Things To Do
in Norwich

Norwich is a historic city located in the East of England, known for its impressive medieval architecture and charming cobbled streets. The city is home to stunning landmarks such as Norwich Cathedral and Norwich Castle, which offer visitors a glimpse into its rich heritage. Norwich is also a cultural hub, with a thriving arts and music scene, as well as a variety of museums and galleries to explore.

Additionally, the city boasts beautiful green spaces such as the Norfolk Broads and the Norwich Riverside Walk, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Norwich
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Norwich Castle, exploring its fascinating history and stunning architecture. Don't forget to stroll through the castle grounds for great views of the city.

afternoon
:

Head to the Norwich Market for lunch and enjoy a variety of local foods. Afterward, explore the vibrant shops and stalls that make this market a local favorite.

evening
:

End your day with a relaxing walk along the River Wensum. Find a cozy pub for dinner and soak in the local atmosphere.

day 2
Cultural Discoveries
morning
:

Visit the Norwich Cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture. Participate in a guided tour to learn about its rich history.

afternoon
:

Explore the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, admiring its impressive collection of modern art. Enjoy lunch at the café within the centre before continuing your explorations.

evening
:

Catch a performance at the Norwich Playhouse or the Theatre Royal. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant to complete your cultural experience.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and culture with a variety of historical sites and museums.
  • Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
  • Beautiful parks and green spaces, providing plenty of recreational opportunities.
  • Relatively affordable housing compared to larger UK cities.
  • Good educational institutions, including universities and colleges.
  • Vibrant arts scene with festivals, galleries, and theaters.
  • Well-connected transport links, including trains to London and nearby cities.
  • Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger urban areas.
  • Public transport options can be less extensive than in bigger cities.
  • Weather can be quite gloomy with frequent rain.
  • Nightlife and entertainment options may not be as diverse as in larger cities.
  • Some areas may face issues with roads and infrastructure.
  • Limited shopping options compared to metropolitan areas.
  • Educational options may be limited for certain specialized fields.

Best Activities in Norwich

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Whitlingham Country Park

Offers a range of outdoor activities including walking, cycling, bird watching, and water sports such as canoeing and sailing.

Eaton Park

One of Norwich's most popular parks with various outdoor activities including tennis courts, a boating lake, and large open spaces for picnics and sports.

Norwich Riverside Walk

A scenic walk along the River Wensum offering beautiful views and a refreshing outdoor experience in the heart of Norwich.

Tours

Uncover the best of Norwich with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Norwich

Visit one of these nice places.

Norwich Cathedral

Offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape

Norwich Castle

Provides panoramic views of the city and its historic buildings

Riverside Walk

Scenic pathway along the River Wensum with picturesque photo opportunities

Mousehold Heath

Elevated area overlooking Norwich with great views for photography

Food in Norwich

Norwich, United Kingdom, offers a diverse culinary experience with influences from traditional British, European, and international cuisines. The city is known for its thriving food scene, vibrant food markets, and a wide range of restaurants and cafes suitable for all tastes.

Norwich Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Norfolk Black Turkey

A specialty during the holiday season, tender and succulent Norfolk Black Turkey can be found at local butchers and holiday food fairs.

Must-Try!

Cromer Crab

Renowned for its sweet, delicate flavor, Cromer Crab is best enjoyed in seafood restaurants along the Norfolk coast, including in Norwich.

Norfolk Lamb

Savor the rich and tender Norfolk Lamb, often found on the menus of traditional English pubs and fine dining establishments in the area.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Norwich better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Norwich Market

One of the largest and oldest outdoor markets in the country, Norwich Market is a vibrant hub of street food stalls, offering diverse cuisines from around the world.

The Feast on the Street

This popular street food event, held regularly in the city center, showcases a wide variety of international street food, providing an opportunity to taste different global flavors.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as an oceanic climate (Köppen climate classification Cfb), characterized by mild temperatures and relatively high humidity throughout the year. Winters are generally cool, with average low temperatures around 1°C to 3°C (34°F to 37°F), while summers tend to be mild to warm, with average high temperatures ranging from 19°C to 22°C (66°F to 72°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed over the year, with no particularly dry season, although late autumn and winter may experience slightly higher precipitation. The area enjoys a fair amount of sunshine, especially during the summer months, although cloudy and overcast conditions are also common. Due to its coastal proximity, the climate is influenced by Atlantic weather systems, meaning that temperatures are moderated compared to more inland areas. Frost can occur in winter, particularly at night, and occasional snowfall may happen, though it is usually light and not persistent. Overall, the climate is conducive to a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, with the changing seasons offering distinct experiences in terms of weather and landscape.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Norwich, it's important to be mindful of personal space and not to stand too close to others, especially during conversations or in public places.

Politeness and courtesy

British culture values politeness and courteous behavior. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is important in interactions, and being polite is highly regarded.

Respect for traditions and heritage

Norwich has a rich historical and cultural heritage. It's important to show respect for traditions, historical sites, and local customs.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Norwich with these exclusive activities.

Safety

The safety situation in Norwich typically reflects broader trends seen in many urban areas in the UK. Generally, it is considered a relatively safe city, particularly for a city of its size. However, like any urban environment, it has areas that may experience higher crime rates, particularly in specific neighborhoods or during certain times. The crime types can vary, with common concerns including anti-social behavior, theft, and occasionally violent crime. Local authorities, including the police, regularly engage with the community to address safety issues and enhance public awareness. Norwich benefits from a proactive approach to community safety, with initiatives aimed at preventing crime and promoting safe public spaces. The presence of students, as the city houses a significant student population, can influence the social dynamics and safety strategies in the area. Public transport is generally safe, and while petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, violent crime is less prevalent compared to larger cities. Overall, maintaining situational awareness and following local advice can help residents and visitors navigate the city safely. Visitors to the city are encouraged to stay in well-lit areas at night, remain aware of their surroundings, and take standard precautions to ensure their safety. Local resources, such as community policing efforts and public hotlines, are in place to assist in keeping the community safe.

Tipping in Norwich

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Norwich, United Kingdom, tipping is not mandatory but is generally practiced as a gesture of appreciation for good service. It is common to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, especially if the service was exceptional. Tipping may also be done for other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff.

Payment

Payment in Norwich, United Kingdom, is mostly done using credit or debit cards, although cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payment methods are popular, and mobile payment apps are increasingly being used. It is important to note that some smaller establishments may only accept cash, so it's always a good idea to have some on hand.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Norwich.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a lovely time to visit Norwich with blossoming flowers, mild temperatures, and the start of outdoor events and festivals.

Summer

Summer is vibrant in Norwich with long daylight hours, bustling outdoor markets, and various cultural events and music festivals.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage in and around Norwich, along with harvest festivals, and a cozy atmosphere in the city.

Winter

Winter brings a magical atmosphere to Norwich, with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and the chance to experience the city in a different light.

Norwich at Night

Nightlife in Norwich offers a vibrant and diverse array of activities for residents and visitors alike. The city is well-known for its lively pub culture, with many traditional and modern pubs scattered throughout the area. These establishments often feature live music, quiz nights, and a wide selection of local ales and craft beers. For those who prefer a more club-oriented scene, Norwich has several nightclubs that cater to various music tastes, from mainstream pop and dance to more niche genres like techno and drum and bass. These clubs often host events with renowned DJs and themed nights that keep the dance floors busy. Norwich also boasts a burgeoning live music scene, with venues like the Norwich Arts Centre and The Waterfront hosting a variety of concerts, from up-and-coming local bands to established artists. Theatre enthusiasts can enjoy performances at the Norwich Theatre Royal and the Maddermarket Theatre, which offer a range of shows, including plays, musicals, and comedy acts. For a more relaxed evening, many people opt to visit the city’s wine bars and cocktail lounges, where expert mixologists craft creative drinks in a sophisticated atmosphere. Some of these venues also offer tapas and other small plates, making them perfect spots for a leisurely evening out. Additionally, Norwich has a selection of late-night cafes and eateries that cater to night owls, ensuring that there's always something to eat no matter the hour. Whether you're looking for a bustling club, a cozy pub, or a cultural experience, Norwich's nightlife has something to offer everyone.

Hiking in Norwich

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Whitlingham Country Park

A beautiful park with lakes, woodlands, and extensive trails that offer a variety of walking routes suitable for all abilities.

Mousehold Heath

A large public open space with heathland and woodland, featuring a range of trails and viewpoints over the city.

Earlham Park

A tranquil park that provides several pathways winding through gardens and by the river, ideal for leisurely hikes.

Thetford Forest

Located a bit further from Norwich, this extensive forest offers numerous trails for hiking and cycling amid beautiful pine trees.

Blickling Estate

A National Trust property with landscaped gardens and trails, perfect for a longer hike in a historical setting.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Norwich through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Norwich by plane.

London Stansted Airport (STN)

Located approximately 60 miles south of Norwich, it serves as a major hub for low-cost carriers.

London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

Situated about 110 miles southwest of Norwich, it is one of London's major airports.

London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

Approximately 120 miles southwest of Norwich, it is one of the world's busiest international airports.

Birmingham Airport (BHX)

Located about 90 miles west of Norwich, it is the seventh busiest airport in the UK.

East Midlands Airport (EMA)

Situated around 110 miles northwest of Norwich, it is a base for several low-cost airlines.

Walkability

The city features a compact layout characterized by pedestrian-friendly streets, a network of walking paths, and numerous amenities within close proximity. Historical areas are particularly accessible, with cobbled streets and limited vehicle access enhancing the pedestrian experience. Public transportation options complement walkability, allowing for easy movement in and out of the city. Key landmarks, parks, and shopping districts are situated within short walking distances, making it convenient for residents and visitors alike to explore on foot. The city also places a strong emphasis on sustainable transport, encouraging walking and cycling as viable alternatives to driving. Green spaces, such as parks and gardens, are integrated into the urban landscape, providing pleasant environments for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities. Overall, the design and infrastructure of the area support a walkable lifestyle, fostering community interaction and encouraging physical activity.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White British

The majority ethnic group in Norwich, encompassing individuals who identify as having a British ancestry.

Other White

This group includes people from other European countries and migrants who identify as White.

Asian or Asian British

Individuals from South Asian, East Asian, and Southeast Asian backgrounds, including Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian heritages.

Black, African, Caribbean or Black British

This demographic includes individuals from African and Caribbean backgrounds.

Mixed or Multiple Ethnic Groups

People who identify as having mixed ethnic backgrounds, such as White and Black Caribbean or White and Asian.

Other Ethnic Groups

Includes any individuals who belong to ethnic groups not specifically categorized above, such as those from Middle Eastern backgrounds.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

One of the most popular sports in Norwich, with Norwich City Football Club being a prominent team in the English Football League.

Cricket

Cricket has a strong following in Norwich, with local clubs and leagues contributing to its popularity.

Rugby

Rugby is played at both amateur and professional levels, with clubs like Norwich Rugby Club attracting many participants and fans.

Athletics

Athletics is a popular sport in Norwich, supported by local clubs and events held throughout the year.

Cycling

With many scenic routes, cycling is a favored pastime for both leisure and competitive participants in and around Norwich.

Darts

Darts has a significant presence in social clubs and pubs, contributing to its popularity among locals.

Traffic

The traffic in this city is often characterized by a mix of local and through traffic, given its historical layout and the surrounding rural areas. Narrow streets and ancient road patterns can lead to congestion, especially during peak hours. The city center tends to experience significant delays, particularly around shopping areas and major intersections. Parking can be challenging, with limited spaces and various restrictions in place. Public transportation, including buses and trains, plays an essential role in mitigating some traffic issues, providing alternatives for commuters and visitors. In recent years, initiatives to promote cycling and walking have also been implemented to reduce car dependency and enhance urban mobility. Overall, while traffic can be problematic at times, the city is actively working on solutions to improve movement through its historic and vibrant landscape.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Norwich.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Norwich is home to numerous vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries, including Tofurei, which offers a variety of plant-based products, and Wild Thyme, serving delectable vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten-free dietary requirements will find accommodating menus at many restaurants, such as The Tipsy Vegan, known for its gluten-free comfort food, and The River Kitchen, offering an array of gluten-free options.

Healthcare

In this city, healthcare services are provided through a mix of public and private systems, with the National Health Service (NHS) being the primary provider of health services. Local residents have access to several hospitals, including the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, which is a major teaching hospital that offers a wide range of services and specialties. Primary care is typically delivered through general practitioners (GPs), who serve as the first point of contact for patients. There are numerous GP surgeries and clinics throughout the area, ensuring that residents have access to basic medical care, vaccinations, and health screenings. Specialist services are also available, with various clinics and practices focusing on specific health issues. The healthcare system places a strong emphasis on community health services, mental health support, and preventive care. Public health initiatives in the region target various health concerns, aiming to improve overall community well-being. These initiatives include programs for smoking cessation, obesity prevention, and mental health awareness. Furthermore, there are private healthcare options for those who prefer to bypass the NHS waiting times or seek specific treatments. These facilities complement the public healthcare landscape, offering services like private consultations, elective surgeries, and specialist treatments. Overall, the healthcare system in this city aims to provide comprehensive and accessible health services to its diverse population, balancing public and private options to meet the needs of its residents.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2024 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide