Redesigning Broads Tourism with Custom Floating Hut Retreats

The Broads are a unique and much-loved landscape, but we believe there is room to rethink how people experience them. Instead of spending a week on a noisy, oversized plastic cruiser, imagine travelling quietly in small electric craft, moving between a network of floating huts. Each offering a different place to stay, and a different perspective on the water.

Visitors could arrive in Norwich by train and begin their journey along the River Wensum, exploring the Broads at a slower, more considered pace. Floating huts could be moored individually for a sense of retreat or arranged together around custom-designed pontoons for family trips or seasonal events. Hut sizes and layouts would vary to suit different groups and types of travel.

These floating units could be relocated throughout the year to respond to seasonal changes and local demand. A supporting network of floating cafés, bars, and paddleboard rentals could promote local businesses and offer flexible infrastructure that adapts to the rhythms of the region, relocating or downsizing in the off-season as needed.

We are particularly excited by the idea of towing the huts into central Norwich during the Norfolk & Norwich Festival, creating a distinctive, temporary accommodation experience right in the heart of the city.

Currently we are engaging with local stakeholders and are eager to speak with others who share an interest in this sustainable development, tourism and the future of the Broads. If this concept resonates with you, we’d love to start a conversation.