Martham: Village History and Broads Landscape

Martham combines a historic village centre with trails and landscape along the River Thurne. Part of the village lies in the Broads National Park; the upper reaches of the River Thurne form one of Martham’s boundaries. Nearby is Martham Broad, a National Nature Reserve on the River Thurne in the Broads National Park. For a stay, village history, walks and nature watching offer different points of focus.

Village Centre and Church

At the centre of Martham is a large village green; Georgian houses also stand in the centre. Martham St Mary the Virgin is a medieval church. The present church building was constructed between around 1377 and 1450. The tower is 98 feet high, and the peal comprises six bells. Architectural details include a hammer-beam roof with eleven pairs of carved angels.

The rectory also tells of a different building phase: it dates, along with the garden walls to the south, from the early 16th century and was altered in the 19th century. Martham’s war memorial, erected around 1920, stands in the churchyard of St Mary the Virgin. It commemorates 41 local men who died during the conflict. Together, the church, rectory, memorial and houses in the village centre offer different ways to explore Martham’s built heritage.

Martham Broad and the Landscape

Martham Broad lies on the River Thurne and within the Broads National Park. Access on foot is restricted and is via a public footpath along the edge of the protected area. Bear this access restriction in mind when planning your visit. Swallowtail butterflies can be seen at the Broad in summer. The waters of the northern and southern Broads near Martham are among the clearest in the entire Broads system.

The nature area and river landscape offer a different focus from the village centre: here, the emphasis is on waterways, nature watching and trails. If you plan to visit Martham Broad, it is helpful to distinguish its restricted access on foot from the attractions in the village.

Walking Trails in the Village and Surrounding Area

For a circular walk starting from Repps Road, the Martham Low Road Walk is a specific option: the 2.5-mile route starts on this road in Martham. Footpath No25 is 2,516 metres long. It is a level walking trail, although its northern end has uneven, bumpy sections; surface conditions may vary seasonally. The trail offers wide views of the Norfolk sky and river.

The two trails can be distinguished by their respective details: the Martham Low Road Walk has a named circular route and starting point, while the length and condition of the northern section are useful guides for Footpath No25. There is also a walking guide in the village centre with three short routes and interactive maps. Village walks include a route around the Village Green and trails along Black Street and White Street.

Waterways and Activities

Martham has a canoe hire centre that allows visitors to explore the River Thurne. Check with the operator and confirm availability before your trip. Martham Ferry Day Boat Hire is a boat hire service at Martham Ferry Boat Yard on Riverside in Martham; confirm availability in advance as well.

Martham Pits comprise several interconnected small fishing broads east of the River Thurne. A day ticket is required for fishing and is available from both Co-Ops in Martham village. As ticket arrangements may change, confirm the details locally. The excursion options are distinct: canoe and boat hire relate to the River Thurne, while Martham Pits are described as fishing waters.

Discover more destinations: Taverham, Hevingham, Wighton, Attleborough, Syderstone, Loddon, Thetford, King's Lynn

For the main travel overview: Norfolk.