridge.

Getting there and practical planning

Acle is easily reached by bus or train from Norwich and Great Yarmouth. The railway station is on the Wherry Line between the two cities. Check timetables and connections before travelling. You can then combine your journey with a walk from the station or plan your stay around the riverside landscape and historic sites.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Blofield, West Somerton, Lyng, Overstrand, Hempstead, Langham, Hindolveston, North Tuddenham.

For the main travel overview: Norfolk.