by Katie Thompson
It’s no secret that mums are some of the best people around. And whilst we like to celebrate them all year round, Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to show your mum how much you love her.
So, when it comes to gifts, why not make it extra special this year? Whether it’s an unforgettable meal out, a fantastic family experience or a one-of-a-kind creation as unique as she is. In Norwich (and Norfolk!) there are loads of local delights to treat your mum to this Mother’s Day- see our top picks below!
Norwich’s finest restaurants are sure to make mum the star of the show
On Mother’s Day itself, some of Norwich’s finest restaurants are sure to make mum the star of the show. At The Last, raise a toast with a glass of bubbly, and indulge in a delicious Sunday Lunch at the Maids Head’s WinePress restaurant.
Afternoon tea at The Assembly House is always memorable, especially when you’re in such stunning interiors. Plus, it’s easy to enjoy their tiers of delightful delicacies even when there’s more than two of you. So, make your mum feel really loved with scones, sweet treats and all your siblings under one roof!
And if if you can’t do it on the day, we recommend making your mum feel extra special with a fine dining lunch at Benedicts (Tuesday – Saturday). You can dress up, sip on a flute of fizz, and enjoy a three-course menu of wonderful seasonal dishes.
With young children, celebrate Mother’s Day with a day out for every member of the family
When you’re a mum with young children, chances are you’ll want to spend Mother’s Day all together- and doing something everyone enjoy. That goes for the grandparents, too!
This might mean a steam trip along daffodil-lined tracks taking in Norfolk’s impressive vistas with Bure Valley Railway. Or perhaps it’s a trip to Pensthorpe. Here, you can stroll among the swathes of snowdrops and colourful blooms while your little ones dart in and out of bird hides.
Meanwhile, Holkham’s sweeping grounds, deer-filled parkland and magnificent interiors (not to mention the proximity to the beach!) make it ideal for a day out whether the sun is shining, or you need your raincoats!
And you can’t go wrong with the zoo. Nowhere else is the importance of a mum so clear. From Banham Zoo and Africa Alive to Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens, there’s something about seeing these magnificent creatures (and their young) up close no matter how old you are.
What about a whisky tasting or food and drink tour?
When you’re not sure what gift to buy, what about an experience instead? This is a great chance to spend some quality time with your mum and create some memories together.
If it’s food and drink you’re looking for, you can go behind-the-scenes at The English Distillery (just off the A11 at Roudham) with a whisky tour or tasting. There’s even the chance for mum to blend her own bottle of whisky! Or if you prefer to catch-up over a tipple or two, then Cheryl Cade’s food and drink tours will take you to some of Norwich’s best venues for gin, beer, and cheese!
One of our favourite things to do is get out in Norfolk’s amazing countryside for a breath of fresh air. A relaxing walk in nature at one of our county’s many reserves, Broads and beaches makes for a lovely day out. And after a walk, it would be wrong not to stop at a quaint café for a cup of tea and a slice of cake!
Speaking of the Broads, Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden offers peaceful boat trips on their private waters, gliding along the River Bure and past the ruins of St Benet’s Abbey. Think picturesque views and springlike bird song.
Shop incredible indies all in one place at the Royal Arcade
There’s something exciting about watching your mum unwrap a well-considered present. And thanks to our city’s array of independents, there are loads of places to pick something out from.
At Jarrolds, you’ll be spoilt for choice. You can find everything from beautiful stationery and coffee-table books to sweet-smelling candles and chic fashion accessories. Plus, their hampers include cheese and wine, chocolate, and local Norfolk produce!
For incredible indies all in one place, we recommend a trip to the Royal Arcade. There’s sustainable makeup at Juni + Co, whilst Lazy Lobster is ideal for popping prints and fun homeware. Plus, you can’t go wrong with a sweet selection from Macarons & More!
And we just can’t deny that a bunch of fresh flowers brightens up any day. So, why not treat your mum to a beautiful bouquet from Cary’s on Norwich Market?
