Read our latest SUMMER 2023 FREE things to do in Norwich for Families.
There’s plenty of amazing free things to do in Norwich. Cathedral tours, secret gardens, riverside walks, and more. Discover our top picks for 2021.
Tour our Cathedrals
Norwich is lucky enough to be home to two stunning Cathedrals and both are free to visit. Norwich Cathedral is set in 44 acres of beautiful grounds and boasts the second tallest spire in England. The Cathedral is full of hidden gems, including more than a thousand beautiful medieval roof boss sculptures. Take time to look up and explore them. Once you’re finished here head down to St John Baptist Cathedral, located on Unthank Road. The beautiful stained glass and stonework make it one of the most impressive architectural buildings in Norfolk.
Norwich Cathedral
Explore our gardens
As well as a vibrant city centre, Norwich also boasts plenty of stunning outdoor gardens and public spaces. In addition to the stunning 44 acres of gardens at Norwich Cathedral, Norwich is also home to Chapelfield Gardens, a beautiful public space complete with bandstand and playground. It’s a great spot for a summer picnic! You can also enjoy a peaceful walk around Castle Gardens, which boasts stunning views of Norwich Castle. Or head down to Pulls Ferry and Cow Tower, where you’ll enjoy amazing riverside walks.
Chapelfield Gardens, Credit ETT Photography
Whitlingham Country Park
A short walk from Norwich city centre is the incredible Whitlingham Country Park. With over 280 acres of beautiful countryside this is a perfect spot for walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers and family outings. Grab a picnic and a blanket, and enjoy a spot of lunch by the water’s edge.
Whitlingham Country Park, Simon Finlay
Norwich Market
Okay, so technically this one isn’t free if you’re after a bite to eat! But no trip to Norwich is complete without at least wandering through Norwich Market. Its beautiful market stalls, complete with delicious-smelling international cuisine and local produce, is a brilliant free experience in itself!
Norwich Market
Plantation Garden
Often referred to as Norwich’s ‘Secret Garden’, the Plantation Garden is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. This 3 acre Grade II English Heritage registered garden boasts gothic fountains, flower beds, lawns, an Italianate terrace, a ‘Medieval’ terrace wall, and woodland walkways. It’s hard to believe this tranquil public garden is only 600 yards from the city centre! (note: Plantation Garden ask for a £2 donation per visiting adult)
Plantation Garden
Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts
Situated on the ground of the University of East Anglia (UEA) is the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts. Set in acres of countryside by the UEA lake, you’ll enjoy inspirational world art, modern sculptures, and thought-provoking displays from artists such as Pablo Picasso, Francis Bacon and Edgar Degas. There’s also a stunning outdoor art sculpture trail for visitors to enjoy.
Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts
Eaton Park
Over 80 acres of parkland, gardens, and even a boating lake for you to explore! Eaton Park is a firm favourite amongst residents, and is a popular spot all year round. There’s also a great local café where you can stop for a cold drink in summer, or a hot coffee on those colder winter days. And if you’re looking to make a day of it, head over to Eaton Park Crazy Golf!
Eaton Park
