The medieval market city of Norwich is situated on the River Wensom in the beautiful county of Norfolk in England. Located around 100 miles north-east of London, Norwich is known as ‘The Fine City’, a phrase coined by 19th century local writer, George Borrow.
With over 1,500 medieval buildings and 33 historic churches within its crumbling mid-14th century walls, Norwich has a higher intensity of ancient architecture than elsewhere in Northern Europe. The city is also home to a lively arts and cultural scene, an abundance of great restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife.
The ancient lanes are lined with oodles of excellent indie shops and a 900-year-old market lies at the city’s heart. Norwich is easy to navigate by foot and most attractions are within walking distance of one another. Not only does the town itself have lots to offer, but it’s within striking distance of the scenic canals of the Norfolk Broads and miles of glorious beaches.
Norwich manages to juxtapose its rich historical past with a contemporary and happening vibe. There is a wealth of fascinating and fun-packed things to do both in the city and surrounding countryside.
The Sainsbury Centre of Visual Arts
Situated on the campus of the University of East Anglia, this award-winning contemporary building was designed by architect Norman Foster. In addition to permanent displays of modern art, sculptures and ceramics (including works by Degas and Bacon), the gallery hosts a wide range of temporary exhibitions. The sculpture park that surrounds the Sainsbury Centre is set within 350 acres of parkland and is home to works by Henry Moore, Antony Gormley, and Lynn Chadwick. Entrance to the Sainsbury Centre is free.
Norwich Cathedral
Constructed between 1096 and 1145, Norwich Cathedral is primarily Norman in style and is one of the finest examples of Roman architecture in England. The stained glass windows, stone, and woodwork, are stunning, and the cathedral exudes a peaceful ambiance. The welcoming guides are happy to explain to visitors about the history and architecture of the cathedral. There is also a surprisingly good café, The Refectory, on-site – be sure to check out the delicious pastries and cakes.
Norwich Castle
Built by William the Conqueror (1066-1087), Norwich Castle became a museum in 1894. The square shaped building regally overlooks the Norwich Lanes from a hilltop. Originally built as a royal palace, but rarely used as one, the castle also acted as a prison between the years of 1220 and 1887. These days, the museum is home to archaeological and art exhibits relating to Norfolk’s history.
Plantation Gardens
Located in a former chalk quarry, these lovely Victorian gardens serve as a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. At the entrance gate there is an honesty box and the amount of £2.00 is suggested as a donation to maintain the park’s upkeep. Paths run on different levels and the gardens are dominated by a gothic fountain. There is plenty of seating and the gardens are an ideal spot for a picnic on a sunny day. The unique surrounding walls are created from pieces of pottery and bricks, and there are nooks and crannies aplenty to explore. Entering the gardens is akin to being transported back in time and there is a distinctively dream-like quality to the atmosphere of the gardens.
Country & Eastern
This large museum shop is housed in a former skating rink and has an amazing array of treasures, primarily from India but also from Southeast Asia. Among the items on display are wood and stone carvings, handwoven rugs, jewelry, and textiles. Even if you aren’t buying, it’s a fascinating place to browse, especially if you appreciate Indian and Asian art. Tucked away behind the market, it’s a rather wonderful hidden gem that is well worth seeking out.
Norwich City Football Club
Known as the Canaries, Norwich City Football Club presently compete in the English Championship League and the team’s ground is located at Carrow Road. Football is an integral part of British culture and sports fans shouldn’t miss the experience of catching a game whilst in town. The English football season runs between August and May.
Elm Hill
This historical area of the city is known for its cobbled streets and Tudor buildings. Due to its quaint appearance, Elm Hill is often used as a background in movies, TV and various commercials. Back in 1507, a fire devastated much of the area, but it was re-built to its former glory. Merchant houses, thatched buildings, coffee houses and specialist shops fringe the cobbled lanes.
Wensom River Walk
This three-mile trail follows the Wensom River and passes many of the city’s attractions and significant historical sights. The walk encompasses Carrow Road, home to Norwich football club, and Pulls Ferry, a medieval flint house and water gate. The trail also takes in Lollard’s Pit, where Christian martyrs were burnt at the stake, along with Bishop’s Bridge, the scene of the battle of Kett’s Rebellion.
Where to Eat
You won’t go hungry in Norwich. The city is brimming with cafes, restaurants, and coffee shops to suit all budgets. Benedicts, run by chef Richard Bainbridge, is a contemporary European restaurant that offers classic food with a twist, including five-course sample menus along with wine pairings. The Café Club is an indie coffee and sandwich bar – the perfect place to kick-start the day with a tasty and substantial breakfast. Bakery and café, Bloomers & Danish, serves tasty meals and great coffee throughout the day. Most of the restaurants use locally sourced ingredients fresh from Norfolk farms.
Shop till you Drop
Norwich has everything if you enjoy perusing antiques, designer clothes, or off-beat indie stores. The city center is known for its market, and in addition to being one of the oldest open-air markets in the country, it is also one of the largest. The meandering Norwich Lanes are in the historic heart of the city, and as well as a wide range of shops, they are home to some of the best examples of middle-age architecture in England.
Jarrolds, established in 1823, is a traditional department store and a Norwich institution. The same family has run the store for generations. Nearby, the Royal Arcade is an art nouveau shopping precinct, with independent shops selling everything from artisan chocolates and macarons to designer jewelry.
In the Pottergate neighborhood, check out St. Gregory’s Antiques and Collectables, a church crammed with treasures from days gone by. Just along the road, Head Above the Clouds is a legacy of the seventies – a tiny shop selling incense and bongs together with hippie clothing from India. The narrow Lower Goat Lane is home to funky boutiques, together with indie stores on both sides of the narrow alleyway. The Giggly Goat specializes in handmade gifts, including homeware and art. Just around the corner, the flamboyant Imelda’s shoe shop offers a range of unique and occasionally outrageous designer footwear.
Norwich – The Perfect Fusion of Old and New
Quintessentially British, with an eye on the latest trends, Norwich is a delightful treat waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, quirky shops, and flourishing culinary scene, this pretty city with a small-town vibe is a destination certain to satisfy a wide variety of travelers.