Venetian Waterways

The Venetian Waterways is a charming seven-acre park located in Great Yarmouth on the East Coast of England. It consists of two distinct areas: the Boating Lake and Café to the north and the Venetian Waterways to the south. The Boating Lake has picturesque appeal with rock gardens and an island shelter, while the Venetian Waterways feature serpentine canals, ornamental structures, and vibrant planted gardens.

Designed by Mr. S P Thompson, the Borough Surveyor and constructed between 1926-28 by 427 unemployed men as part of a post-World War I unemployment relief program. The channels and lake were painstakingly dug by hand. As you explore the park, you will discover winding rivers perfect for gondolas, paths that lead through rock gardens to picturesque bridges over serpentine canals, and several charming thatched shelters. The Boating Lake, a man-made seafront attraction, is the last of its kind in the region. The Waterways' unique design, featuring serpentine canals and faux Cottage Ornee features, is recognized and celebrated.

In 2017, Great Yarmouth Borough Council embarked on an extensive restoration project to revive the Waterways to its former glory. The £2.7 million restoration project reintroduced boats and pedalos to the lake and replanted thousands of new plants following the original 1920s design.

When you visit the park, you can enjoy leisurely walks through the beautiful gardens and around the boating lake. Don't forget to stop by the delightful café, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can even hire boats and pedalos to explore the Waterways.