Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our Whitlingham Country Park FAQ section! Here, you'll find answers to common questions about visiting the park, including information on opening hours, facilities, activities, and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you're planning a family outing, a nature walk, or an adventurous day out, we've got you covered. If you don't see your question listed, feel free to contact us—we’re happy to help.
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PARK FACILITIES
When is Whitlingham Country Park open?
Whitlingham Country Park’s paths and trails are always open for visitor access.
Do you have an on-site café?
Yes, our Flint Barn Café is open every day, apart from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
You will find a range of hot and cold beverages, cakes, snacks and light lunches, including gluten free and vegan options.
Opening hours 9-5pm Summer season (April – October)
9-4pm Winter season
There is indoor and outdoor seating available, as well as take-away options. Please note, tables cannot be reserved. Find out more here.
When are toilet facilities open at the park?
Toilets are open during Flint Barn Café opening hours only.
Two wheelchair accessible unisex toilets can be found in the Flint Barn Café. There are also male, female and accessible facilities in the Flint Barn car park, right near the café.
Our Changing Places facility in close by to the toilet block. More information about our Changing Places facility can be found here. To register for your personal key card to access our Changing Places facility, click here.
Where can I park my vehicle?
Find us around 0.6 miles (1km) along Whitlingham Lane, Trowse, NR14 8TR.
There are 5 pay and display car parks at Whitlingham Country Park, operated by RCP Parking. Your car parking ticket is valid for any of the car parks on site for the duration of your choice. Feel free to move locations during your visit, such as to visit our barbecue site and play area at the far end of the park.
If you have a long vehicle, minibus or long motor home, please use the Old Quarry car park (first right after the Flint Barn) as there are no marked spaces there.
There is no overnight parking permitted in our car parks. Please contact our neighbours, Whitlingham Broad Campsite, to arrange any overnight stays.
Can I purchase a Parking Permit for the park?
Yes, you can purchase a parking permit from RCP directly at ZatPermit - Application Portal.
A yearly permit is just £65 when paid online (£70 if paid by cheque) which is excellent value at less than £1.40 per week! Alternatively, choose a monthly permit for £10 per month. Permits can be purchased at any time throughout the year.
I have received a parking penalty charge notice and want to appeal, who do I speak to?
Parking complaints are best dealt with directly with the operator, RCP Parking. You can find out how to appeal a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) online. Please note that Whitlingham Café staff cannot deal with PCNs.
How far is it around the Great Broad?
There is approximately 2.3 miles (3.7km) of level trail around the edge of the Great Broad. The path is suitable for walking, cycling, pushchairs, wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
The Great Broad path is our most popular route, but there is so much more to explore! Look at our park map to find trails around the woods and meadows too.
Can I hire a mobility scooter at the park?
Yes, we currently have one Tramper all-terrain mobility scooter for hire. Check availability and book your slot online.
Once you have had a short induction with a member of staff, the Tramper can be taken through the woods and meadows as well as on flat paths. It can be operated left or right-handed.
Can I have a barbecue at the park?
Barbecues are not permitted in the areas around the Little and Great Broads or the Picnic Meadows. If you want to barbecue, then the designated area lies at the far end of the park, close to the Picnic Site car park. Please use the hot ash disposal basket when you are finished. Please do not place barbecues on any wooden benches.
Can I hold an event at the park?
Whitlingham Country Park hosts public and private events throughout the year. If you are interested in holding your event at the park, please read our events guidance (link to) before submitting your application.
Is the park licenced for weddings?
Unfortunately, not at this time.
ACTIVITIES & RECREATION
Can I bring my dog to the park?
Dogs are very welcome at Whitlingham Country Park. Please take note of signs as there are areas around the Great Broad where dogs must be kept on leads to protect wildlife in our nature area. Thank you for your consideration.
Well behaved dogs are allowed to join you as you relax in Flint Barn Café, but please keep them on leads inside and on the patio. Please note the mezzanine area is a dog-free zone.
Can I swim in the Great Broad?
Unfortunately not, swimming is not permitted outside of official group activities. If you would like to try open water swimming, why not speak with
Tri Anglia who run regular training sessions in the Broad.
Can I fish on Whitlingham Broad?
Fishing on the Broad is reserved for members of the Norwich & District Pike Angling Club. For more information and membership enquiries visit www.norwichpike.com. Bankside fishing on the River Yare is available opposite the Picnic Site car park, near our barbecue site.
Can I launch my canoe on Whitlingham Broad?
Yes, a day pass can be purchased from Whitlingham Adventure. Their centre offers a full range of water-based activities, including sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, rafting and canoeing - all of which can be undertaken in a safe and fun learning environment. Training is available for beginners from the water sports centre, where you can hire a craft for the day. Whitlingham Adventure centre is managed by Norfolk County Council so is run separately to the Country Park.
Can I camp at Whitlingham Country Park?
Wild camping is not permitted, but adjacent to the park grounds is the Whitlingham Broad Campsite who offer everything from simple camping to boutique bell tents and comfy cabin hideaways.
Can I bring a school group to Whitlingham Country Park?
Yes, the park offers a wide range of fantastic outdoor learning opportunities! We currently have resources available to hire for self-led visits. Find out more here (link to booking page). Please contact us (link to contact form) if you are planning to bring a school group so we are aware, even if you are not using our education resources.
OTHER FAQs
Can I film at the Park?
Filming is allowed, but you must seek permission in advance. The Park is regularly used by student groups and professional production companies. Please fill in our application form and email to admin@whitlinghamcountrypark.com when completed.
Can I fly my drone in the park?
Drones are not permitted in the park. If you wish to use a drone for filming or photography, please see the filming policy and contact us to make arrangements.
Can I install a bench or plant a tree in memory of a loved one?
We understand that the park holds a special place in the hearts of many visitors. We are currently at full capacity for installing new memorial benches.
If you would like to join our waiting list, then please get in touch.
Memorial trees are only approved in exceptional circumstances.
I’ve seen a wild animal in distress, who do I contact?
Always call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 to report cruelty or an animal in distress.