Broads

Broads, The, a local name given in Norfolk to the extensive shallow lagoons formed by the Bure, the Ant, the Yare, and other rivers in their sluggish course through a level country to the sea. In other counties they are called "meres." Surrounded by trees, overgrown with reeds and water-plants, and linked together by winding channels, they possess a quiet picturesque charm that has grown to be much appreciated of late years. Moreover, they abound with fish and aquatic birds. Navigation is carried on by means of "wherries," or broad-bottomed sailing boats with accommodation for the living and sleeping of several occupants. The chief of these lakes are Wroxham Broad, Bredon Broad, S. of Yarmouth, Hickling Broad (400 acres) near North Walsham, and Rockland Broad, 7 miles from Norwich. Hitherto there has been a free use of rights of way over them, but riparian proprietors are now beginning to assert their claims.