The Broad itself is approximately 1.2 hectares in area, and the whole site covers nearly 25 hectares. The site is not only a haven for the wildlife of the secluded broad, but also the diverse species that make a home within the valley’s bluebell wood, alder carr wet woodland, mature tussock sedges, sunny grassland and wet scrub and dykes. 

The site is the perfect home for a wide variety of wildlife. The watery edges are ideal habitat for otters and water voles. Wetland birds such as teal and water rail could be found in the flooded alder carr and it’s not uncommon to catch the bright blue flash of one of the resident kingfishers darting across the Broad. The drier woodland is alive with sound thanks to species that could include tawny owl, woodcock and treecreepers and come spring, the nature reserve is home to a spectacular display of bluebells. 

We were offered the unique opportunity to buy the site from a private seller, Julie Pooley, on very generous terms in memory of her late husband. David Pooley bought the land in 2005 and spent decades restoring the site for wildlife. 

The purchase was made possible thanks to a wide range of local support from many generous individuals and organisations, including legacy gifts from Graham Churchyard and Peter Sinclair, and a grant awarded by the Anglian Water Flourishing Environment Fund.  

Other generous donors include Peter Crook, South Walsham Parish Council, Upton with Fishley Parish Council, the Leslie Mary Carter Charitable Trust, Martin Laing Foundation, the Paul Bassham Charitable Trust, and individuals who contributed to our Sotshole Broad Purchase and Restoration appeal. 

Julie Pooley explains: ‘We are really sad to let Sotshole Broad go, but we know Norfolk Wildlife Trust is the perfect new owner for David's much-loved slice of the Norfolk Broads, and that it will be well cared for and treasured in their hands.’ 

Continuing David Pooley’s restoration of the Broad, the wildlife charity will strive to improve water clarity for the celebrated food web of the Broads, from water fleas to otters. By reinstating grazing, we aim to recover the diversity of flora along the north edge of the nature reserve and restore small areas of fen.  

We will also improve natural water retention within the reserve’s extensive alder woods by reconnecting low lying areas to the ditch network, creating more space for water during flood events, increasing biodiversity and improving water quality entering the River Bure. 

Kyle Jennings, our Broads Area Manager, explains: ‘We are excited to have the opportunity to secure another important piece of the Bure Valley to help improve, expand and connect the landscape for nature. Sotshole Broad is an absolute gem of a site supporting an array of priority species that must be protected and nurtured. 

‘Our thanks go to the late David Pooley and his family whose energy, dedication, and inspiration now provide the opportunity for us to build on his years of effort. This will not only benefit the wildlife of the Bure Valley, but also allows us to open up this delightful little site as a nature reserve for local people and visitors to enjoy.’ 

We intend to provide access throughout the site, and areas for educational activities and events. Public footpaths taking in Ranworth, Malthouse, South Walsham and Sotshole Broads will join the site to other wildlife-rich spots in the area.