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Norwich Cathedral West Gate

A GUIDE TO THE BEST OF NORWICH: 21 THINGS TO DO IN 2 DAYS

22nd August 2021

Last Updated on 1st March 2026 by Bejal

In This Article

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  • Pin & Save
  • How to Get to Norwich
  • How Long to Stay in Norwich
  • Norwich: The City of Stories
  • The Best Time to Visit Norwich
  • Where to Stay in Norwich
    • The Assembly House
    • The Old Rectory
    • The Georgian Townhouse
  • The Best Things to Do In Norwich
    • 1. Stroll Around Tombland
    • 2. Visit Norwich Cathedral
    • 3. See Norwich Castle’s Structure
    • 4. Take in the Scent At Norwich Cathedral Herb Garden
    • 5. Admire the Statue of Sir Thomas Erpingham
    • 6. The Ethelbert Gate
    • 7. Take a Stroll Down Wensum Rivercrocket
    •  8. Walk Past Pulls Ferry
    • 9. Walk Up to Cow Tower
    • 10. Walk Up The Pretty Elm Hill
    • 11. Check out the Local Sellers at Norwich Market
    • 12. Check Out The Independent Shops at The Lanes
    • 13. Head to the Medieval Museum of Stranger’s Hall
    • 14. Head to the High-Tech Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts
    • 15. Walk Around The Pretty Victorian Plantation Garden
    • 16. Discover Industrial Stories at Museum of Norwich at The Bridewell
    •  17. Shop at Jarrold, Norwich’s Oldest Department Store
    • 18. The Maid’s Head Hotel
    • 19. Watch a Performance at The Maddermarket Theatre
    • 20. Mousehold Hill
    • 21. The Royal Arcade
  • Some Interesting Facts About Norwich
  • Day Trips From Norwich City Centre
  • Where to Eat in Norwich
    • Breakfast
    • Coffee & Sweet Treats
    • Lunch
    • Afternoon Tea
  • Dinner
    • Drinks
  • Best of Norwich: Things to do in Two Days FAQS
    • Is Norwich worth visiting?
    • What is the parking like in Norwich city centre?
    • How long is ideal to stay in Norwich?
    • Can we do all of the above in one day?
    • Norwich Guide Round-Up
  • Read Norfolk Related Articles Next:
  • Resources To Help Plan Your Trip
  • À bientôt
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Norwich is a vibrant city that beautifully blends medieval charm with modern culture, making it a perfect destination for a short getaway. In this guide, you’ll discover how to make the most of 2 day in Norwich, from exploring its historic landmarks and hidden gems to enjoying local food and cosy accommodations, should you wish to stay the night. Whether you’re in the city for for history, shopping, or great eats, our guide covers where to stay, what to do, and the best places to dine during your stay for the day, or as we did for two, on our visit to the city.

Very best of Norwich: Things to do in 2 Days: Bejal sitting on a bench wearing a red dress and denim jacket with Norwich cathedral behind her, atree and bright blue skies.

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Norwich things to do Pinterest Pin with 9 images overlayed with text. Text reads, A complete guide to Norwich, the best things to see and do

Much like historic towns such as Ely, Bath and Leicester, Norwich has so many things to do that reflect it’s historical past. Located in East Anglia in the county of Norfolk, Norwich is the UK’s most complete medieval city dating back over 1000 years. It features over 1,500 historic buildings within it’s walls and 33 medieval churches, more than any other in Northern Europe, I believe; ladies and gents, introducing your guide to the very best of Norwich! Norwich is small enough to wander by foot and makes the perfect weekend getaway with plenty of culture, arts, antique shopping, a wonderful foodie scene, riverside walks and ivy fronted Georgian houses in it’s stunning Cathedral Quarter. Hidden gems galore to be discovered, just walking the winding cobble-stone streets of the likes of Elm Hill, or taking in the views of the city, or scanning the independents shops and Victorian arcades, be sure to have this handy guide to the best of Norwich as an aide-mémoire.

The grey sign for Erpingham Gateway Circa 1420 on light beige stonework with a bronw gate in the background

How to Get to Norwich

  • By Car: Norwich is only 110 miles North of London, 66 miles from Cambridge, 121 miles from Nottingham, 159 miles from Birmingham and 170 miles from Oxford. It’s easily accessible by road from major ports and airports. The main driving routes into Norwich are the A47, A11, A140 and A146. Car parks in Norwich are well priced with cheaper rates for groups at the Park & Ride (six sites) and parking in the city centre from £6 for over six hours.
  • By Rail: Advance fares can be great value with a journey time of just 90 minutes from London on some services on Greater Anglia, Ride through beautiful market towns like Ipswich and Colchester.
  • By Bus: National Express coaches operate services all over the UK and to and from the continent (Eurolines) from Norwich. Low-cost intercity travel to Norwich can be by megabus.com from a number of places in the UK including Cambridge, Birmingham, and Coventry. From London prices start at just £5 each way with a journey time less than 2.5 hours. 
  • By Air: Norwich Airport is located off the A140, North of the city. It’s easily reached by taxi, or the airport Park and Ride service. Until the end of October Flybe operate into Norwich Airport from Exeter in the South West of England. Flights from Guernsey also fly seasonally with Aurigny between May and September. Loganair fly from Jersey between May and September.

Be-lavie Tips: We would recommend exploring Norwich by foot. This way you don’t miss any of the hidden spots. Buy tickets online in advance to save money and for the best deals.

How Long to Stay in Norwich

 2 Days in Norwich is the length of time to explore the city at leisure and at your own pace as a city break destination or it makes for a great weekend break.

Bejal wearing a red and white dress, standing in front of the wild grass with Norwich skyline in the background. In the distance you can see Norwich cathedral. the skies are cloudy and grey.

Norwich: The City of Stories

The City of Stories is the exciting new brand for Norwich and is a tribute to it’s literary firsts: England’s first UNESCO City of Literature; the first woman to write a book in English; the University of East Anglia (UEA) which pioneered the first creative writing MA; and the only National Centre for Writing in the country.

The spire of Norwich Cathedral with a tree beside it and the bright blue sky behind

The Best Time to Visit Norwich

Norwich is a great place to visit all year around with different festivals and activities taking place throughout the year. For a less crowded time, I would opt for shoulder seasons and avoid the school holidays. I visited in late June when the city was in full bloom with lots of al fresco dining and the longer days meant that there was more time to explore in daylight.  The autumn and winter make for a lovely landscape too with Christmas being a very pretty time, with the medieval streets being adorned in lights and seasonal decoration. If you love your food and drink, look out for foodie festivals.

The peach double faced house with foliage on potter Gate in Norwich
IMAGE COURTESY: Stephen Richards via Creative Commons License CC BY-SA 2.0

Visit Norwich during the Norfolk & Norwich Festival in May. The festival is over 200 years old and the fourth largest international arts festival in the country. Check out the 1930s Spiegeltent in Chapelfield Gardens, home of music, cabaret, burlesque and theatre. We visited in late September so completely missed this.

Where to Stay in Norwich

Here are a few places that we researched for our trip, but decided not to stay the night and instead head off to our base in Norfolk, Willowfen Shepherd’s Hut, Retreat,

The Assembly House

This elegant and historic, Grade 1 listed mansion with a wing of 11 beautifully presented bedrooms makes for a great luxury base in Norwich with a perfect location. The Assemble House has a beautiful restaurant, The Georgian dining room, which is said to be one of the best in Norwich serving a great afternoon tea.

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  • Address: The Assembly House. Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RQ. I Tel. 01603 626402.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other guests are saying.
  • Price Range: ££/£££.
Check Rates & Book The Assembly House

The Old Rectory

Located on the Eastern side of Norwich with leafy surroundings  The Old Rectory is perfect for those who don’t want to stay in the city centre but would like to be within easy access to it.  The elegant Georgian rectory, built in the 1750 in mature gardens of oaks, copper and Scots pine features wisteria and a Virginia creeper-clad façade. The hotel has a great food menu, outdoor pool and beautifully decorated relaxing rooms.

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  • Address: The Old Rectory. N Walsham Rd, Crostwick, Norwich NR12 7BG. I Tel. 01603 738513.  
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other guests are saying.
  • Price range: ££
Check Rates & Book The Old Rectory

The Georgian Townhouse

The Georgian Townhouse is a an informal, sassy hotel with a lively bar and restaurant, a little away from the city centre but within walking distance of sights and shops. The vibe is young, retro and upbeat with hip rooms and relaxed, friendly staff.

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  • Address: 30-34 Unthank Rd, Norwich NR2 2RB I Tel: 01603 615655.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other guests are saying.
  • Price: ££.
Check Rates & Book The Georgian Townhouse

The Best Things to Do In Norwich

Due to Norwich’s isolated location in East Anglia, it was bypassed by the Industrial Revolution so much of the city centre has preserved it’s Tudor aesthetic including its vast number of churches. There is so much to do in the city for culture vultures, the arts, museums, history buffs, photographers, foodies. So no matter what your interests, you’ll be sure to find something in Norwich that takes your fancy…

Bejal wearing a red and white dress standing outside a pink door adn floral archway at Erpingham House i Tombland. There are potted plants at the entrance of the pink door

1. Stroll Around Tombland

Tombland was the centre of activity in Norwich  before the Norman’s arrived in England in 1066. In this area was the palace of the Earl of East Anglia, and St Michael’s church, the largest in Norwich. The name ‘Tombland’ comes from two old English words meaning ‘open ground’, or empty space. This open ground was used as the main market place for Norwich. This is definitely the area you want to spend a fair amount of time in when visiting the city. It also has some very pretty shop facades and cobblestoned streets, which take you back to imagining how things were here back in the day.

The colourful lined houses of Tombland of Norris Court Gardens with cobbled-stone roads.
  • Tombland Area Postcode: NR3 1LB.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.

2. Visit Norwich Cathedral

Norwich Cathedral was completed in 1145 and stands tall at 131 metres and 54 metres wide and built with limestone shipped from the Norman city of Caen. The cathedral is a fine example of Romanesque architecture especially the famous tower from the transept, although the spire dates back to the 15th century as the original was hit by lightning.

The exterior of Norwich Cathedral with a tree in front and patches of grass in front.
The cloisters of Norwich Cathedral with autumn light shining through and a paved floor

Visiting Norwich cathedral is a must in our opinion, it is filled with awe-inspiring and there are so many ‘wow’ moments. There are 61 carved misericords on the choir stalls dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries with a  stunning 14th century retable in St Luke’s Chapel. The Cathedral can boast the second largest cloisters in England, where the vaults are adorned with a thousand bosses.

The interior of Norwich Cathedral with its gothic structure and main alter. There are seats at either side of the alter.
The back end of Norwich cathedral which is covered up by the large trees against bright blue skies.
  • Address: 65 The Close, Norwich NR1 4DH NR1 4DH  Tel. 01603 218300.
  • Find it HereL Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: What other visitors are saying.
  • More details: Opening Times & Admission.

3. See Norwich Castle’s Structure

We walked past Norwich Castle a number of times but couldn’t go in during our visit due to some construction works.

The cube-like structure at Norwich Castle was ordered to be built at the beginning of the 12th century in almost a cube like structure, by William the Conqueror at the beginning of the 12th century in order to fortify the city. A fine example of Norman architecture, it has kept its Norman Romanesque blind arches. One of the reasons the castle is in pretty good shape is because for around 900 years (1220-1887) it was used as a gaol, sat on a mound which is now referred to as Castle Meadow. In 1894, the Norwich museum was established here and today is a great place to visit to view around a million exhibits. You can see models of the building and city from different periods as well as multi media exhibits and take tours up to the battlements, where you can get fab views of the city. It is also possible to visit the dungeons, should you fancy.

The exterior of Norwich Castle which sits on a grass mound. The sky behind is grey.
photo courtesy: creative commons (castle exterior was under construction in june 2021)
  • Address: 24 Castle Meadow, Norwich NR1 3JU. Tel:  01603 493625.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.
  • Further Details; Opening hours & Admission.

4. Take in the Scent At Norwich Cathedral Herb Garden

Literally a few minutes walk walk from the cathedral, we stubled upon the Cathedral Herb Garden is one of the very best in the UK having received a Green Flag Award by environmental charity, Keep Britain Tidy.

Originally used by monks for cultivating plants for both medicinal and kitchen use, the Herb Garden was recreated in 2005 using herbs that match those used by Benedictine monks. Lovingly maintained by a group of ten volunteers, the Herb Garden is now a great peaceful space to relax in and is a fab resource for school and group educational visits.

The Norwich cathedral Herb Garden with overgrown herbs,  flowers and trees growing around the gate and inside.
  • Address: ombland, Norwich NR3 1RF. Tel:  01603 218300.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.

5. Admire the Statue of Sir Thomas Erpingham

Admire the magnificent Sir Thomas Erpingham statue at the Norwich cathedral West gate. Firstly because it was Erpingham who lead the archers at Agincourt in 1415. Secondly because the archers’ success gave us a naughty two-fingered salute.

Thomas Erphingham Gate with the cathedral peeping through at the back and foggy skies
  • Address: 10 Tombland, Norwich NR3 1HF. Tel. 01603.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.

6. The Ethelbert Gate

Ensure you walk through this gate to access the Cathedral quarter which is an access point to the historic city centre.

St Ethelbert Gate, Norwich with it's ornate design and trees peeping through from the left.A must see when seeing teh best of Norwich: thing sto do in 2 days.
  • Address: Queen St, Norwich NR1 4DR Tel. 01603 218300.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.

7. Take a Stroll Down Wensum Rivercrocket

The walking route in Norwich city centre starts just outside of the main station and takes you past vast green open spaces such as cricket fields with incredible views of Norwich cathedral. The walk is lined with heritage pieces such as the Cow Tower, and later Tombland, the site of Norwich’s Anglo-Saxon market, the St Ethelbert’s Gate. A walk by the river Wensum really gives you a sense of the medieval history in Norwich. Keep an eye out for Pull’s Ferry, where the Caen stone was bought into Norwich to build the Cathedral. You will see many colourful waterside buildings as well as the riverside development restaurants, pubs and a cinema.

A row of colourful houses with a stone wall and foliage peeping through from the left. The river Wensum is winding through the centre in Norwich.
An alternate view of the River Wensum in Norwich, with buildings at the end and trees at either side.
  • Wensum River Map Location.

 8. Walk Past Pulls Ferry

If you’re walking along the Wensum River, you’ll notice this picturesque 15th century Watergate known as Pull’s Ferry, where the medieval canal built by monks once passed right under Pull’s Ferry Tudor arch. This is how building materials including the Caen stone from Normandy was transported into the city. The arch is named after the 19th century ferryman, John Pull with the house attached to the gate dates back to 1647.

Pull's Ferry with the River Wensum running through in Norwich. There are trees and overgrown grass at either side.
IMAGE COURTESY: “Pull’s Ferry” by Colin-47 is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
  • Address: Queen St, Norwich NR1 4DR Tel. 01603.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other people are saying.

9. Walk Up to Cow Tower

The Cow Tower was intended to house guns and a garrison of gunners to defend the approach to the city across the River Wensum. Its height of over 15 metres, was necessary to overlook the high ground on the opposite bank. The tower was built as an addition to the defences already encircling medieval Norwich. The ground floor may have been a communal dining room when the tower was garrisoned, with sleeping quarters on the upper two levels.

It is said that the tower’s name is derived from the surrounding meadow, previously known as Cowholme. It has been preserved by the English Heritage.

The Cow Tower stone structure standing at the banks of the River Wensum with a large tree covering the top portion, in Norwich
  • Cotman Fields, Norwich NR1 4AA. Tel  01603 213434.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Review: Read what other visitors are saying.

10. Walk Up The Pretty Elm Hill

Elm Hill is the prettiest street in Norwich, it is lined with cantilevered houses, which had to be rebuilt after a fire in 1507, which destroyed around 700 buildings. These Tudor houses that have been rebuilt feature galleries, cafes and many antique shops that sell classy arts and crafts. The only building that was left here after the fire was the Briton Arms that was formerly an Inn and is now a coffee house which has been run by the same family since the 1950s. Elm Hill is a great photo stop with little courtyards off the main street like Wrights Court, which is home to the Tea House and Wrights Court Coffee Shop. Unfortunately we think our original photos on Elm Hill may have been deleted by accident so we have one below from Norwich BID.

Elm Hill with colourful shops on either side and cobbled stone streets with a slight incline heading up towards the centre of Norwich shopping area.
image courtesy: Elm Hill BID Norwich 2019
  • Elm Hill Map Location.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.

11. Check out the Local Sellers at Norwich Market

Under the Art Deco City Hall, Norwich Market is amongst one of UK’s oldest outdoor markets. It’s located on Gentleman’s Walk and is open Monday-Saturday. The market has been trading on this spot since the 1th century  and comprises of around 200 stalls which  range from florists, household items, handicrafts, bakeries, fabrics, street food and many more. There are some fab food stalls of course with, fresh produce stalls such as cheese, organic vegetables, herbs, spices, fish and Norfolk meat. The popular food stalls consist of traditional pies, fish and chips, churros, Indian cuisine, hog roast, paninis, falafel, noodles and satay.

A row of colourful market stalls at Norwich Market. Stand D is in the image with striped red, blue and yellow surrounding stalls.
  • Address: 1 Market Place. Norwich NR2 1ND Tel. 01603 213537.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.
  • Further Details: Opening Hours & Website.

12. Check Out The Independent Shops at The Lanes

Norwich has some wonderful independent shops in The Lanes. Wander through the old cobbled-stoned streets and support the local small businesses, anything from antiques, arts and crafts, artisan food to clothing. Head to London Street, the first ‘foot street’ in the country when it opened in 1967. Norwich was the first city in the UK to ban traffic from a main shopping thoroughfare.

The Lanes Norwich, independent shops in teh centre of the city. Supporting local businesses for the best of Norwich: things to do in 2 days
  • The Lanes Post code: NR1 1PH.

13. Head to the Medieval Museum of Stranger’s Hall

Back in the 14th century, Stranger’s Hall, a Grade 1 listed building and museum was home to mayors and wealthy merchants. Today Stranger’s Hall is a half-timbered museum recording domestic life in phases of Norwich’s history.

It’s filled with a myriad of passageways, and has a Medieval vaulted undercroft, bedchambers from the 17th century, an 18th-century Georgian dining room and a little formal garden designed with lavender and topiaries.

Stranger's Hall  Museum exterior in Norwich with its cream and brown medieval architecture and grey skies. The courtyard outside has shrubs nad paving stones.
photo courtesy: visit norwich

It also features a Great Hall, where residents would entertain guests and the 17th-century Walnut Room, clad with rich imported walnut panels and two case clocks from the 1600s and 1700s.

  • Address: 4 Charing Cross, Norwich NR2 4AL. Tel.  01603 493625.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.
  • Further Details: Opening Hours & Admission.

14. Head to the High-Tech Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts

A project by Norman Foster and Wendy Cheeseman, in 1978, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts is a high-tech museum and art gallery on the campus of the University of East Anglia campus. It’s where much of the Robert and Lisa Sainsbury collection is housed after being donated to the university in 1973. There are also ethnographic objects from Asia, Oceania, Africa and North and South America, along with Greek and Roman antiquities and art from Medieval Europe.

The exterior of the Sainsbury's Centre for Visual Arts. There is a lawna nd a modern building with sculptors on the lawn in Norwich.
  • Address: University of East Anglie. Norfolk Rd, Norwich NR4 7TJ. Tel. 01603 593199.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.
  • Further Details: Opening Times & Admission.

15. Walk Around The Pretty Victorian Plantation Garden

Plantation Garden is within walking distance from Norwich city centre and is a pretty Victorian Plantation Garden set in the hollow space of a disused chalk quarry. The three acres space covers, flowerbeds, lawns, an Italian terrace, woodland paths and a traditional Medieval wall.

It’s the ideal place to visit if you love gardening and also features a neo-Gothic fountain and faux ruins with gargoyles and a traceried Gothic window.

Entry charge is £2.

Plantations Garden, with a stone Victorian water feature and shrubs, flower beds and trees all centred around a path: the best of Norwich: things to do in one day
Photo Credit: Plantation Gardens
  • Address: 4 Earlham Rd, Norwich NR2 3DB. Tel.  07504 545810.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what visitors are saying.
  • Further Details: Opening Hours & Admission.

16. Discover Industrial Stories at Museum of Norwich at The Bridewell

At a 14th-century merchant’s house located in The Lanes, the Museum of Norwich at The Bridewell, tells the story of business and industry in Norwich over hundreds of years. You’ll learn of the Medieval wool trade, which created a boom in the 13th century, and see some other Norwich signatures like shoes, chocolate and mustard.

The galleries are full of authentic artefacts and children can participate, dressing up and playing with interactive screen experiences.

There are exhibitions charting Norwich in the World Wars, Norwich’s largest vaulted undercroft below street level and a working 19th-century Jacquard loom, the last of the thousands that used to whirr day and night in the city.

The exterior of the Museum of Norwich at The Bridlewell. There is a red sign with a medieval style brown door.
  • Address: Bridewell Alley, Norwich NR2 1AQ. Tel.  01603 629127.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.
  • Further Details: Opening Hours & Admission.

 17. Shop at Jarrold, Norwich’s Oldest Department Store

Mooch around family-run Jarrods, Norwich’s most famous and oldest department store which has an award winning book department with over 40,000 titles!

Fun Fact: It was Jarrold that published 30 million bestseller Black Beauty by Anna Sewell.

The exterior of Jarrold Department Store in Norwich. There are other buildings at either side with a grey sky in the background.
  • Address:  1, 11 London St, Norwich NR2 1JF. Tel.  01603 660661.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Further Details: Opening Times & Website.

18. The Maid’s Head Hotel

The Maid’s Head Hotel is said to be the oldest hotel in the UK and where Elizabeth I is said to have stayed when visiting Norwich. Stay in one of the suites or enjoy the great British constitution of afternoon tea in this Tudor fronted hotel.

The exterior of teh historic Maid's Head Hotel , Norwich. Leaves are partially covering the right hand side of the hotel and there are Tudor style black and white elements to the architecture.
  • Address:  20 Tombland, Norwich NR3 1LB. Tel. 01603 209955.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other guests are saying.
Check Rates & Stay At Maid’s Head Hotel

19. Watch a Performance at The Maddermarket Theatre

See a performance at the Maddermarket Theatre in Norwich, the first permanent recreation of an Elizabethan theatre. The Maddermarket was opened in 1921 and it’s a world class Shakespearean-style playhouse. Even more famous than The Globe!

The Tudor style exterior of the Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich. There is foliage and green tees to the left hand side and a paved grey floor outside.
  • Address: Saint John’s Alley, Norwich NR2 1DR. Tel.  01603 620917.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.
  • Further Details: Show Guide & Website.

20. Mousehold Hill

For great city views of  Norwich as well as the back view of the Cathedral and castle take a short walk uphill to Mousehold Heath. This lovely park high above the city has great views. It’s the perfect spot we thought for some photos that include Norwich city as well as the cathedral complex.

A view of Norwich Cathedral's Spire from Mousehold Hill, in Norwich. There are trees and houses surrounding the Cathedral.
  • Mousehold Hil Postcode: NR1 4NN.
  • Find it Here: Map Location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.

21. The Royal Arcade

Finished in the 1800s, The Royal Arcade is a Victorian style shopping centre packed full of independent shops and is most definitely worth visiting, especially if it’s raining, as it’s covered, and has the most gorgeous architecture. Open seven days a week, you’ll really want to make a few purchases here me thinks!

The ornate entrance of the Royal Arcade, Norwich. The exterior is decorated with blue. and yello tiles.w
  • Address: Norwich, NR2 1NQ.
  • Find it Here: Map location.
  • Read Reviews: See what other visitors are saying.
  • Further Details: Opening Hours & Website.

Some Interesting Facts About Norwich

  • Throughout Medieval times, after London, Norwich was the second largest city in England.
  • The River Wensum is the most protected chalk river in Europe and in Norwich it’s the highest navigable part of the Southern Broads.
  • Norwich is the only English city to be set in a National Park – The Norfolk Broads.
  • Norwich is recognised as one of the top ten places to shop in the UK.
  • Queen Elizabeth I’s friend, Matthew Parker was from Norfolk and said to be the original Nosey Parker!!
The exterior of the Antiques & Interiors Shop on Elm Hill in Norwich. The outside is black with a double-faced front and pale green sides with a brick portion at the top.

Day Trips From Norwich City Centre

If you have time to spare whilst you’re visiting Norwich then we woudl recommend the following day trips to see some of the wider county of Norfolk or even a new historical city. They can both be done either guided or self-guided.

  • Norfolk: Broads & Coast Online Road Trip Travel Guide: Norfolk has many beautiful places to visit and this online guide will give you an idea of places to visit starting in Norwich. It’s a great introduction to the coastal towns and villages too.
  • Cambridge is around 90 minutes drive from Norwich. If you don’t mind the slightly longer round trip then the historical city has plenty to see and do and of course is packed with history! We personally love the chauffeured punting tour and the Cambridge University Walking Tour by Alumni™ & Kings College.

Where to Eat in Norwich

Norwich has a huge variety of places to drink and dine in and you most definitely will be spoilt for choice. From the street food at the market to gastro pubs, casual spots as well as many fine dining establishments. If you’re vegetarian, like us then we have you covered in our guide, Vegetarian places to dine in Norfolk which also includes some Norwich spots.

They take their food and drink very seriously in Norwich. Legend has it that Norwich possesses 365 pubs – one for each day of the year – along with 52 churches – so you can repent in a different one every Sunday. If that’s true it equates to one for every 584 residents.

Here are our top picks for where to eat & drink in Norwich, where there are great vegetarian-friendly options.

Breakfast

  • The Ivy: Relaxed choice with a fanciful arty vibe offering a great weekend brunch with boozy options for that weekend feel.
Bejal wearing a read and white dress eating a vegetarian breakfast at Frank's Bar al Fresco. There is a grey door behind bejal and the chairs are a turquoise colour.

Coffee & Sweet Treats

  • Cupcake & Co: Cupcake & Co offer celebration cakes, cupcakes, brownie stacks and wedding cakes which taste fantastic and are visually stunning.
  • Bread Source: independent, artisan bakery specialising in simple, honest produce. The ideal spot for coffee and delicious.

Lunch

  • Logan’s Sandwich Bar:This is a family-run cafe serving both brunch & lunch with a great selection of freshly made sandwiches, jackets, salads, soups, and more.

Afternoon Tea

  • The Maids Head Hotel: Tombland: Traditional afternoon tea in Norwich’s historic hotel.
  • The Assembly House: A finalist in the Best Afternoon Tea, this is as exquisite as tea, cake and savouries can get enjoyed in the stunning surroundings of a Georgian Townhouse.

Dinner

  • The Wildebeest: Fine dining with striking rustic-chic decor and an elegant terrace, plus an inventive British menu. 2 x AA Rosettes. Located a little out of Norwich in the village of Stoke Holy Cross.
  • Benedicts: A compact brasserie, serving locally sourced fresh food with a string of awards including 3 x AA rosettes and a Michelin Star. Recommended for a special occasion!

A table and 2 black leather studded chairs at the Wildbeest restaurant in Norwich. There is a wood surround Victorian replica fireplace in the background.

Drinks

  • The English Distillery: St Georges Distillery, home of The English Whisky Company, is the first distillery in England in over 100 years, and part of Norfolk’s heritage.
  • Gyre & Gimble Bar: A stylish independent bar that’s relatively new to the Norwich scene. Enjoy amazing locally-produced spirits, stylish décor, and a creative drinks.

Best of Norwich: Things to do in Two Days FAQS

Is Norwich worth visiting?

If you love medieval architecture, history, river side walks, mooching around markets, boutique hotels, cafes, or are a bit of a foodie, Norwich is perfect for you. It is also the capital of Norfolk so it can be visited en route to one of the many places along the Norfolk coast.

What is the parking like in Norwich city centre?

There are plenty of car parks as well as pay and display parking options in the centre. If you’re visiting on a Sunday it’s possible to find some on-street parking which is not free.

How long is ideal to stay in Norwich?

if you can spare the time, an overnight trip or 2 nights maximum is perfect to see the museums in leisurely and slower fashion. It’s the perfect weekend getaway,

Can we do all of the above in one day?

No, the above things to do are just an idea of things that you can use to craft your own itinerary depending on your interest. Museums can easily take a little longer and going to the Sainsbury’s Visual Arts centre can take a while to.

Norwich Guide Round-Up

We think, Norwich is a captivating destination where medieval charm meets modern comfort, offering visitors a unique blend of history and contemporary style. Its boutique hotels and vibrant dining scene provide the perfect base for exploring the city’s cobbled streets, cathedrals, and hidden gems. With scenic nature walks along the River Wensum, Norwich beautifully balances cultural richness with tranquil outdoor experiences, making it a must-visit city. We’d say, if Norwich isn’t on your UK visit list, get it on there quick, it’s another gem that surprised us and it really is worth a visit!

Bejal wearing a red and white dress and doing a stride by outside the Cathedral Quarter houses.  The house has a navy blue Regency style door adn there is ivy growing on the walls with a rose bush to the right.

Read Norfolk Related Articles Next:

  • A Guide to Exploring the best of Norfolk
  • The Best Places to Dine in Norfolk
  • Stay in a Quirky Shepherd’s Hut at Willowfen Retreat, Norfolk

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Bejal

I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! My travel style places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.

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  • Scott McGlashan
    22nd August 2021

    What a fantastic blog post, so informative and a really good guide. A great bunch of hotels too that I now have my eye on 🙂

    Reply
    • Bejal
      Scott McGlashan
      22nd August 2021

      Thankyou Scott, I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed reading this. Oh yes I can see you staying at Assembly Rooms for sure!

      Reply
  • louise
    22nd August 2021

    So much beauty in one place! Loving the look of Princes for an overnight stay. I love everything medieval (except from their mindset perhaps haha)
    Louise x

    Reply
    • Bejal
      louise
      23rd August 2021

      Such a beautiful city Louise adn I never realised there was just so much to do and see. The shopping also is very good with so many independent boutiques and stores.

      Reply
  • Rubina
    22nd August 2021

    What a wonderful blog post, covering all angles! A great itinerary with a beautiful selection of hotels, restaurants historic sites & activities to choose from. Awesome pics now I really want to visit ????

    Reply
    • Bejal
      Rubina
      23rd August 2021

      Thankyou Rubina for dropping by. I’d definitely recommend. So much to do see and experience and right on our doorstep!

      Reply
  • Camilla
    22nd August 2021

    What a great selection of places to stay and dine. So beautiful rooms and I would love to visit Norwich cathedral, what a building. Very informative ????????????

    Reply
    • Bejal
      Camilla
      23rd August 2021

      Thankyou Camilla. Norwich cathedral is simply stunning in every way. A definite must and top site to visit if you’re ever there.

      Reply

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I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! I places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.

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