Norwich, nestled in the heart of East Anglia, isn't your typical bustling city break. Instead, it offers a charm that unfolds slowly, like a well-worn storybook, its cobbled lanes meandering past mustard-colored buildings.
Cobbled lanes wind through its heart, leading you past honey-colored buildings with timber frames that lean close. The gentle murmur of the River Wensum weaves its way through the city, adding a tranquil soundtrack to your exploration. This medieval gem, nicknamed "Fine City," boasts a vibrant present alongside its rich past.
Wander through the charming Elm Hill with its cobbled streets and historic buildings. Elm Hill has more Tudor houses than the whole of London; the quaint street was once the city’s center of commerce, and wealthy residents had their own quays on the River Wensum at the bottom of the hill. The rivers loops around the old quarter, and one of the wealthiest merchant’s houses. Elm Hill 12: The solid Tudor door in the center has its own eccentric story. 22-6 have been home to the Strangers' Club, a gentlemen's luncheon club. Wander the medieval lane lined with independent shops housed in Tudor buildings. Here, you can unearth local crafts, quirky antiques, and delectable treats. Cobbles lie underfoot, and gas lamps flicker at dusk. The Strangers’ Hall, once a hub of silk and spice trade, now houses memories.
The city is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Nestled along the River Tyne, Norwich weaves together its industrial past and contemporary vibrancy. Once the cradle of the Industrial Revolution, this city now beckons travelers with a promise of adventure. As you step onto its cobbled streets, prepare to be enchanted by the harmonious blend of history and modernity.
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Dominating the skyline is Norwich Cathedral, a breathtaking spectacle of Norman architecture. Its soaring spire, a landmark for centuries: inside, light filters through stained glass windows, casting colorful patterns on the ancient stone floor. Climb the hundreds of steps to Elisabeth Fry's Window for panoramic views of the city sprawling beneath your feet. Gothic arches echo with ancient hymns, and the cloisters cradle dappled light. Its soaring nave and intricate carvings are a testament to the city's long-standing religious significance.
Art and Culture
Visit the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts at the University of East Anglia, showcasing impressive collections. The Norwich Art Gallery is a canvas of creativity in a a futuristic building perched on a hill, showcasing an eclectic collection of art from around the world.. Brushstrokes capture fleeting emotions, sculptures stand frozen in eloquence. As you wander through its halls, you’ll witness the dance of colors and forms. Art aficionados, prepare to be moved.
Urban Exploration
Beyond the city center lies a patchwork of boroughs. Quaint market towns invite leisurely strolls, while traditional pubs echo with laughter. Jesmond Dene, a verdant oasis, offers trails for nature lovers. Follow the winding waterways and connect with the heartbeat of the land.
Delve into the labyrinthine alleys of The Lanes, a haven for independent shops and cafes. Lose yourself among overflowing bookshelves, browse quirky antique stores, or savor a locally roasted coffee while watching the world go by.
Beyond museums and shopping, Norwich boasts a vibrant cultural scene. Catch a performance at the Norwich Theatre Royal, one of the oldest theaters in the country, or lose yourself in the world of literature at the Norwich Norfolk Museum & Art Gallery, home to the largest collection of Boudicca artifacts outside of London. In the evening, sample the city's renowned culinary scene, from Michelin restaurants to cozy pubs serving hearty Norfolk ales and the regional specialty, "mushrooms on toast."
Norwich is a city that invites you to slow down, to savor the simple pleasures of cobbled streets, independent shops, and a rich tapestry of history and culture.
Riverside Delights: Stroll along the River Wensum, enjoy boat trips, and explore the Norwich Lanes, filled with quirky shops, cafes, and pubs.
My hotel choice: St Giles House Hotel
For more information see the Official Tourist Information website
One of the five largest cities in Norman England, by 1700 Norwich was the second-richest city in the country after London. Norwich once served a vast hinterland of East Anglian cloth producers whose work was brought here by river and then exported to the continent. Its isolated position beyond the Fens meant that it enjoyed closer links with the Low Countries than with the rest of England With the onset of the Industrial Revolution however Norwich lost ground to the northern manufacturing towns – the city’s famous mustard company Colman’s is one of its few industrial success stories – and this has helped preserve much of the ancient street plan and many of the city’s older buildings.
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Pride of place goes to the beautiful cathedral and the sterling castle but the city’s hallmark is its medieval churches thirty or so squat flint structures with sturdy towers and sinuous stone tracery decorating the windows. Many are no longer in regular use and are now in the care of the Norwich Historic Churches Trust whose website describes each in precise detail.
Norwich boasts a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Explore the 14th-century Norwich Guildhall, a testament to the city's prosperous past. Its Great Hall, once a bustling trading center, now hosts exhibitions and events.
Norwich Market, England’s oldest, bursts with color. Stalls overflow with strawberries, cheeses, and blooms. . Norwich Market Open Monday to Saturday, the city's main outdoor market has been the heart of the city's commerce for 900 years. Almost two hundred vendors sell everything from jewelry to clothing and food. The Suckling House, a timbered gem, whispers of haggling and laughter. Today, it’s a café, but its beams remembers
Wander the lanes, narrow alleys where history lingers. Pottergate Arch frames your path, and the Maddermarket Theatre hides—a stage where Shakespeare’s words still echo. Duck into the Book Hive, where books are portals waiting to be explored.
The River Wensum meanders, swans gliding past riverside pubs, offering a pint of ale. Cow Tower, silent but watchful, stands sentinel. Rent a canoe, paddle beneath medieval bridges, and let the ducks quack their songs. Climb Mousehold Heath: The city sprawls below—a patchwork of stories.
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PLACES
All Saints Church, On being made redundant in 1973, Norwich Historic Churches Trust took it over and immediately spent £8000 on making it watertight. From 1979 it housed the All Saints Centre, a community centre set up by Jo Cook. It was used as a place to serve the community and to provide Christian hospitality for the less advantaged. The church was improved during this tenancy to include a commercial standard kitchen and a first-floor room in the aisle. The All Saints Centre closed in 2015, when it was reopened as an antiques centre and tea room. All Saints sits rather shyly behind its trees in the company with a few other old buildings at one end of All Saints Green. http://www.norfolkchurches.co.uk/norwichallsaints/norwichallsaints.htm
Augustine Steward House: leaning precariously over Tombland Alley, is a half-timbered mansion of great character which was built by the Norwich worthy who held Kett 's rebels at bay in 1549. The raised areas in the foreground, now covered in grass, are said to contain the heaped-up bones of plague victims. of caryatids which support the porchway of what generations of Norwich people have known as the Samson and Hercules Hall, or more familiarly, the Sam 'n' 'ere. At its heart is a medieval manor house, built by Sir John Fastolf. But it has undergone many severe alterations through the years, and is now a dance hall. Augustine Steward's House. Much more picturesque is the half-timbered, lopsided house facing the lower Cathedral gate built in 1549 by the same worthy merchant who held Kett's rebels at bay. Later he moved to Elm Hill, where he built again. The quaint angularities of this building- seem to have occurred in very recent times - paintings and drav\·ings before the middle of the last century show it reasonably upright.
Bank - nice intersection: looks like a Wren church.
Bedford Street, with an agreeable mix of old buildings and attractive shop-fronts. At the top of the incline to the left is London Street.
Bishop Bridge: one of England's oldest working bridges! Built in 1340, it's a historic landmark standing proudly over the River Wensum. Keep an eye out for the telltale curve in the bridge - that's where a grand gatehouse once stood, guarding the entrance to the Bishop's palace. Today, the bridge offers charming views up and down the river, making it a perfect spot for a scenic walk or capturing photos of Norwich's Cathedral Quarter.
Bishop's Palace: Bishop's House and the former Bishop's Palace - erected by Bishop Alnwick in the early 1430s (he was translated to Lincoln in 1436). At that time there lived, across the plain in his town house, that grand old man Sir Thomas Erpingham (immortalised by Shakespeare in Henry V), who commanded the bowmen at Agincourt. All that remains now of his early-14th-century mansion is the tall, six-light window which has been incorporated into the remodelled, restored building facing the tower of Saint Martin's.
Black Tower: Bracondale Hill rises, and there stands Black Tower, its flint face weathered by time. Once, it was a guardian, a sentinel along the city walls. Named variously—the Snuff Tower, the Duke of Buckingham’s Tower, eleven meters high on its inner side, spanning ten meters, it looms over the River Wensum. Here, the tax collectors awaited—their ledgers inked with the weight of cargo. Each vessel paid its dues, a tribute to the city.
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Bridewell Alley: one of the most picturesque walkways in the city, among its attractions being the Mustard Shop, a faithful replica of a Victorian emporium. It was opened in 1973 to commemorate 150 years of mustard milling by Colmans. Along the top of Bridewell Alley (look back for a magnificently framed view of Saint Andrew's Church tower) runs
Bridewell Museum: Immediately behind Saint Andrew's which since 1925 has displayed the history of four centuries of local industries and crafts - old farm techniques and implements, textile work, the boot and shoe industry, metal working and smithcraft, building, carving, clock-making, and the first wire-netting machine in the world, made in Norwich in 1844. The building itself is of special interest, for its outer wall, opposite the church, is the finest example of squared flintwork facing in the city.
Britons Arms: a plane tree occupies its spot, and is thriving splendidly. It throws its shade onto the Britons Arms, the oldest building in Elm Hill, and the only one to survive the fire which virtually destroyed some seven hundred Norwich houses, including all the ones in this street, in 1507. This thatched I 5th-century house, now a coflee shop, was for centuries an inn, and has been in its time the home of nuns, worsted weavers, leather-workers and shoe makers. For long it was the King's Head. But about 1804, with strong Republican feeling abroad, and the country scandalised by the lifestyles of George Ill's sons, radical Norwich reacted by changing to a pointedly native nationalist name.
Carrow Bridge: the Swing bridge over the wensum. From there, on the downriver side, can be seen the stumps of the old boon, towers, from which, when the city walls were intact, a boom or chain could be slung across to block the river.
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Carrow Hill: route down Carrow Hill passes the most substantial surviving walls and towers, the former 20 feet high and more than 3 feet thick. The upper tower is known as the Black Tower (40) because of its black flints. In the no nonsense early 17th century, it was turned into a prison for 'unruly, infected persons'. At the bottom of Carrow Hill turn left into King Street. Immediately opposite is the old Colman factory.
Castle Museum and Art Gallery Castle Meadow, Late June to late Sept Mon–Sat 10am–5pm, Sun 1pm–5pm; late Sept to late June Mon–Sat 10am–4.30pm, Sun 1pm–4.30pm • Charge Glued to the top of a grassy mound in the centre of town – and with a modern shopping mall drilled into its side – the stern walls of Norwich Castle date from the twelfth century. To begin with they were a reminder of Norman power and then, when the castle was turned into a prison, they served as a grim warning to potential lawbreakers. Today, much of the castle is occupied by the Castle Museum and Art Gallery, whose wide-ranging displays spread over two floors around a central rotunda. History buffs will find themselves enthralled by the Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, where Roman mosaics share space with contemporary art installations.
This massive 12th-century Norman fortress atop a grassy knoll has withstood sieges and attacks, though a complete 19th century makeover in soft Bath stone makes the castle look more pretty than mighty. The ramparts, easily accessible from the streets below by elevator, provide lovely views into the countryside, while guided tours of the damp dungeons evoke the harshness of times gone by. The castle houses several museums, with a few standouts in the somewhat staid exhibits—a Roman parade helmet, 2,000-year-old gold neck rings worn by Celtic tribes, and paintings of Norfolk landscapes by late 18th- and 19th century painters John Crome and John Sell Cotman.
Pride of place goes to the Colman Art galleries, which boast an outstanding selection of work by the Norwich School. Founded in 1803, and in existence for just thirty years, this school of landscape painters produced – for the most part – richly coloured, formally composed land- and seascapes in oil and watercolour, paintings whose realism harked back to the Dutch landscape painters of the seventeenth century. The leading figures were John Crome (1768–1821) – aka Old Crome – and John Sell Cotman (1782–1842).
Cathedral • Daily 7.30am–6.30pm • Free, but donation requested • Guided tours Mon–Sat hourly 10am–3pm Of all the medieval buildings in Norwich, it’s the Cathedral that fires the imagination, a mighty, sandy-coloured structure finessed by its prickly octagonal spire, which rises to a height of 315ft, second only to Salisbury Cathedral in Wiltshire. Entered via the Hostry, a glassy, well-proportioned visitor centre, the interior is pleasantly light thanks to a creamy tint in the stone and the clear glass windows of much of the nave, where the thick pillars are a powerful legacy of the Norman builders who began the cathedral in 1096. The nave’s architectural highlight is the ceiling, a finely crafted affair whose delicate and geometrically precise fan vaulting is embellished by several dozen roof bosses. Accessible from the south aisle of the nave are the cathedral’s unique cloisters. Built between 1297 and 1450, and the only two-storey cloisters still standing in England, they contain a remarkable set of sculpted bosses, similar to the ones in the main nave, but here they are close enough to be scrutinized without binoculars. The dominant theme is the Apocalypse.
Cathedral precincts The area around the cathedral covers 44 acres, making it the largest cathedral close in England, and opens off Tombland, the Anglo-Saxon market square. Outside, in front of the main entrance, stands the medieval Carnary Chapel. This is the original building of Norwich School, whose blue-blazered pupils are often visible during term time – the rambling school buildings are adjacent. A statue of the school’s most famous boy, Horatio Nelson, faces the chapel, standing on the green of the Upper Close, which is guarded by two ornate and imposing medieval gates (Erpingham and, a few yards to the south, Ethelbert). Beside the Erpingham gate is a memorial to Edith Cavell, a local woman who was a nurse in occupied Brussels during World War I. She was shot by the Germans in 1915 for helping Allied prisoners to escape, a fate that made her an instant folk hero; her grave is outside the cathedral ambulatory. Both gates lead onto the old Saxon marketplace, Tombland, a wide and busy thoroughfare whose name derives from the Saxon word for an open space.
Chapel Field North: In the heart of Norwich, Chapel Field North beckons with its lively energy. Picture cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, their colorful facades inviting you to explore. The air carries the scent of freshly baked pastries from the corner bakery. As you stroll, you’ll notice the elegant spire of Saint Stephen’s Church.
City Walls: The ancient city walls wrap around Norwich -- Stone sentinels, weathered by centuries, stand tall. As you trace their path, you’ll discover hidden archways leading to secret gardens. Pause at the Erpingham Gate, adorned with intricate carvings, and imagine the comings and goings of generations past.
Colegate OctagonChapel, (1756), The remarkable Colegate, constructed of bricks to a design by the Norwich architect Thomas Ivory.
Cow Tower: Built in 1398, Cow Tower stands proud, named after the surrounding Cowholme. Its purpose? Defense. A sentinel against river assaults, it housed cannons—their iron mouths ready to roar. In three floors it bore—timbered beams and mortared flint. From Great Yarmouth, timber arrived, and bricks—36,850 of them—stacked upon each other. The cost? A mere £36, a fortune in its time. But Cow Tower was more than defense; it was resilience. And when the floods of 1912 surged, Cow Tower stood firm, its walls unyielding. It had seen plagues, wars, and the ebb and flow of tides.
Dragon Hall is on King Street. The long, gloriously lopsided, and creaky old half-timbered house is Europe’s only surviving medieval trading hall built by an individual, the cloth, wine, and spice merchant Robert Toppes. The name comes from 14 carved dragons that once adorned the massive oak beams that span the width of the Great Hall; one of the charming mythical creatures remains in place. Dragon Hall is home to the Writers’ Center, Norwich, but is open occasionally for visits; check the website. It is is a unique, Grade 1 listed, medieval trading hall dating from around 1430, renowned for its spectacular timber crown-post roof and intricately carved and painted dragon. It is one of the ‘Norwich Twelve’, the iconic buildings of Norwich, and is symbolic of Norwich’s historical role as a major textile production centre and as a city of national importance. It is also important as an example of a building built by one 15th century entrepreneur, Robert Toppes, which was effectively ‘lost’ after his death and re-discovered and restored in the 20th century. To find information on these and many other aspects of Dragon Hall, go to ‘History of Dragon Hall’.
Erpingham Gate: At the lower end of' Tombland is the beautiful gate built about 1420, and a continuing reminder of Sir Thomas Erpingham, who lived round the corner in Palace Plain.
Fye Bridge is said to span the oldest river crossing point in the city. Here a ford may first have been established in Roman times which subsequently served the early Saxon settlements, centered on nearby Tombland.
Garsett House: On Saint Andrew's Plain at the corner with Saint Andrew's Street stands known in Norwich as Armada House (35) - a tin1ber-framed building of 1589.
Gentlemen’s Walk, the town’s main promenade, which runs along the bottom of the marketplace and abuts the Royal Arcade.
Golden Dog Lane: The secluded, flower filled central garden of Doughty's Hospital, just off Golden Dog Lane. This quadrangle of almshouses was founded in 1687.
Great Hospital , near the river off Bishopgate, was founded in 1247 to house paupers, care for the sickly (treatments included bloodletting) and dispense a daily dole of bread and soup. The hospital still operates, and most of the medieval buildings are still in use.
Guildhall , just below the castle on Gaol Hill, is one of many remnants of Norwich’s enormous importance in the Middle Ages—it was one of the most important secular buildings in England when was completed in 1413, and it remains the largest and most important medieval civil building outside London.
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Gurney Court: Gurney Court is a grandly imposing courtyard of fine houses.
Harvey's House, is a finely proportioned building with an especially magnificent front door: Ionic columns support a great triangular pediment.
Hungate Medieval Art: museum of church art. Hungate Medieval Art is a charity promoting Norfolk’s colourful medieval history through free art exhibitions, lectures and events at the former church of St Peter Hungate on Elm Hill in Norwich city centre.
James Stuart Garden was opened in 1922 in memory of the man who carne to Norwich, married a Colman, and devoted himself to advancing education for working people. From the corner of the little "horsefair' green, and beside Horscfair House, runs a pathway into the Lower Cathedral Close.
King Street: one of the most ancient ways in Norwich, and until the 18th century was known as Conesford. King Street was one of the grandest thoroughfares in the city; great town houses, with gardens extending down to the river, lined the roadway.
London Street: first of the new post-war pedestrian precincts when it was paved in I965. Without traffic, its handsome, fresh-painted buildings can be fully appreciated.
Magdalen Street, This vibrant street offers a great mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.
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Maids Head Hotel: is said to stand on the site of the original Bishop's Palace, and traces of masonry from that period have been found. This was the departure point, in 1762, of the first regular stagecoach to London,
Market Place The city’s Market Place is the site of one of the country’s largest open-air markets (Mon–Sat), with stalls selling everything from bargain-basement clothes to local mussels and whelks. Four very different but equally distinctive buildings oversee the market’s stripy awnings, the oldest of them being the fifteenth-century Guildhall, a capacious flint and stone structure begun in 1407. Opposite, commanding the heights of the marketplace, are the austere City Hall, a lumbering brick pile with a landmark clocktower that was built in the 1930s in a Scandinavian style, and The Forum, a large, flashy glass structure completed in 2001 and now home to the city’s main library. On the south side of Market Place is the finest of the four buildings, Saint Peter Mancroft (Mon–Sat 10.30am–2.30pm; free; http://stpetermancroft.org.uk), whose long and graceful nave leads to a mighty stone tower, an intricately carved affair surmounted by a spiky little spire, while inside slender columns reach up to the delicate groining of the roof.
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Mischief Tavern. In the front bar is a 16th-century stone chimney-piece which bears on one end the date 1599
Norwich Historic Churches Visitor Center: Trust cares for and finds new uses for 18 medieval churches in Norwich which are no longer used for religious worship. Some have regular opening hours whilst others can be viewed by appointment. The Norwich Historic Churches Visitor Center at Saint Martin-at-Palace Church opens throughout the year on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 10 am to 3 pm.
Norwich Lanes, a collection of narrow alleyways packed with even more shops and eateries.
Norwich Tourist Information Centre is in the Forum, 2 Millennium Plain, Bethel Street.
Norwich Union: Once a hub of commerce, the Norwich Union building stands as a testament to Victorian grandeur. Its imposing facade, adorned with ornate ironwork, hints at a bygone era when insurance was inked with quills and trust. Step inside — marble floors, stained glass, and polished oak greet you.
Norwich University of the Arts: a public university in that specializes in art, design, media, architecture and performance. It was founded as Norwich School of Design in 1845 and has a long history of arts education. It gained full university status in 2013 Norwich School of Art
Old Barge Yard Tucked away behind Dragon Hall on Norwich's King Street, this historic yard was once a bustling hub. Stand where merchants once unloaded cargo from barges on the River Wensum, or imagine residents going about their daily lives in the 14th-century building that now houses Dragon Hall.
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Pottergate: Wander down the cobbled street lined with half-timbered houses that lean toward each other. Pottergate’s name harks back to potters who once shaped clay here. Now, it’s an eclectic mix—a vintage bookstore, a tea room fragrant with Earl Grey, and an artist’s studio where colors spill onto canvas.
Pull's Ferry: most-photographed ...The watergate at Pull's Ferry once straddled the canal - filled in during the 18th century - which the Normans dug to transport imported Caen stone from the river to the Cathedral construction site. The present much-restored building dates from the 15th century; the ferry ran until the 1930s.
Riverside: Follow the winding path along the River Wensum. Glass-fronted restaurants overlook the water, their menus promising culinary delights. Ducks glide by, indifferent to the city’s hustle. As the sun sets, the river reflects the hues of the sky—a canvas of blues and golds. Riverside Walk along the Wensum, heading for the next crossing point, Fye Bridge.
Royal Arcade: a captivating blend of Victorian architecture and Art Nouveau. It has been a cherished attraction for over a century, offering a unique shopping experience to visitors. Location: Situated in the heart of Norwich, the Royal Arcade connects to the prime pedestrianized retail streets of the city. Design and History: Designed and built by Dereham-born architect George Skipper, this 247-foot-long covered avenue opened its doors in 1899.
Saint Andrew's Church: Next door, facing Saint Andrew's Hall, is a soaringly spacious church (second only in size to Saint Peter Mancroft), and still 'live'. The tower was completed in 1478, just seven years after the friars had finished building across the road. The rest was done by 1506 in the full flowering of the Perpendicular style:
Saint Andrews & Blackfriars Hall: portraits of civic and county dignitaries through the centuries, banquets, meetings, conferences and arts even ts take place. The restored crypt (now a coffee bar) and remnants of the cloisters are open to view. During the 17th century, Blackfriars' Hall was the church of the Dutch community in Norwich.
Saint Benedict's Street's old fashioned pubs, gay bars, second-hand record stores and comic shops.
Saint Clement's Church. At the east end of Colegate, on the corner of Fye Bridge Street, is 'There has been a church here since the Conquest, and the foundation rnay be the oldest in the city. But the present building, contained within a trirn and pleasant churchyard, is largely Perpendicular
Saint Faiths Lane Expect a mix of architectural styles, from converted office buildings like the one at number 60 to traditional terraced houses. For a delicious meal or a lively evening, you'll find pubs and restaurants lining the street.
Saint Giles Street: a busy and attractive street of shops, restaurants and bistros housed in fine buildings spanning two centuries.
Saint Gregorys Alley a historical gem. Breathe in the past as you walk beneath buildings dating back to the 17th century, and don't forget to look up at the gabled rooflines and unique architectural details. Though Saint Gregory's Church, the alley's namesake, is no longer a functioning church, its presence adds to the area's rich heritage. This short alleyway is a delightful escape from the bustle.
Saint Martin-At-Palace Plain: a 14th- and 15th-century building, the redundant church incorporating both Decorated and Perpendicular styles, which has suffered much from Victorian restoration. An interesting architectural curiosity is the range of diminutive, trefoil-shaped, clerestory windows to each side of the nave.
Saint Saviour's Church is a small church with a 14th and 15th century nave, chancel and abruptly shortened tower.
Saint Swithin's Alley, which must have been quite a squeeze before the tower was removed. 'There is revealed an attractive thatched cottage, one of the n1ere handful of thatched buildings now remaining in the city.
Shirehall: 1822-3, designed in Gothic style by William Wilkins, who was also architect for the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square, London. Originally the center of administration for the county of Norfolk, it was then for a long period the city's senior court-house.
St Etheldreda is a round towered church which was largely Victorianised. The tower is tiny, the octagonal bell stage as big as the rest.
St George Colegate: Woolpack pub - the latter a real find in Norwich on a summer's day, when real ale and good food, under the shade of the great trees of Saint George's churchyard, become a particular pleasure.
St Giles on the Hill: set in a churchyard with a marvelous surround of venerable wistarias. Behind the church, towards Willow Lane, the ground drops away, accentuating the proportions of the tower, which at 113 feet at its parapet (a charming cupola added in 1737 makes it a little taller) is the highest in the city.
St Gregory's Church: A little further up Pottergate on the left, and its srnall green, marked by Viictorian iron posts, form a charming foreground to Saint Gregory's Church, which now serves as a community arts center. A good porch, big Perpendicular aisle windows and a most attractive Decorated clerestory make a handsome combination.
St John Sepulchre: dates from 1472, has arguably the most beautiful tower in Norwich. At night, floodlit, it is a glowing gem, with tall clean lines, flushworked stair turret and buttresses 'stepping in' at each level, superb Tudor windows at the height of the belfry and richly ornamented battlements
St John the Baptist's: on whose site a church has stood - just outside the Castle's bounds - since soon after the Conquest. The church was meticulously restored in 1980
St Julian's, a historic church with a fascinating past. This Grade I listed building boasts Romanesque architecture and remnants of its medieval origins. Explore the site where the renowned anchoress, Julian of Norwich, penned her visionary revelations in the 14th century. Though her cell is no longer, her legacy lives on.
St Michael Coslany, Norwich: Saint Michael (also known as Saint Miles) -at-Coslany Church (21) is the focal point. It stands amid lawns and trees in a trim square, a superb building belonging almost entirely to about 1500, with soaring Perpendicular lines.
St Michael-at-Plea, Norwich: with its pinnacled, flushwork tower of the Perpendicular period, and attractive two-storey porch (lively Saint Michael and dragon carvings appear in the spandrels over the outer door). The spacious nave is lit by large Perpendicular windows, which makes it ideal for its present use as an exhibition hall.
St Peter Parmentergate: Sadly redundant, and with no alternative use yet found for it, is Saint Peter Parmentergate, further along on the same side as Saint Julian's.
St Simon and Saint Jude's Church: since the 1950s a center for the Norwich Boy Scouts Association. A very simple building, without aisles, it has a Perpendicular nave and a 14th-century chancel but is of very ancient foundation
St. Julian’s Church: Saint Julian’s Church stands serene, nestled near the riverbank. Its flint walls exude tranquility, a refuge for weary souls. Legend weaves through its stones—the story of Julian of Norwich, an anchoress who sought divine revelations. Step inside; the air is cool, scented with beeswax candles. Sunlight filters through stained glass, time slows, and contemplation finds a home.
Strangers' Hall: a place which no visitor should miss. It is, in essence, a medieval merchant's house, centered upon the Great Hall of about 1450 and arranged around a courtyard. Today it is a combination of folk, costume and furniture museurn. Mid-Feb to May & Oct–Dec Wed 10am–4pm, Sun 1pm–4.30pm; June–Sept Wed–Fri 10am–4pm Sun 1pm–4.30pm • Charge Strangers’ Hall is the city’s most unusual attraction.
The Assembly House, a Georgian Grade I listed building, graces the heart of Norwich, United Kingdom. Here are the enchanting details:; ; Historic Elegance:; Designed by architect Thomas Ivory in 1754, the Assembly House stands as a gorgeous Georgian gem
Timber Hill: Timber Hill's uneven steps wind uphill passing a tapestry of timber-framed buildings leaning toward the sky. Each structure has a tale—a merchant’s fortune, a weaver’s toil, a tavern’s laughter. Look up—the overhanging upper floors almost touch, creating a cozy tunnel of history. As you ascend, the view widens—a panorama of rooftops and chimneys.
Tombland: Through the archway under the house is a hive of local lore where fable and fact are indistinguishable.
Upper Goat Lane: the first of a network of ancient narrow streets (several reserved exclusively for pedestrians) which give a particular character to this part of old Norwich.
Wensum Lodge: In the 17th century, the great Chief Justice Coke, Recorder of Norwich, lived there (having married a Paston) and altered it, the great Jacobcan windows presumably being part of his changes.
Whitefriars: beside the river bridge of the same name. In the angle of river and road, now occupied by part of the Jarrolds' printing factory, was the monastery of the Carmelites. This industrial building is magnificent, but is none the less a reminder of a failed endeavour.
Willow Lane Originally lined with willow trees, the lane boasts a fascinating architectural mix. Spot the grand, converted Catholic chapel, now housing offices, with its intriguing past whispers. Colorful houses peek out from the bend, some with hints of the shops that once bustled here. History buffs will appreciate the hidden gem – a former pub, pharmacy, or fishmonger
Woolpack Inn: pub - the latter a real find in Norwich on a summer's day, when real ale and good food, under the shade of the great trees of Saint George's churchyard, become a particular pleasure
Wrights Court: Just up from the church is another of the innumerable Norwich courtyards and alleys which have been rescued, beautified and revitalised. Within the courtyard facing the street, is a long weaver's window, designed to give maximum light to a workroom within this ancient three-storeyed building.
RESTAURANTS - see map
Barnham Broom Brasserie The award-winning brasserie at Barnham Broom offers contemporary cuisine alongside stylish elegance. The menu regularly changes to reflect the changing seasons, and to put local produce that showcases the excellent offerings of the region at the forefront. There’s often delightful daily specials to complement the menu too, meaning you won’t be stuck for choice here!
Benedicts Perhaps one of the most popular spots in Norwich for fine dining, Benedicts has quite the reputation. And there’s a reason for that! A modern British restaurant run by Richard Bainbridge, his credentials speak for themselves. He worked under Michel Roux Senior at the 3 Michelin starred Waterside Inn and won BBC 2’s Great British Menu. And since starting the restaurant in 2015, Benedicts has been named in The Times Top 100 restaurants in the UK, was awarded 3 AA Rosettes in 2018, and included in the Michelin Guide 2022. So, Benedicts should certainly top your list for a meal you won’t forget. Enjoy a tasting menu from £61 or sample the set lunch menu from £32. A raspberry based dessert is topped with mint Benedicts’ dishes will have your mouth watering!
Brix and Bones Having opened in early 2022, Brix and Bones is still relatively new to the Norwich food scene, but it has made quite the impact in this short time. In fact, its made such an impact, that its already been named in the Good Food Guide. Located above Gonzo’s Tea Room on London Street, this restaurant is a real gem, with plenty of delights to discover inside, and sustainability at its heart. Many of these delicious dishes are cooked over an open fire, which the restaurant say is used to ‘take food back to its ancestral roots’. Try the 200-day aged Hereford sirloin steak, or tuck into the pork chop with Korean pesto. Whatever you opt for, you’ll absolutely love it. Round off your plate with a side of Wagyu beef fat potatoes and don’t forget to sample a staple of the restaurant – the bone marrow fudge donut. Two men cook over hot coals Brix and Bones’ unique way of cooking will give your food flavour unlike any other in Norwich.
Farmyard Restaurant 23 St Benedicts St, Norwich NR2 4PF,
The Assembly House If you want luxury, you simply can’t pass up afternoon tea at The Assembly House. Whether you go for the classic afternoon tea, or one of the themed teas that The Assembly House is renowned for, you are guaranteed a sumptuous experience. Right now and until Sunday, September 17, you can indulge in their delicious limited-time Peter Pan Afternoon Tea, which was set up in partnership with the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity! For every afternoon tea sold, the Assembly House is donating 50p to this fantastic cause. Opt for a glass of fizz to enjoy alongside your savouries, cakes and scones to make the most of the decadent food! Then, if you fancy really making the most of your visit, stay the night in one of their beautiful, individually decorated rooms. Gorgeous and comfortable, each night is more than worth the stay here. Plus, after waking up in comfort the following morning, you can also enjoy ‘before-noon tea’, which features a smaller version of their cooked breakfast combined with a three-tiered tower of even more wonderful savouries and cakes! The lobby of a tudor building, complete with a chandelier The Assembly House is the place to go for a great afternoon tea. Norfolk
The Ivy Norwich Brasserie With its beautifully decadent interiors, The Ivy exudes luxury. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a fantastic dinner for any occasion, and perhaps you could be tempted into sampling some of the magnificent cocktail creations they have on offer. The Ivy offer a huge range of menus, from Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, A La Carte, and many more. So, you’ll find something tasty to tuck into! Booking for the restaurant is advised. And if you’re looking for something to accommodate a really special celebration, The Ivy can even accommodate private dining in their luxurious Kingfisher Room, which holds up to 24 guests seated and 40 standing. Booking for this room is essential! A bright restaurant is filled with colour from top to bottom. The Ivy’s interior is just as good as the food!
The Norfolk Mead If you like to dine in gorgeous surroundings, The Norfolk Mead hotel will surely satisfy. In the idyllic village of Colitshall and situated next to the river, it’s not just the view that will prove impressive, but the food will too. Awarded two AA Rosettes, the restaurant only uses fresh, local ingredients sourced from the finest farms and markets in Norfolk. Their menu is seasonal, so often changes, but have a look at their tempting sample menus on the Norfolk Mead website, good luck resisting booking a table! 8. Stower Grange Stower Grange is a traditional countryside hotel, offering up classic dishes at its restaurant. With fresh and local ingredients (the meat is sourced from a local butcher within a mile of the hotel), a menu that changes monthly, vegetarian and vegan options, and a tempting selection of dishes – it’s no wonder this restaurant has received an AA Rosette. A slice of cheesecake with a triangle of raspberries, topped with white chocolate and coulee. Tuck into a tasty new menu every month at Stower Grange!
The Tipsy Vegan, 68-70 St Benedicts Street Norwich NR2 4AR. A hidden gem in the historic Lanes serving mouth-watering comfort food and social drinks. Delicious nutritious food with lovely vegan options. Opening Hours Tuesday 12 00 - 21 00 Wednesday 12 00 - 21 00 Thursday 12 00 - 21 00 Friday 12 00 - 22 00 Saturday 12 00 - 22 00 Sunday 12 00 - 20 00. Contact 01603 666788.
The WinePress Set in the historic courtyard of The Maids Head hotel, you’ll find the 2 AA Rosette WinePress restaurant. Here, you can enjoy fine dining right in the heart or Norwich. It’s a fantastic experience. The WinePress has been highly commended in The Taste of East of England Award at the East Anglian Tourism Awards 2021, and you can see why for yourself. It’s a delightful food offering here, featuring produce from local suppliers, which give the food an extra fresh taste – it won’t disappoint. Treat yourself to two courses or three courses with seriously good dishes, and you’ll leave more than happy. Especially if you’re staying at the Maids Head straight after. A dish filled with green and orange sits. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at the WinePress, right in the centre of Norwich
Turtle Bay Norwich, 8 Swan Lane Norwich NR2 1HZ. Serving Caribbean-inspired flavors all day long! Enjoy delicious food fiery jerk and tropical cocktails. great island-style beach party vibes. Opening Hours Monday 12 00 - 23 00 Tuesday 12 00 - 23 00 Wednesday 12 00 - 23 00 Thursday 12 00 - 00 00 Friday 11 00 - 01 00 Saturday 10 00 - 01 00 Sunday 11 00 - 22 00. Contact 01603 305300.
Wild Thyme, 3 Old Fire Station Stables Labour In Vain Yard Norwich NR2 1JD. A unique café in the heart of Norwich City Centre offering the best of homemade vegetarian and vegan food. Tasty imaginative dishes with a good vegan selection. Friendly staff and fresh delicious cakes123. Opening Hours Monday 09 00 - 17 00 Tuesday 09 00 - 15 00 Wednesday 09 00 - 17 00 Thursday 09 00 - 20 00 Friday 10 00 - 20 00 Saturday 09 00 - 20 00. Contact 01603 765562.
Yalm Royal Arcade Norwich multi-vendor foodhall dining concept. Housed in The in central Norwich Christophe’s Kitchen-- Eric’s Pizza-- Folks-- Baha-- Urban Chowk-- Souk-- NXXDS-- The Diner-- On the Bone--https://www.yalm.co.uk/
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See map for locations and links
3 Princes
38 St Giles
Station Hotel
St Giles House Hotel
Maids Head Hotel
Holiday Inn Norwich City
Annesley House Hotel
Marlborough Hotel
The George Hotel
Premier Inn Norwich Nelson City Centre
Holiday Inn Norwich City
Hotel Belmonte
StayNorwich
Riverside Hotel
Travelodge Norwich Central Riverside
