Free Things To Do in Norwich

Norwich’s magnificent Romanesque Cathedral is open to visitors of all faiths and none. In beautiful grounds it’s an awe-inspiring, welcoming building.

The Catholic Cathedral with it’s beautiful stained glass and stonework is one of the finest examples of great Victorian Gothic Revival Architecture.

Without doubt Elm Hill is the most famous street in Norwich. It is also the most complete medieval street in the city.

Away from the crowds off the busy main road, take a right into Surrey Street to find Surrey House – working home of Aviva.

Come and explore Julian of Norwich, medieval English writer and mystic, who lived here at St Julian’s Church in the heart of Norwich 650 years ago. 

Holding services almost every day, this centrally located church is both full of history and life.

This pretty little cruciform church sits at the top of Elm Hill on Princes Street.

Both St Gregory’s church on Pottergate and All Saints’ church on Westlegate are magnificent medieval churches in Norwich. Today, they’re both used as antiques centres where you can discover treasure troves of trinkets, hidden gems, and vintage.

Within the eight districts of Norwich these beautifully designed benches can be found, made of stone, wood and metal.

Explore life in the air and life on the ground through an engaging permanent exhibition. The American Library has books, magazines and events that reflect the amazing diversity of American life and culture.

Inspirational public art museum in a world-class Norman Foster building at the University of East Anglia (UEA).

East Gallery NUA is an important touring venue for national and international exhibitions, providing students with valuable experience in installation and curation.

An amazing celebration of culture, with furniture, art, textiles and objects from India, Pakistan, Indonesia and more places besides.

An iconic building in the centre of Norwich, where amazing free events take place year-round. The Forum is an accessible and welcoming space.

What better way for the City of Stories to express itself than through outdoor art that’s free and accessible for all? Norwich’s urban art trail captivates locals and visitors alike.  

The Halls are an ideal location for conferences, dinners, trade fairs, concerts and weddings.

Dragon Hall is a rare example of a medieval merchant’s trading complex, built in about 1430 by a merchant, Robert Toppes.

Eaton Park consists of 80 acres, including a large children’s play area, a cafe, a crazy golf course, tennis courts, basketball court and skate park.

Whitlingham Country Park sits on the outskirts of Norwich and is the gateway to the Broads, with over 280 acres of beautiful countryside.

Large area of woodland and heathland consisting of walking trails and a pitch-and-putt golf course.

Chapelfield gardens is not only a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, thanks to its fabulous bandstand, events and concerts are held here. 

Following two disused railway lines (26-miles long) between Norwich and the historic market town of Aylsham, Marriott’s way is a popular route for walkers and cyclists.

This walk follows the River Wensum from the city centre to Hellesdon. In spring, the city centre portion of the walk is a blaze of colour.

Cathedral Close is a picturesque 44-acre haven beside the River Wensum, and all are welcome to enjoy The Close and its beautiful open spaces.

With families and friends across the UK and Ireland enjoying Paddington’s latest adventure, PADDINGTON IN PERU, STUDIOCANAL is thrilled to announce that Norwich has been chosen as the home for the latest Paddington statue.

Get ready to meet some of the 50 rescued donkey and horse residents ready to make your acquaintance at Redwings Aylsham in Norfolk.

The National Centre for Writing has experienced an outstanding period of achievement and growth, becoming England’s leading literature development body.

Summer 2025 will see not one, not two, but FIVE majestic sculptures straight from the African Savannah march their way into Norwich and Norfolk.

Learn more about the science that shapes our world with our talks, debates and workshops, on a range of topics from artificial intelligence to ageing.

Chantry Place is a fresh, contemporary shopping centre in the heart of Norwich, East Anglia’s vibrant and thriving capital.

Located in the centre of Norwich, Castle Quarter comprises of 60 stores and food outlets, across five levels of retail and leisure.

The  Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library  is one of the most popular public libraries in the UK and home to the Norfolk Heritage Centre,  Business and IP Centre Norfolk, American Library and Children’s  Library. 

Get underneath the surface of Norwich’s history. over 10 days, historic buildings closed to the public open their doors, revealing hidden histories.

This is one of the most colourful weekends in the calendar. Carnival spirit sweeps the streets with free music, performance, entertainment and a parade.

The Norwich Lanes Summer Fayre is a one-day celebration of this truly unique area, and regularly attracts crowds in the region of 25,000 visitors each year.

Norfolk Open Studios is a well-loved annual event which celebrates the creativity and talent of Norfolk makers and creators. Artists at all stages of their careers take part, from school and college students through to emerging artists and established and professional artists.

Learn more about the science that shapes our world with our talks, debates and workshops, on a range of topics from artificial intelligence to ageing.

Norwich University of the Arts (NUA) is an independent specialist arts, design and media University with a 165 year reputation for excellence.