Access from Lowestoft to The Broads
Mutford Lock, at the western end of Lake Lothing, allows craft visiting Lowestoft convenient access to the Broads. The three bridges to be negotiated before reaching the lock — Lowestoft Harbour bridge and the rail and road bridges at Oulton Broad — all either lift or swing.
Advance notice is required of passage through Mutford Lock and all three bridges; at least 20 minutes before a scheduled opening in the case of the Harbour Bridge, and as much notice as possible in the case of Mutford Lock and the Oulton bridges (preferably 24 hours for the Oulton bridges). Details of bridge and lock opening times are given below.
Approach to Harbour
Bridge from L.Lothing
Bridge and lock contact details & opening times
For information on any bridge and lock closures in force click here
Lowestoft Harbour Bridge — VHF Ch 14, tel. 01502 572286
Subject to prior notification of at least 20 minutes, the bridge will normally open for small craft at the following times:
Mon–Fri: 0300 0500 0945 1115 1430 1600 1900 2100 2400
Sat, Sun, Bank Holidays: 0300 0500 0945 1115 1430 1600 1800 1900 2100 2400
Additionally small craft may pass through the bridge when it opens for commercial shipping, provided prior arrangement is made with Lowestoft Harbour Control.
For more information please click here
Mutford Lock — VHF Ch 73 or 14, tel. 01502 531778/574946
The lock takes vessels up to 22m loa and up to 6.5m beam; maximum safe draft at LW is 1.7m. The lock is manned:
November–March: 0800–1100
April–October:
Mon–Fri: 0800–1200 & 1300–1730
Weekends & Bank Holidays: 0800–1200 & 1300–1930
There is a charge of £11 for single passage through the lock or same-day return. Wherever possible passage should be booked in advance.
Carlton Rail Bridge and Oulton Broad Road Bridge
The lock-keeper will also arrange the opening of the two swing bridges if necessary. Neither bridge will be opened during periods of peak traffic and as much notice as possible should be given, preferably at least 24 hours.
More information can be found on the Broads Authority Website