Whitlingham Country Park​ has a rich and varied history. Part of the Crown Point Estate owned by the famous Colman's Mustard family, the site features the ruin of a Trowse Newton Hall, once a large manor house, as well as historic chalk workings and evidence of Palaeolithic and Neolithic flint-knapping.

​The park has also been a place for celebration, recreation and enjoyment for the citizens of Norwich, who delighted in this tranquil countryside close to the city, much as we do today.

 

In 1988 a planning agreement was made between Norfolk County Council and the Crown Point Estate (the landowners) for the extraction of gravel from the site, and it was decided to develop the site into the wonderful place of pace and recreation we know now. 

​Following comprehensive restoration and landscaping by the quarry operator, Lafarge, the land and water area was transferred to Whitlingham Charitable Trust under a long-term lease so the Trust could be responsible for the maintenance and management of the area as a Country Park. It has grown steadily since then.
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Developments

Over the years, The Trust has developed the Country Park for the enjoyment of the visiting public and to allow nature to thrive. 

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• 1992 - Trowse Wood and Trowse Meadow were leased to the Trust as part of The Country Park

• 1994 - Whitlingham Wood was transferred to the Trust

• 1996 - Whitlingham Little Broad became part of the park 

• 2004 - Whitlingham Great Broad was opened to the public

• 2005 - 24 hour public moorings were created on the River Yare

• 2006 - The 18th century Flint Barn was converted into a cafe and meeting place and opened to the public

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Partnerships
Whitlingham Adventure on the edge of Whitlingham Great Broad began operating in 2005; it is owned and managed by Norfolk County Council on land leased from the Trust. By a management agreement, they are also responsible for managing the water space of the two Broads in the Country Park. This outdoor education complex delivers a comprehensive range of sport and adventurous activities, especially for young people.

Land has been leased to Whitlingham Boathouses Foundation for the construction of a new, purpose built facility for rowing and canoeing close to the river Yare. 

Whitlingham Charitable Trust continues to manage the Country Park. while Norfolk County Council operate Whitlingham Adventure centre on the site. The Country Park is complete, but there are always lots of exciting improvements planned.

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We encourage you to join a guided walk with our volunteers to discover more about the site's rich history.

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*Below: workers at the gravel pits, and a wherry boat on the Yare (Image and header image courtesy of Norfolk County Library and Information Service)