Norwich is dominated by its magnificent
cathedral, boasting the largest cloisters in England, the second tallest spire in the country and an amazing 1,200 stone roof bosses. The award-winning
Refectory Restaurant has views of the Cathedral and its picturesque
Close. The Norwich School, in the grounds of the Close, was attended by naval hero Lord Nelson. At the end of the Close, Pull’s Ferry, an old Watergate, stands on the River Wensum.
Norwich still has a delightful jumble of medieval streets, lanes and alleys lined with small speciality shops, many within the
Norwich Lanes, and attractive half-timbered houses, most notably the cobbled Elm Hill – Norwich boasts over 40 per cent specialist and independent retailers. The city also has modern precincts and two impressive
shopping centres, making it one of the top five places to shop in the UK.
The recently refurbished market, which stands below the Castle, is the largest open-air market in the country with stalls selling a wide range of goods, 6 days a week.
The 12th century Castle is one of the finest Norman secular buildings in Europe. Today, as the county’s principal museum, it is packed with treasures. Its resident collections are of national importance and visiting exhibitions include works from the Tate.
Bridewell Museum (local trades and industries), Strangers Hall (a fascinating museum of English domestic life) and the Royal Norfolk Regimental Museum are also well worth a visit. Dragon Hall, a fine 15th century merchants’ house, with a superb dragon crown-post roof, has recently been extensively restored.
In contrast to the City’s medieval buildings, is the architecturally stunning Forum. The Forum is home to the local BBC studios and Norwich’s public library. Enjoy superb views of St Peter Mancroft church (the largest church in Norwich) and beyond, from the first floor restaurant, PizzaExpress.
Norwich has over 30 medieval churches within the city walls alone. Many still function as parish churches, but others have been imaginatively converted to other uses. Inspire, a hands-on science attraction, Norwich Arts Centre and Norwich Puppet Theatre are just a few examples.
The city is also home to the impressive 20th century St John’s Roman Catholic Cathedral, standing imposingly at the top of Grapes Hill.
Norwich Tourist Information Centre
The Assembly House, Threatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RQ
Tel: 01603 727927 or 00 44 1603 727927
Fax: 01603 765389
Email: tourism@norwich.gov.uk