Surrounded by unspoilt countryside with the River Bure at its heart, the village of Coltishall is a real gem of the Broads

Great British Life: ColtishallColtishall (Image: Archant)

With its pretty common leading down to the river's edge, framed by fabulous properties one side and an endless expanse of stunning Broad's marshland the other - Coltishall is a village in demand.

A short drive from Norwich, Wroxham and North Walsham, it is perfectly located for those seeking the quiet life with easy access to essential amenities.Surrounded by unspoilt, rural countryside in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, the village provides excellent access to the waterways and is a great spot for boat owners, walkers and wildlife lovers who can explore the River Bure and further afield.

Its blend of properties ensures that it offers something for all budgets and size requirements. Large Victorian terraces mix with stunning new build properties boasting views of the broads' landscape, there are bungalows tucked in quiet roads and large family homes. There are also some unusual finds dotted around the river - such as the iconic thatched boat house and summer house nestled on its own little island on Coltishall's common, which recently went on the market for £300,000.

Great British Life: ColtishallColtishall (Image: Archant)

For many years, Coltishall was famous for its Royal Air Force base on the edge of the village and the site is rich in military history. Originally built as a bomber base in 1939, it played a key role in numerous conflicts and remained active until 2006.

Now it has been transformed into a major residential area and business enterprise hub, with the formed military accommodation and buildings turned into affordable housing, all surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Coltishall, and its neighbouring village Horstead, are divided by the picturesque bridge. There is an excellent array of shops including the award winning Farm to Fork & Fish, a butchers, fishmongers and deli all in one, as well as pubs and cafes.

Great British Life: Enjoying the sunshine on the river at Coltishall (photo: Nick Butcher)Enjoying the sunshine on the river at Coltishall (photo: Nick Butcher) (Image: Archant © 2017)

The Rising Sun and King's Head pubs both sit on the pretty staithe, with the Red Lion nearby. and the ever popular Recruiting Sergeant over the bridge. Head to the Piece of Cake Tea Room for coffee and cake, which is located in the River Rooms, providing office space and room hire for local businesses and organisations in the community.

But of course, the real joy of living in Coltishall, is its setting. Spend your weekends enjoying picnics on the common, explore the river by boat, head to Horstead Mill and paddle in the shallow pool or use it as a start off point to launch your canoe.

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Great British Life: St John The Baptist Church, Coltishall (photo: Antony Kelly)St John The Baptist Church, Coltishall (photo: Antony Kelly) (Image: © ARCHANT NORFOLK 2011)

The pretty riverside village of Coltishall, commonly referred to as 'The Gateway to the Norfolk Broads', is one of the most popular locations for buyers looking to move or stay within the Broads National Park.

For over two centuries Coltishall was a thriving commercial centre for the malting industry and an important stopping point on the Aylsham to Great Yarmouth route along the River Bure, which is reflected throughout the village with some magnificent buildings. In its day Coltishall had its own ship building yard where many of the river's wherries were built.

During the late 19th century the village also had four blacksmiths, alongside shoemakers, thatchers, basket makers, wheelwrights, malt shovel makers and harness-makers. Nine public houses, a cottage hospital, four churches and even a volunteer fire brigade served the bustling community where a cattle market was held once a week beside the then railway station.

Settings such as the iconic riverside common with its fashionable eateries, often play host to those wishing to relax and unwind by the water's edge and to watch the wildlife and passing boats as they pass.

Less than 30 minutes from Norwich city centre or the renowned north Norfolk coastline, Coltishall is an idyllic place to escape to the country.

Stobart & Hurrell are also very proud fans of Broadland's fastest growing female football club - The Bure Valley Wildcats.

If you are thinking of making a move, or know someone who is, Stobart & Hurrell would love to hear from you.

stobarthurrell.co.uk. enquiries@stobarthurrell.co.uk. 01603 782 782