Horsey Windpump

Our View

You can climb the five floors of this lovely, newly restored old traditional windmill-like windpump built 100 years ago to drain the area, and see its inner workings, such as the drive shaft and giant cogs. From the top, there are panoramic views over Horsey Mere and the surrounding countryside. Grade II listed, the building features red-brick walls and a handsome weatherboarded cap in the shape of a boat. It was rebuilt in 1912 by Dan England, a noted Norfolk millwright, and was in full working order when it was struck by lightning in the 1940's. It has since been fully restored and is now owned by the National Trust. The windpump stands in an idyllic and remote spot on the edge of the Norfolk Broads overlooking Horsey Mere and marshes, noted for their wild birds and insects. The whole area is regarded as being internationally important for the conservation of a number of natural habitats found here. Wait long enough and you’ll see hundreds of wigeon in winter, along with teal, shoveler, pochard, gadwall, goldeneye and tufted duck. Bitterns may be seen at any time of year. Look for stonechats, yellow wagtails and grasshopper warblers if you head towards the dunes. You might also spot two rare warblers – Cetti’s and Savi’s. The former is a newcomer, and the latter is returning to areas where it was once common. A great way to appreciate the pump’s setting is to take a walk around Horsey Mere along the signposted footpath.