It's often said that Norwich has a church for every week of the year, but a pub for every day, and it's a saying that sums up the city and its people well. This is a place filled with history and culture, but it’s also a place filled with fun: good food, unforgettable experiences, and stunning scenery make it an excellent choice for a day out, or short break. Read on for some of the best things to do in Norwich, the beautiful city of Stories.
Visit Norwich Cathedral
For newcomers to Norwich, a visit to the city's famous cathedral is normally the first thing to be checked off the "things to do" list. Completed in 1145, Norwich Cathedral has the second largest cloisters in England, and also the second-tallest spire, which can be seen from all over the city. Choose to either attend a service, or simply take a guided tour: there'll be tea and cake waiting for you in the refectory when you're done!
Check out Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery
Where you can you visit a Norman keep that's also a modern-day museum and art gallery? Only in Norwich, of course! Looking down on the city from its artificial mound, the castle's gallery is home to exhibitions of contemporary art, while the museum has sections covering natural history and medieval weaponry, amongst other topics.
Go on a pub crawl
In a city which has 10 pubs per square mile it's fair to say you're never going to run out of options. The Ribs of Beef has a riverside terrace to watch the world float by from, the colourfully-named Murderers dates back to 1696, and The Eagle is the perfect space for a traditional Sunday roast. If none of those take your fancy, though, you shouldn't have to look too far to find the perfect venue to suit your tastes!
Go boating in the Norfolk Broads
The Norfolk Broads are one of the most beautiful parts of the British countryside, and they're right outside the city of Norwich. Boating is just one of the activities available in the area, however: Broads National Park is also popular with walkers, cyclists and wildlife enthusiasts, so pack up a picnic and enjoy the beautiful English countryside at its very best.
Wander around Norwich Market
Trading every day except Sunday, and with almost 200 different stalls offering everything from flowers and food to arts and crafts, Norwich Market is the perfect place to lose yourself in a riot of sound, colours and scents. It's been operating since the 11th century, making it a key part of Norwich's history, as well as a great place to shop.
Get the adrenaline pumping on the motorcycle track
The Yamaha Motorcycle Track Experience is suitable for everyone from complete novices to more experienced riders, and allows you to take your pick from the 20-vehicle fleet, and spend some serious track time on it.
Explore a stately home
A short drive from Norwich city centre, the 17th century Felbrig Hall has a walled garden and extensive grounds to explore, in addition to the house itself, which has remained unaltered since it was built.
Shop until you drop
Like any UK city, Norwich offers a wealth of different shopping experiences, from glossy malls to smaller, independent boutiques. Castle Quarter is the newest mall in the city, and has the usual mix of high street stores, plus restaurants and cinema. For a more eclectic experience, meanwhile, Norwich Lanes is home to a selection of independent retailers, pubs sand bars, and The Royal Arcade is a covered Victorian Shopping Arcade which is worth visiting for its appearance alone.
Take afternoon tea with a difference
There are plenty of places to sample afternoon tea in Norwich, but not many which will allow you to create your own custom scent while you're there! The Design Your Own Perfume with Afternoon Tea experience, however, does exactly that: after enjoying your tea with a glass of sparkling wine, you'll be helped to create your own perfume, which you can then take home in its own presentation box.
Romantic things to do in Norwich
Visiting Norwich on a romantic mini break? Read on for some of the best places for couples.
Take a tour of a vineyard
Wine-making may not be what England's famous for, but Winbirri Vineyard, near Norwich, is an award-wining winery set in the heart of the English countryside. Take a tour and indulge in some wine-tasting, or simply relax and enjoy a charcuterie platter in the wine garden.
Set off on a romantic riverside walk
Start in the city centre and wander along the river on this circular route that takes you around the city, past some of Norwich's most famous landmarks and stunning scenery.
Graduate from the Gin Academy
Norwich's Gin Academy is a gin lover's dream and allows you to Make Your Own Gin - with a bit of expert help, of course! You'll also enjoy unlimited gin throughout the evening, and everything you make is yours to take home.
Cheap things to do in Norwich
A day out in Norwich doesn't have to be expensive: there are plenty of cheap - or even free - activities to enjoy.
Visit the Sainsbury Centre
One of Norwich's top-rated attractions, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts is completely free to the public, and houses works by Picasso, amongst others. The glass-fronted building itself is also impressive, and a walk around the grounds will allow you to take in some of the many sculptures on display.
Spend the day at Eaton Park
With a boating pond, putting green, rose garden, skate park and cafe just a few of the attractions available at Norwich's Eaton Park, this could easily be a full-day activity for the family. Although there is a charge for some facilities, such as the putting green, there's still plenty to enjoy for free, making a trip to the park an excellent way to enjoy Norwich on a budget.
More things to do in Norwich
- East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden is an oasis of calm just a stone's throw from the city: it has a walled garden, rose garden, Mediterranean garden, and even a desert inspired by the landscape of Arizona.
- The Plantation Garden is one of Norwich's most popular outdoor spaces, and if you visit on a Sunday during the summer months, you can even enjoy a tasty high tea in the garden.
- Discover the history of aviation in the form of the vintage aircrafts on show at Norwich Aviation Museum.
- Step back in time with a stroll at Elm Hill - a pretty cobbled street that's just begging to be photographed.
- Take the kids to Bewilderwood: an outdoor adventure park just a short drive from Norwich.
- The Museum of Norwich is the perfect place to learn more about the city. from its industrial heritage to the Norwich we now know.
- See everything Norwich has to offer from the top deck of a bright red bus tour.
- Catch a performance at the Puppet Theatre - one of Norwich's more unique venues.
- Visit Pulls Ferry: a 15th century watergate which is as pretty now as it was back then, and an excellent spot for a stroll.
- The unusually named Cow Tower is an old artillery blockhouse dating from the 14th century. It may be ruined, but it's still a fascinating and picturesque place, and although the interior isn't open to the public, it's free to explore outside.
FAQs
What to do in Norwich when it’s raining?
The weather in Norwich can't always be guaranteed, unfortunately, but there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy. The Cathedral, Castle and Sainsbury Centre are all good calls on a rainy day, or you could also try visiting some of the city's many restaurants or shops, for a spot of retail therapy.
What is Norwich famous for?
Coleman's Mustard, Admiral Lord Nelson and Alan Partridge are all part of Norwich's history, while the city's football team, Norwich City FC has a dedicated following. Norwich is also known for its excellent fish and chip shops, which are a must-try during your stay, and for its proximity to the beautiful Norfolk Broads, which attract thousands of tourists every year.
Is Norwich worth visiting?
Yes, is the short answer! It may not be the first place visitors to the UK flock to, but Norwich is something of a hidden gem. The friendly people and numerous pubs and bars also make it a sociable city, and an excellent choice for family holidays and romantic breaks alike.
