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!
Try something different for breakfast at The Waffle House!
The City of Stories certainly isn’t short of delicious places to eat- whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, brunch or a flaky pastry!
One of our favourite spots is The Waffle House. Their unique menu pairs classic and exciting breakfast flavours- both sweet and savoury- with freshly made waffles (which can be made vegan and gluten free, too). If you’re feeling hungry, there’s the Big English or Halloumi & Hash Stack. And for a sweet tooth, you can tuck into blueberry, maple and pecan or spiced fruit and granola!
Or for different tastes, Yalm is a must-visit. Set in the beautiful Royal Arcade, this foodhall offers a range of kitchens and cuisines to choose from, including North African, Thai and Mexican. From their Rise & Dine menu (weekends from 10am), we recommend a breakfast pizza or breakfast burrito.
Paul Dickson is an engaging, knowledgeable and insightful tour guide
Norwich’s rich history spans 1000 years, so there’s a lot to take in in just 24 hours!
One of the best ways to learn about our medieval streets is with a walking tour. Norwich is a compact city, easily walkable, and will take you from cobbled roads to verdant riverside pathways to a bustling marketplace all in one day. With Paul Dickson tours (from £9pp), his ‘Norwich, An Introduction’ tour takes you from the 21st century Forum to our Norman cathedral. And if you’re familiar with the city, try a more specialised tour, such as ‘Shardlake’s Norwich’ or ‘The Great Market’.
Another great alternative is Norwich Castle (adults £8.20, children £6.90, open daily, 10am – 5pm)– one of the city’s most iconic sites. Here, there’s 900 years of history to discover. From stories of Boudicca’s rebellion and the Anglo-Saxons to the Norwich School of Artists and more!
What’s a visit to Norwich without street food from the market?
A visit to Norwich isn’t complete without street food from Norwich Market. You’ll find it hard to miss these thriving multi-coloured stalls- chances are you’ll smell them before you see them! With aromas from worldwide flavours to tempt you in, here you can 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 (try their famous cherry beer!) as well as for people watching!
And if you’re in the mood for a moreish lunch, Logan’s (in the Lanes on Swan Lane) made-to-order sandwiches, salads and jacket potatoes can be enjoyed to eat in or takeaway. When you visit, make sure to check out their daily specials!
The Norwich Lanes is the buzzing, independent heart of the city
You could say that 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 more exciting though, is what’s behind the shopfronts. From vintage fashion to trend-led menswear, long standing jewellers to carefully curated bookshops. 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 to coffee shops worth the queue, 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 Norwich’s past underneath its current street level- and with it, tales of our city’s people!
Brix and Bones is a mouthwatering culinary experience
With so many mouthwatering food and drinks options for dinner, 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 use of charcoal and wood-burning grill to create seasonal menus that combine worldwide influences with high quality Norfolk produce, all accompanied by a thoughtfully curated wine list (by the amazing Brian Sullivan). We recommend the smoked bone marrow fudge doughnut for a dish that’s really unforgettable.
And if you want a more relaxed dinner, but with equally delicious food, we suggest Saporita. For authentic, family-run Italian food, this is your port of call. Think freshly made pizzas and sharing boards, followed by a slice of Saporita’s special tiramisu or salame al cioccolato! And maybe some Limoncello?
End your evening with a drink on Norwich Playhouse Bar’s leafy terrace
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 Ribs of Beef pub on Fye Bridge, watch the sun glimmer on the rippling waters of the River Wensum on their waterside terrace or through big bay windows in 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 are looking for a bit more buzz and energy, Norwich has plenty of nightlife too! With friends? Try Mulligans. Crazy golf, anyone? While at Slice + Dice, you can try your hand at an exciting board game, cocktail (or milkshake) in hand. Then we have retro bowling and karaoke at Bowling House and it has a restaurant and bar. And to really make a night of it, check out Gonzos Two Room, a multi-level music and dance venue (and winner of BBC Radio 1’s Europe’s Best Dance Venue might we add) where you can dance until the sun comes up. They have a rooftop terrace too as part of Gonzo’s Tea Room.
The Assembly House’s rooms have interiors created with the guest in mind
After a day of exploring, there’s nothing more inviting than the call of a comfortable bed! And Norwich has some lovely city centre accommodation. (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!
Or in Tombland, Norwich’s historic centre, the Maids Head Hotel (2 adults with breakfast from £120 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!
