The Ant Broads and Marshes NNR is part of the Ant Broads and Marshes Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Barton Broad is a medieval peat digging that drains into the River Ant. The surrounding fen was exploited for peat in the mid-19th century and was more recently managed for commercial sedge and reed. Main habitats: peatland Area: 178 hectares Management: Norfolk Wildlife Trust (Catfield Fen Reserve is owned and managed by Butterfly Conservation) Features of interest The broad is ringed by areas of reedswamp that provide a nesting habitat for wildfowl such as gadwall, pochard, teal, shoveler and tufted duck. There is a large population of swallowtail butterflies, and a significant number of rare and uncommon dragonflies, moths, beetles and flies. The fens are home to the nationally rare crested buckler fern. Nationally important areas of carr woodland (fen woodlands dominated by alder) are also present. Further information about the NNR, its wildlife and special features is on the Barton Broad page of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust website,
and on the Butterfly Trust page on Catfield Fen. Directions The broad is accessed via the A1151. The villages of Irstead, Barton Turf and Neatishead are close to the broad and all have parking areas. The nearest train station is Hoveton & Wroxham, 8 kilometres to the south west. Local bus services are provided by First Group. There is a circular boardwalk on the broad near Irstead but elsewhere access is limited due to the marshy ground. You can take boat trips from the moorings near Neatishead. Catfield Fen is on the eastern side of the broad, 1.5 kilometres west of Catfield village. Catsfield is near the A149 and parking is available in the village. Due to the marshy ground the fen is only accessible on open days, although you can view the area from the boundary. Contact Butterfly Conservation for details of open days.