The new funding will allow us to take the next step in realising our long-term vision for Hickling Broad and Marshes. 

Our plans focus on creating new spaces for wildlife and offering new ways for people to connect with the Broads and its evocative landscape. We aim to help protect and celebrate Hickling's natural heritage whilst supporting a sustainable future for our communities.

Our vision received a boost in 2023 when we bought a new area of land at Hickling staithe – including the Pleasure Boat pub and adjacent buildings and a large car park, together with associated moorings.    

In another step forward in 2025, we acquired 45 hectares of wet grazing marsh that bordered the existing nature reserve. This land is now named 'Whittle's Marsh' in recognition of the generous legacy and donation left by the Whittle family that made the purchase of this land possible. 

After sharing our vision for our nature reserve and nearby land with the local community in 2025, we have now received a grant of £453,115 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to enable us to design and deliver a first phase of work. 

During phase one, the work to support Hickling Broad’s habitats and wildlife includes: 

• Restoring 45 hectares of newly acquired wet grazing marsh on 'Whittle's Marsh' to benefit breeding waders including lapwing, snipe and redshank.
• Reconnecting 63 hectares of drained land within Hickling nature reserve reedbeds to Hickling Broad - re-establishing a larger, more resilient natural floodplain.
• Raising water levels across 45 hectares of marshes to create a shifting mosaic of tall herb fen and open water habitats to benefit rare birds including bittern and bearded tits as well as Norfolk’s iconic swallowtail butterfly.
• Restoring existing wetland scrapes, providing improved habitat for waterbirds and waders – particularly those on migration - and creating opportunities for close encounters with wildlife. 

As part of our vision, we are also committed to creating new ways for people to experience the unique Broads landscape and wildlife. 

Rachel Savage, our Director of Development and Partnerships, said: ‘Thanks to National Lottery Players, we are creating a future in which Hickling’s habitats are protected, wildlife is thriving, and people are learning, exploring and enjoying the many benefits of being in nature.’ 

‘We will focus on the urgent need to improve the resilience of the nature reserve’s nationally important habitats in the face of climate change. This work is vital in supporting the special wildlife the Broads are famous for, including breeding crane, spoonbill, marsh harrier, bittern, lapwing, and the iconic swallowtail butterfly, long into the future. 

‘We also have an amazing opportunity to develop new wild experiences for a wide diversity of people, and new ways for them to connect with the fascinating stories behind the largest of the Norfolk Broads.’ 

Proposed plans for new visitor facilities include improved paths, viewpoints, and signage at Hickling nature reserve in addition to a new welcome cabin and Changing Places toilet at Hickling staithe.  

Across the wider area, we are designing a new accessible circular walk, as well as planning to enhance existing paths. We are also exploring new ways for people to enjoy the Broad by water, including new accessible boat trips and ferry services. 

Liz Bates, Director, England, Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: ‘It’s great to announce this vital funding for Hickling Broad and Marshes during Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s centenary year. The National Lottery Heritage Fund is committed to supporting heritage projects that safeguard our diverse landscapes and habitats, whilst also creating new opportunities for communities to engage with the natural heritage around them.’ 

The new funding will allow us to put detailed plans in place over the next 18 months. This will enable us to apply for further funds to make the first phase of our vision a reality in future years. There will be lots of opportunities for residents and visitors to share their thoughts as the plans develop. 

Click to learn more about our vision