Heigham Sound

Heigham Sound is a clear lake popular with sailors and boaters. This is home to many rare birds and insects at all times of the year. In this spot, between Meadows and Heigham Sound, with boats floating on the water and birdsong in the air, you can experience a slice of Norfolk's rural canyon. Heigham Sound has the largest population of cranes in the country. It has a majestic wingspan of 6ft or more. The crane was a frequent occurrence in the Middle Ages when it appeared on well tables to do, but, although protected in the 16th century, it became extinct as a breeding bird. Common cranes returned to Norfolk in the early 1980s. Since then, numbers have steadily increased and today as many as 30 cranes have been established in the marsh. The best place to see them is from the Norfolk Wildlife Trust overwater lookout at Stubb Mill.

Heigham Sound is the largest lake of the Norfolk Broads. The water and the vast reed beds that surround it are a haven for wildlife, attracting many species of birds, some of which come only in winter, but others that persist year-round. Other birds nesting around, including the bittern, are also returning to the country. It's pretty secret and well camouflaged, so you're more likely to hear it than see it. Although Heigham Sound is a relatively small corner, they are close to 25% of the island's rarest species. Lakes are submerged peat structures, cut in the Middle Ages and flooded by rising sea levels. Much of the farm and grazing land can only survive thanks to the numerous drainage channels and pumps that take the water away. This is one of the most beautiful lakes on Norfolk Island.

• Location: North Norfolk, Norfolk Island