Indispensable information
for the first time boat hirer
and the regular Broads sailor
Norfolk Broads Towns and Villages - Beccles Map
Beccles is a market town to be found around 6 miles from the junction of the River Waveney with Oulton Dyke (which leads on to Oulton Broad for location purposes) and is actually in the county of Suffolk. Moorings are available either just before the road bridge on either side or within the Yacht Station which is nearer the town centre, though an overnight fee is payable here. A 10 to 15 minute walk will take you into the town centre with a myriad of shops, banks, restaurants and bars.
Local Attractions. If your craft is unable to pass under the old Beccles Bridge, take the Big Dog Ferry which runs up to the quiet village of Geldeston to the Locks Inn, a quaint establishment still it by candlelight. The journey takes around 45 minutes and begins near the Lido.
The Lido is a heated outdoor swimming pool adjacent to the Waveney river. It is a 10 minute walk from the Yacht Station. Besides the pool there are terraced areas for sun bathing. The pool opens at the end of May and is heated to 28c. The Splash Bar Café offers hot and cold meals, snacks, ice-cream and cakes, together with hot and cold drinks.
St Michaels Church, around 5 minutes from the Yacht Station is interesting as the bell tower was built away from the main building. This as due to it’s weight which was thought at the time could result in the building collapsing into the Waveney.
Walk the Waveney riverside beyond the old bridge which acts as a choker to river traffic so leaving the reach unspoilt and with an abundance of wildlife.
Eating and Drinking. The nearest public house to the Yacht Station is the Bear and Bells, a large establishment with a separate restaurant.
The Kings Head is a Wetherspoons outlet serving an extensive menu situated on the market square.
The Waveney House Hotel is situated on the riverside with a fine restaurant.
There are other bars, cafes and takeaways within the town centre, an easy walk from the moorings.
Other services. Beccles has it’s own market on a Friday until mid afternoon.
There is a a large Tesco in Beccles, on Caxton Road though it is a bit of a trek back with your shopping.
All major banks are represented in the town centre. There is a pharmacy at the Tesco store
The Yacht Station has water, showers, toilets and refuse disposal facilities.