24 Hours in Norwich

24 Hours in Norwich

by Katie Thompson

When it comes to a city break in Norwich, you’ve made a very good choice. We may be biased, but with so many stunning sights to see, attractions to explore for every age, as well as tempting food and drink and indie stores to step into, this will be a trip to remember. 

With just 24 hours, you’ll want to make the most of it. Luckily for you, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re searching for hidden gems or iconic things to do, for first-timers or Norwich veterans. Take your time and enjoy a journey of discovery. Here’s our itinerary for a perfect day in the City of Stories!

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Breakfast 

Start the day on a high– whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, brunch or a flaky pastry! 

One of our favourite spots is The Waffle House (it’s a Norwich institution). Their unique menu pairs classic and exciting breakfast flavours with freshly made waffles (including vegan and gluten free). Take their Halloumi & Hash Stack. Or for a sweet tooth, there’s spiced fruit and granola! (Our pick, however, is always chocolate mousse and honeycomb!)

If you’ve all got different tastes, Yalm is a must-visit. Set in the beautiful Royal Arcade, this foodhall offers a range of kitchens to choose from, including Mediterranean, Thai and Mexican. From their Rise & Dine menu (weekends from 10am), we recommend a breakfast pizza or breakfast burrito. 

Morning Exploring 

Norwich’s rich history spans 1000 years, so there’s a lot to take in in one day!  

One of the best ways to learn about our medieval streets is with a walking tour. Norwich is a compact city, taking you from cobbles to riverside pathways to bustling marketplace. With Paul Dickson as your guide, you’ll traverse Norman stories and modern sights with his ‘Norwich, an Introduction Tour (90 minutes, £9pp). (If you’re familiar with the city, try ‘Shardlake’s Norwich’ or ‘The Great Market’.) Elsewhere, opt for Norwich Free Walking Tours. Guide Tom will clue you up on all the best sights, stories and favourite local spots (2 hours, pay what you think the tour was worth)!

Another great alternative is Norwich Castle (prebook prices: adults £15.30, children £13.05 open daily, 10am – 5pm)– one of the city’s icons and now the UK’s most accessible castle. Immerse yourself in life in its medieval Keep- take a seat on the throne, discover its origins and soak in sky high views from the battlements, before discovering displays on Boudicca’s rebellion, the Norwich School of Artists and contemporary art exhibitions!

Lunch 

Tummy rumbling yet? A visit isn’t complete without street food from Norwich Market! Let your senses guide you through our buzzing multi-coloured stalls. With a world of flavours to tempt you, munch on tacos, chillies, bao buns, churros, falafel, noodles, curries and more.

While you’re here, why not stop by Sir Toby’s Beers? This craft beer and bottle shop has its own bar- the perfect spot to try a new beer (we suggest their famous cherry beer!) as well as people watching!

And if you’re in the mood for a moreish lunch, Logans (in the Lanes on Swan Lane) made-to-order sandwiches, salads and jacket potatoes can be enjoyed to eat in or takeaway (check out their daily specials!), whilst Grosvenor Fish Bar’s fish and chips are award-winning and the choice of many Norwich natives!

An Afternoon of Discovery 

The Norwich Lanes is the heart of the city’s independent scene. It’s a warren of meandering streets lined with charming shopfronts, punctuated by green spaces and historical architecture.  

What’s even more exciting is what’s inside! From vintage in  a church to conscious fashion at Atwin and handmade shoes at Bowhill & Elliott, long standing jewellers Dipples to considered bookshops like The Book Hive– not to mention our flagship department store Jarrolds. This is a place for both the most passionate shopper and those who like to see where their wanderings take them. As you explore, take note of the Lanes many eateries- from Michelin-guide restaurants (hello Benedicts) to coffee shops worth the queue (we like Strangers and Alchemista), there’s something for every visitor- much like the rest of the city!

Or to continue your adventure of discovery, opt for a Hidden Street Tour with The Shoebox Experiences (adults £16.50, children £8.50). Guided by a knowledgeable storyteller, you’ll uncover the Norwich that lies beneath your feet (and Castle Meadow) and the people that lived there!

Dinner 

With so many mouthwatering eateries, surely your first question is ‘where to choose’?  

Brix & Bones is an intimate dining experience noted by the Good Food Guide. They’re known for their skill with open fire cooking to create seasonal menus that combine worldwide influences and high-quality Norfolk produce, all accompanied by an expertly paired wine list (by the amazing Brian Sullivan). A dish that’s unforgettable? The smoked bone marrow fudge doughnut!

And if you want a more relaxed dinner, but with equally delicious food, we suggest Saporita. This is a must-visit for authentic, family-run Italian dishes. Think freshly made pizza, panzerroti and sharing boards, followed by a slice of Saporita’s special tiramisu or salame al cioccolato! And maybe some Limoncello? And nearby is the Tipsy Anchor. One of the smallest bars in Norwich, here you can pause with a local gin and creative gin cocktail courtesy of Bullards. 

Take the Evening Slow 

Make the most of your evening with a riverside drink- whether it’s a refreshing pint, crisp glass of wine or rich hot chocolate.  At the Red Lion Bishopgate, watch the sun glimmer on the rippling River Wensum from their waterside patio or the characterful Cathedral Quarter from their cosy interior. Or try Norwich Playhouse Bar on St Georges. Their leafy green terrace glows with colourful fairy lights, while their speak-easy style bar is a snug spot for cooler weather.  

But if you‘re looking for a bit more energy, Norwich has plenty of nightlife too! Crazy golf, anyone? Gather your friends at Mulligans. At City Greens Golf, test your skills on their exciting simulators, while at Slice + Dice, bring out the board games, cocktail (or milkshake) in hand. Then there’s retro bowling and karaoke at Bowling House. And to really make a night of it, check out Gonzos Two Room, a 300-capacity, multi-level music and dance venue (voted BBC Radio 1’s Europe’s Best Dance Venue 2025) where you can dance until the sun comes up. They have a rooftop terrace too as part of Gonzo’s Tea Room. 

Stay 

After a day of exploring, there’s nothing more inviting than the call of a comfortable bed just a few steps away! (Check out our Stay page for more!) 

On Theatre Street, Grade-I listed The Assembly House offers gorgeous rooms that marry Georgian character with plush interiors (2 adults with breakfast from £170 per night). Think indulgent king size beds, walk-in showers, your own living area and a mouthwatering breakfast!

Whilst 38 St Giles is a luxury boutique retreat in the Lanes, with stylish and cosy rooms (not to mention homemade brownies on arrival!)- it’s full of warmth. Expect characterful features elevated by the likes of free-standing copper baths, rich upholsteries and modern bathrooms (2 adults from £133 per night).

Or in Tombland, the Maids Head Hotel (2 adults with breakfast from £179 per night)– the oldest place of hospitality in the country- has generous contemporary rooms, four-poster beds and traditional exposed beams. Not to mention a complimentary ride in their vintage Bentley for guests!