Narborough: Mills, the River Nar and Nature

The River Nar flows through Narborough and on to the River Great Ouse. The destination includes historic buildings, a disused railway line with calcareous grassland, a long-distance walking trail and several fishing lakes. If you’re looking for a hotel in Narborough, these different themes can help you choose the focus of your stay.

Bone Mill and the Nar Valley Way

Narborough Bone Mill is the only bone mill site in Norfolk where extensive structural remains have been preserved. These include a 4.9-metre-diameter waterwheel, the foundations of the main mill building, underground sluices and two pairs of millstones. You can view the mill from the public footpath on the opposite bank; this path is part of the Nar Valley Way. Check local path conditions before your visit.

The Nar Valley Way is a 34-mile long-distance walking trail from the historic port of King's Lynn to the Museum of Rural Life in Gressenhall. It follows public rights of way, paths and minor roads. The footpath connecting to the long-distance trail at Bone Mill also makes the mill interesting to travellers keen to explore walking routes as well as local history.

Church, Hall and other local history

All Saints has a history spanning several building phases: the church is largely a 15th-century rebuilding of an older church and was extensively restored in the 19th century. Parts of its masonry are of Norman origin. Alongside its historic building, All Saints offers a peaceful walk around the pond; you may be able to spot deer there. As site regulations may change, check the latest guidance before your visit.

Narborough Hall is a country house dating from the late 16th century, extended and renovated in the 18th century. The house stands in 18th-century parkland by the River Nar. Narborough Mill also has its own place in history: it was built around 1780. Together, the three sites offer different ways to explore the village’s architectural history.

Nature along the Narborough Railway Line

The disused Narborough Railway Line is a railway embankment with calcareous grassland of international importance and is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). A single footpath runs along the line. Thirty butterfly species have been recorded at the Narborough Railway Line; records may change. It is also one of the few places in Norfolk where the Dingy Skipper occurs. Its presence is seasonal and may vary. Check path conditions and seasonal access before visiting.

Different experiences at the fishing lakes

Narborough Fisheries comprises five fishing lakes fed by water from the chalk stream River Nar. Meadow Lake is the Fisheries’ main trout lake and is fly-fishing only. Tickets are available both for taking your catch home and for catch and release. Millers Lake offers a different experience: the carp lake is known for particularly large fish, with more than 45 weighing up to 40 pounds. Ticket, operating, stock and facility details may change. Check the latest conditions before visiting.

Museum and planning your visit

Narborough Museum is a community-run attraction showcasing the village’s agricultural heritage. If you’re planning a visit, check the latest visiting arrangements in advance. This will help you tailor your time in Narborough to your interests, whether local history, nature trails or the different activities on offer.

Discover more destinations: East Harling, Taverham, Potter Heigham, Yelverton, Feltwell, North Wootton, Bircham Newton, Terrington Saint Clement

For the main travel overview: Norfolk.