Norwich may no longer be England’s second city like it was during medieval times, but it still has plenty to offer visitors including a castle, cathedral, museums, and more. Whether you are a fan of history, art, shopping, sport, or nature there is something for you.
If you are tight on time, I’d recommend focusing on the city’s top attractions. Let’s learn more about the best things to do in Norwich.
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17 Best Things to Do in Norwich
Norwich is city filled with must-do experiences. You will enjoy uncovering the layers of the its history, where every street whispers tales of the past. Allow yourself to be take in the natural beauty and vibrant culture. Below, I share my personal recommendations to ensure your time in Norwich is nothing short of unforgettable.
#1 Go Inside Norwich Cathedral
The #1 thing to do in Norwich must be visiting the Anglican Cathedral. With over 900 years of history, there is lots to discover. It’s the most complete Norman Cathedral in England and one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe.
Inside the Cathedral, take a few moments to look up at the medieval roof bosses, the most of any cathedral in the Christian world. Climb the narrow staircase to the Treasury to see a collection of gold and silver communion vessels from many parish churches.
You can also pay tribute to Edith Cavell, Norwich’s hometown heroine of World War I, who is buried at the Cathedral. Also, be sure to visit the Cloisters where you can walk the Labyrinth.
It is free to visit the Cathedral, but make a donation if you can. It is expensive to maintain the historic building.
If you can’t make it to Norwich Cathedral in person, take a virtual tour here.
#2 Wander Around Norwich Market
Founded in the 11th century, Norwich Market is one of the oldest and largest outdoor markets in the country. Today, there are 189 individual stalls offering a diverse array of food, crafts, flowers, services, and more at very reasonable prices. I like to just browse and see what the different merchants have to offer.
Norwich Market is located on Gentleman’s Walk by St. Peter Mancroft, City Hall, and the Guildhall. You can’t miss the colourful roofs of the stalls. It’s best to visit the Market Monday to Saturday, as only a handful of stalls open on Sundays. (See individual market stalls opening hours here).
#3 Explore Norwich Castle
Norwich Castle was founded by William the Conqueror sometime around 1067. Before Henry II built Orford Castle in the mid-12th century, Norwich was the only major royal castle in East Anglia. Today only the castle keep remains and it has been a museum since 1895. It is a Grade I-listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
Inside the keep nothing remains of its medieval layout. You can explore the castle and learn about its history through interactive displays. They also offer tours of the dungeon and the battlements. It’s one of the best attractions in Norwich for kids.
In the exhibition area next to the keep, they have a broad collection of fine art, including costume, textiles, jewellery, glass, ceramics, teapots, and silverware. There are also displays about Boudica and the Romans, Anglo Saxons and Vikings, and Egyptians as well as a Natural History Gallery.
If you want to visit Norwich Castle, it’s best to book your tickets online in advance here. You may be able to purchase unsold tickets when you arrive but availability is not guaranteed.
Note: Norwich Castle is currently undergoing a £13.5m project to transform the castle keep. The Norwich Castle: Royal Palace Reborn Project will cause some planned closures. The medieval Castle building and the Anglo Saxon and Viking galleries are currently closed, but most galleries are open, including Art, Decorative art, Natural History, Boudicca and the Romans and the Regimental Displays. Admission is accordingly reduced. Get more information here.
#4 Visit Sainsbury Centre for the Arts
The Sainsbury Centre, located on the University of East Anglia (UEA) campus, is known both for it’s architecture and the collection of artwork inside. It was one of the first major public buildings to be designed by the architects Norman Foster and Wendy Cheesman. You might recognize it from the film Avengers: Age of Ultron and Ant-Man.
Opened in 1978, the museum is home to the Robert and Lisa Sainsbury Collection which includes artwork from different periods and cultures. You can see work from famous artists including Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas, Francis Bacon, Jacob Epstein, Henry Moore, and Paul Gauguin. They also have special temporary exhibits – check to see what’s on here.
Tickets are offered on a ‘Pay If and What You Can’ basis. There may be additional charges to see the some special exhibitions like Leiko Ikemura: Usagi in Wonderland or Pablo Picasso: The Legacy of Youth.
#5 See a Live Theatre Show
Norwich may not have the West End, but it does have the Norwich Theatre Royal. Now more than 250 years old, it’s one of the oldest in the country. The current building dates back to 1935, but was refurbished in 2007 so feels quite modern.
They regularly host touring productions and put on a Panto every Christmas. Check out the calendar for Norwich Theatre Royal here.
You might also like to check out the offerings at the Maddermarket Theatre, which has been described by BBC Norfolk as the people’s theatre. Find a listing of their upcoming shows here.
You can also enjoy shows at several other theatres in Norwich.
#6 Go Shopping
Norwich Market is not the only place to go shopping in the city centre. There are also lots of independent boutiques, a local department store (Jarrolds), two shopping malls (Chantry Place and Castle Mall), and more. When you go to Jarrold’s be sure to go down to the basement where you will find some local food (and drink) specialities.
Wherever you decide to shop, I don’t think you will be disappointed with the options in Norwich.
#7 Stroll through the Norwich Lanes
The Norwich Lanes are a collection of narrow streets, alleyways, courtyards and open spaces that start just north of the Norwich City Hall. In this area, you can find well over 300 independent boutique retailers, cafès, restaurants, pubs and bars, an independent cinema, a community theatre (Maddermarket), two museums, art galleries, and live music venues.
The streets are mostly pedestrianised, so it’s best to wander around the area on foot.
#8 Go to Elm Hill
Elm Hill is considered the best preserved medieval street in England, so it’s one of the places you have to go when you visit Norwich. You may recognize this cobbled street from the snowball fight scene in the Netflix film Jingle Jangle.
The street gets its name from the elm trees that were planted in early 16th century. Unfortunately, due to Dutch Elm disease there are no longer elm trees. While some believe that Elm Hill first came into being in the 13th century, the Briton Arms is the only building now standing in Elm Hill older than 1507. It survived the disastrous fire that destroyed over 700 houses in Norwich.
In addition, to the medieval architecture, you will also want to check out the fossilised keyboard. It was created as an art project in 1999 by Molly Sole who was a student at the Norwich School of Art and Design. The fossilised keyboard can be found at the corner of Princes Street and Elm Hill.
#9 Check Out Stranger’s Hall Museum
Strangers’ Hall is a Grade I listed building that has been converted into a museum about domestic history. Before it became a museum, it was a residence. Over the years, people from various walks of life have lived here including a solicitor, dance master, and several mayors of Norwich.
The oldest parts of the building date back to the fourteenth century but there have been many additions over the years. As you walk through the house, you can see the different rooms decorated in the different historical styles like the Medieval Undercroft, Regency Music Room, and Victorian Parlour. There is also a small but charming garden.
If you are not able to visit in person, you can take a video tour here.
#10 Enjoy an Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is always a delight and there are several places that make it special in Norwich. If you want to treat yourself, book your afternoon tea (or alternatively try the Beforenoon Tea) at the Assembly House.
The Grade I-listed building gets its name because it was the place for the elite to assemble for musical events, lectures, dances, theatre shows, and games. In 1805, it even hosted a Grand Ball to celebrate Lord Nelson’s victory at the Cape of Trafalgar.
Some parts of the building date back to the 13th century, but the main halls were designed by Georgian architect Thomas Ivory in 1754. He made sure the Assembly House would impress even the most prestigious guests with a sweeping driveway, high ceilings, elaborate crystal chandeliers, and grand fireplaces.
At Assembly House they are known for their special themed afternoon teas. Previously, they’ve done Rainbow Unicorn Afternoon Tea, Halloween Frightful Fancies Tea, the Great British Garden Party Tea, the School of Magic Afternoon Tea, and more. During the holiday season, they serve a new Festive Afternoon Tea each year. They also have a smaller version of their afternoon tea for children 12 and younger.
Note: If you are looking for a place to stay in the Norwich city centre, the Assembly House could be an excellent option. Click here to read reviews and check the price and availability.
#11 Go for a Walk
Norwich is a city best appreciated on foot. It has well-preserved medieval buildings along with some beautiful green spaces. There are a few walks not far from the city centre that I love and do frequently.
The Norwich Riverside Walk is a scenic trail that follows the River Wensum around the edge of the city centre. You get to see some historic landmarks including Pull’s Ferry and Cow Tower and beautiful views of the Cathedral. The walk can be done in about an hour, but allow time to make some stops along the way and perhaps grab a pint at a local pub. Read our Guide to the Norwich Riverside Walk.
There are also some nice walking trails in Mousehold Heath just northeast of the city centre. It’s 184 acres of heathland and woodland that is a designated Local Nature Reserve and County Wildlife Site.
A little further away is Whitlingham Country Park. The circular trail around the large broad is about two miles. You can stop at the bird hide along the way and appreciate the wildlife. There are also some lovely picnic spots.
#12 Paddle down the Wensum
If you don’t feel like doing the Riverside Walk, how about paddling down the River Wensum instead. You can choose from kayaking, canoeing, or even stand up paddling boarding.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the scenery and burn a few calories at the same time. The water is typically very calm so while you don’t need to be very experienced, you still need to take proper safety precautions like wearing a life vest.
You can bring your own equipment or there a few places where you can hire boats including Pub and Paddle and the Canoe Man.
#13 Grab a Pint
Norwich used to boast that it had pubs for every day of the year. While this is no longer the case, there is no shortage of places to grab a pint in the city centre. Some serve some pretty tasty food as well.
Our favourite pubs in the city centre are the Murderer’s, Lamb Inn, and Adam & Eve. The Lamb Inn and Adam & Eve both have a good-sized outdoor seating area. You can also check out some of the riverside pubs in Norwich.
If you want to try something local brewed, Woodforde’s is the most popular brewery in Norfolk. Adnam’s, located not too far away in Southwold in Suffolk is another tempting option.
Alternatively, those that prefer wine should check out the Wallow Wine Bar.
#14 Enjoy Views Over the City
Norwich is also a scenic city from above. The steeple of the Cathedral, the City Hall, the Castle, and all the medieval church towers make for a unique skyline. There are a couple places that offer unimpeded views.
You can grab a cocktail and enjoy the scene at the Rooftop Gardens. If you don’t mind a bit of a walk, there is a lookout point in Mousehold Heath by the prison. Alternatively, Kett’s Heights offers a similar perspective but is a bit closer.
#15 Enjoy the Plantation Garden
Just behind the Roman Catholic Cathedral, you will find a three-acre Grade II English Heritage registered garden. The Plantation Garden, known locally as the secret garden, was established over 100 years ago in an abandoned chalk quarry and is now maintained by volunteers. Sometimes there are special events in the gardens.
The centrepiece is the huge gothic fountain. Around the fountain there are by flower beds, lawns, an Italian terrace, “medieval terrace wall,” woodlands, and a rustic bridge. There are a few paths to walk around and explore or you can just relax on the lawn.
Admission to the Plantation Gardens is £2 per adult. Accompanied children under 16 years old are free.
Read more about visiting the Plantation Garden in Norwich.
#16 Get Some Food
Norwich has a wide range of delicious restaurants and eateries. If you are after a quick bite or something casual, there are some interesting options at the Norwich Market. Not too far away, there is the Grosvenor Fish Bar, which serves up some of the best fish & chips in Norwich.
Some of the other Norwich restaurants that we love are:
- Gem of Norwich – Right across from the Norwich Train Station you will find this gem. They serve up delicious Turkish food.
- Benoli – Get some amazing Italian food, including homemade pasta, at this restaurant at the bottom of Tifmber Hill.
- Brick – This is the place to go for pizza in Norwich.
- Merchant’s of Spice – With two locations – Colegate in the city centre and also Thorpe St. Andrew – this is our go to for Indian food in Norwich.
- The Bicycle Shop – A former bicycle shop has been turned into a quirky café. It’s a lovely spot for brunch in Norwich.
#17 Cheer on Norwich City Football Club
The Norwich City Football Club, nicknamed the Canaries, play their home games at Carrow Road. The majority of seats belong to season ticket holders so casual fans aren’t guaranteed a seat. If you want to see a game at the stadium, it is advised to buy your tickets as soon as they go on sale to the general public.
On certain days, you can take a tour of Carrow Road Stadium. You will get to see the pitch, tunnel, changing rooms, trophy room, dugouts, and more. Additionally, Delia Smith’s, owner of NCFC and famous chef, has two restaurants at Carrow Road. There is the more casual Yellow’s or the upscale Delia’s Restaurant and Bar which are open on select days.
*You might also appreciate these NCFC gift ideas.
Is Norwich Worth Visiting?
Yes! Norwich is a charming city with inspiring architecture, fascinating history, and a thriving cultural scene. From exploring medieval streets and visiting Norwich Castle and Cathedral to checking out shops, galleries and museums, there’s something for everyone. And with great food and nightlife, it’s definitely worth a visit!
Where To Stay in Norwich
If you want to stay longer than just a day (and don’t live close enough to make multiple trips), there are a wide range of accommodation options in the city centre.
The summer months and December are the busiest times in the city, so these hotels will fill up. Book in advance if at all possible.
Assembly House
You can stay at the Grade I listed Assembly House that is beautifully decorated for Christmas. They have 15 spacious and stylish rooms, six with their own secret gardens, six with their own lounges, a bridal suite with its own garden and top-floor suites with breakfast included in the room rate.
Complimentary parking in the car park located on Chantry Road is included for overnight guests.
Read Tripadvisor reviews here.
Check price and availability for the Assembly House here.
Maids Head Hotel
Dating back more than 800 years, the Maid’s Head Hotel claims to be the oldest hotel in the UK. It’s a Grade II listed building where it is believed Queen Elizabeth I attended a banquet. The hotel is also thought to be home to two harmless ghosts.
Located in Tombland, it’s a convenient base to enjoy all Norwich has to offer. They offer free parking for their guests. The rooms all have a flat screen TV and free wifi.
Read Tripadvisor reviews here.
Check price and availability here.
Revado Hotel
Relatively new to the Norwich hotel scene, Revado Hotel is a modern 3-star hotel a short walk from the Norwich Train Station. It offers spacious rooms with unlimited Wifi and an onsite restaurant where you can enjoy the best English, Indian, and a fusion of these cuisines along with drinks.
The hotel gets its name because the word Revado in Gujarati (an Indian language) means to enchant someone with a pleasant stay. It’s a fitting choice as the hotel is known for its excellent customer service.
Read Tripadvisor reviews here.
Check price and availability here.
Premier Inn Norwich City Centre (Duke Street)
Another budget-friendly hotel option in the Norwich city centre is the Premier Inn on Duke Street. You get a super-comfy bed, a power shower and free Wi-Fi. They have family rooms that include a double or kingsize bed along with a sofa bed and pull-out bed depending on the number of guests staying in the room. There is also an onsite restaurant.
Read Tripadvisor reviews here.
Check price and availability here.
Learn more about Norwich city centre hotel options.
What to Do in Norwich England
As you can see there is a lot to do when you visit Norwich. The city has something to offer no matter what your interests. If you are interested in learning about more things to do in Norwich, check out these posts:
- Fun Facts about Norwich
- Norwich Street Art Guide
- Free Things to Do in Norwich
- Best Things to Do in Norwich with Kids
- Things to Do in Norwich When it Rains
- Things to Do in Norwich at Night
- Fun Things for Adults to do in Norwich
- The Most Haunted Places in Norwich
- Romantic Things to Do in Norwich
- Unusual Things to Do in Norwich
- Indoor Things to Do in Norwich
- Best Day Trips from Norwich
I should also mention that all these attractions are walking distance from the city centre so you won’t need a car. There is also a hop on hop off bus (during the high season) if you want to be easy on your feet. It does not go to the Sainsbury Centre, but there are regular city buses (#25 and #26) that do.
If you did happen to drive from London to Norwich, it’s best to use a park & ride for the day as it’s difficult to drive in the city centre. You could also drive and park in the city centre, but it will be more expensive.
You might also want to check out our recommendations for things to do near Norwich.
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