By Katie Thompson
Norwich is the best-kept secret we can’t keep anymore. Here, it’s all about old meets now where you’ll discover medieval marvels next to modern architecture, munch on world cuisine amongst the multi-coloured stalls of our 900-year-old market and follow in the footsteps of visitors across hundreds of years. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie or open to exploring, we know that Norwich will have you returning again and again! This is our itinerary for an unforgettable stay in our fine city.
Today is one for the art-lovers. Did we mention our city is brimming with contemporary culture and historical heritage? This is old meets now.
The Sculpture Park, Sainsbury Centre
Where to start but the Sainsbury Centre?
Arrive at your destination by bus (take the No. 25) straight from the city centre – what’s just 2 miles away feels otherworldly. Inside this revolutionary hangar-like Norman Foster-designed building, discover world art spanning 5000 years – including Kneeling female figure (1200 – 1520, Mesoamerica, Mexico, The Americas), Seated female nude (Picasso, 1909 Europe, France), and Goodwood Steps (Anthony Caro, 1996). Nowhere else would you find delicate ancient pottery rubbing shoulders with modern steel sculptures.
And it’s accessible art for all. The museum’s ‘pay what you can scheme’ means we can experience thought provoking exhibitions with the likes of light installations and immersive virtual reality for nothing or a donation. And the museum is the only art museum in the world to recognise art as living. So, yes, you can hug a Henry Moore.
It might not be your conventional time-travelling machine, but, believe us, the number 25 bus can take you back 900 years. This wouldn’t be a trip to Norwich without visiting the Castle: we invite you to come face to face with centuries of history all in one place.
Sitting high above the streets of Norwich, the castle has just opened its new restaurant and entrance where for the first time (in a very long time) we can now see the medieval East façade. This is the first phase of the castle’s grand renovation which will later see the Keep returned to its medieval status as well as open a ‘Gallery of Medieval Life’ in partnership with the British Museum (the first of its kind outside London).
But whilst we wait for the Keep (and battlements) to re-open, the museum’s five art galleries offer a myriad of art. Our choice has to be ‘Holding Space’ – dedicated to modern art, see paintings, photography, visual art and more.
The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant
We think there’s no better way to end your day than with mouth wateringly good food and drink. And Norwich has plenty to choose from because this is a city where the finest is brewed, foraged and farmed locally. We suggest a short amble through the cobbled walkways of the Norwich Lanes and across the river to Norwich’s Creative Quarter, where you’ll find The Last.
This is a cosy, buzzing wine bar and restaurant set in an old shoe factory. In fact, it’s even named for the molds shoes are made on. Local ingredients are the name of the game and menus change seasonally – so you’ve already found the perfect excuse to come back!
Take a look at their wine menu- there’s something for everyone (that means alcohol-free, too). But if you want something a bit different, try one of their cocktails. We’ve got our eyes on their signature- The Last 75. Its ingredients include lemon, strawberry cheong, rose champagne and Plantation Barbados rum. Ooooh!
The Details
Visit: Sainsbury Centre, free or a donation; Norwich Castle, from £7.80.
Eat & Drink: The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant, glass of wine from £5, menu du jour £26 for 2 courses.
Shop: Atwin independent womenswear and lifestyle store, accessories from £7; Jarrolds department store, gift hampers from £20.
Stay: The Assembly House, from £170 per night for bed & breakfast.
Now, we all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but here in Norwich, we do it a little differently.
On that note, why not start your day with Beforenoon Tea at The Assembly House? This grand Georgian building comes complete with its own chandelier-adorned ballroom, but we know you’re probably here for their multi-award-winning themed afternoon teas- just don’t forget to book in advance!
The morning’s your chance to taste The Assembly House’s breakfast offering: a hot breakfast accompanied by a towering tea stand of sweet and savoury treats. Follow up your eggs benedict with 3 tiers of Assembly House classics, including their indulgent three-cheese toastie and warm sausage roll- this is not one to be missed! And if you can’t eat it all, you can take away your pastries safely home with you.
South Asia Collection Museum & Shop (Country and Eastern)
Just a stone’s throw away, tucked off Bethel Street, is the South Asia Collection. This museum is one of Norwich’s lesser-known gems and a VisitNorwich favourite where you’ll uncover a richly coloured display celebrating the traditional arts and crafts of South East Asia. Fun fact: this used to be a Victorian roller-skating rink- just take a look at its arched wooden ceiling!
While you’re there, we couldn’t let you leave without a visit to their Country and Eastern shop. Browse the beautiful range of handmade rugs, clothing and furniture and treat others (or yourself!) to a gift that’s as traditionally different as Norwich, from decorative dishes to hand-printed textiles and intricate deities.
The Royal Arcade
Just a few minutes’ walk and make your way through the multi-coloured rooftops of Norwich’s iconic market to find yourself at the Art Nouveau entrance of the Royal Arcade. A glistening gem full of unique independents and eateries like Yalm food hall, here you’re sure to find something to your liking. Whether it’s bespoke jewellery or sustainable skincare, with a sweet macaron thrown in for good measure, make sure it’s on your must-see list!
Don’t miss the opportunity to look up when you’re in the Royal Arcade. Its eye-catching style was designed by local architect George Skipper over a hundred years ago, he’s well-known among these parts. And if you’re in Norwich on a weekday, we recommend fitting in a visit to another of Skipper’s gems: Marble Hall. We can assure you won’t be disappointed.
Moving into the evening, did we mention Norwich is known as the City of Stories? We think Norwich Story Walks’ Weird & Wonderful Story Walk is the perfect way to enjoy your time discovering the lesser-known secrets of our fine city. Uncover hidden stories all the way from City Hall through the winding Lanes, down to St. Benedicts Street and back again.
End your day with a well-deserved drink on the riverside terrace at The Ribs of Beef– one of Norwich’s oldest pubs. Situated on ancient Fye Bridge, why not sip on a spritz while you take in the contemporary heritage around you?
The Details
Visit: South Asia Collection, free entry; Norwich Story Walks, £10 per person.
Eat & Drink: Beforenoon Tea at The Assembly House, £27.95 per person; Yalm and Macarons & More in the Royal Arcade; The Ribs of Beef pub.
Shop: Country & Eastern, gifts under £5; Sonkai, ethical and bespoke jewellery.
For our first stop, we’re taking it slow with a stroll along the river Wensum. This is where city life and the natural world intertwine– did you know Norwich is the only city in England in a national park?
Our fine city sits along the river Wensum
Over the water in Norwich’s Creative Quarter, begin at Norwich Theatre Playhouse, heading east along the riverside path past Pub & Paddle (see the map below). On the St. George’s Street Bridge, you’ll notice several red brick buildings- these are home to Norwich University of the Arts, a place of cultural creativity and innovation. While you’re there, keep an eye out for the city’s resident otter- you might be one of the lucky few to spot him!
Continue on this meandering walkway- it’s the same path as the city’s old medieval trade route, only cargo boats have been replaced with paddleboards! Take note because later in the day it’s the perfect place for a riverside pub pitstop. And the path is great for spotting local heritage sites. Take in the picturesque landmarks of St James Mill (1836) and Cow Tower (1398) on your left and Pull’s Ferry (1400s) on your right, using the cathedral spire as your guide- that’s where we’re headed next.
Bread Source at the Refectory Cafe in Norwich Cathedral
Entering Norwich Cathedral via the charming green of Cathedral Close, visit the Refectory Café above its cloisters. It’s a bright and airy space where medieval meets modern within the cathedral walls.
Upstairs you’ll discover Bread Source, an artisan bakery well-known for its many spots around the city. Open daily, it’s the perfect place to pop in for cake and a catch-up or light lunches. We think the coffee’s pretty good, too. Between their freshly baked loaves and the warming scent of flaky pastries, we find it hard to choose sweet or savoury.
Just a few minutes’ walk west through Ethelbert Gate is St Peter Parmentergate church on King Street. Here, not all is as it seems. This is, in fact, Pete’s Park, an indoor skatepark run by not-for-profit Community East. Yes, it’s in a 15th century church. And, yes, it’s open to the public.
So, if you want to impress your friends or fancy learning a new skill, why not give it a go? It’s just £5 for a 2-hour session! There’s plenty of fun to be had on these wooden ramps (installed underneath centuries-old wooden rafters).
To end the day, we couldn’t let you leave without visiting Elm Hill! It’s without a doubt Norwich’s most famous street and we bet it’s on your must-see list. Did you know there are more Tudor buildings on this quaint and cobbled lane than the entire city of London?
Speaking of Elm Hill, we recommend the Britons Arms as your final stop. It’s a small independent coffee shop and restaurant where you’re sure to savour their homemade cakes and delicious food. And the building itself is one of the sole survivors of the great fire of 1507- just admire its 14th century thatched roof.
Our suggestion: the Britons Arms boasts one of the best Sunday roasts in the city, piled high with all the trimmings. And we’ll let you onto a little secret- you can enjoy all this alfresco in the leafy-green hidden courtyard! Just like Norwich, the Britons Arms is a place that perfectly balances the old with the now.
The Britons Arms at the top of Elm Hill
The Details
Visit: Norwich Riverside Walk, 2-mile footpath; Pete’s Park: Community East, from £5 per session.
Eat & Drink: Bread Source at Norwich Cathedral, sweet treats from £2; Britons Arms, evening meals from £13.
Shop: The Bear Shop, Elm Hill Craft Shop, The Jade Tree and Dormouse Bookshop on Elm Hill.
