How to Spend 72 Hours in Norwich
3 February 2026
72 Hours in Norwich
Day One
Day Two
Day Three
72 Hours in Norwich
(2 Nights in Norwich)
by Katie Thompson
In spring, our fine city is a burst of colour and activity, welcoming you with open arms as wide as the blue skies above. From the vivid green of trees’ first leaves to fragrant lilac wisteria and streets punctuated with blush blossom, scattering our paths and cobbles with pastel petals.
When you’ve got 2 nights and 3 days to spend in the City of Stories, where do you start? From fascinating attractions to must-see architecture, undeniably tasty food and our best independent shops, there’s something for you.
So, shake off the winter blues, and wake up to fresh mornings with anticipation and a spring in your step. Let the soft breeze envelop you, and the first throes of warm sunshine invigorate your passion for getting out exploring our wonderful city.
Here’s your hand-picked guide to 72 hours in Norwich!
A stay at The Assembly House is perfectly located and luxurious!
Where to Stay
//Stay: The Assembly House, 2 adults from £170 per night including breakfast.
The Assembly House combines Georgian elegance with modern comforts. Think grand four-poster beds and roll-top baths, an abundance of colourful soft furnishings and sleek walk-in showers. All a stone’s throw from the centre, where Norwich’s bustling heart awaits you.
And with this luxury B&B comes an even more luxurious wake up call. Included in your stay is a freshly cooked breakfast, including classics like eggs benedict and full English, alongside a continental spread of seasonal fruit and pastries.
Day One
Norwich Castle/ Norwich Lanes/ Yalm
head up to Norwich Castle’s battlements for breathtaking panoramic views
//See & Do: Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Monday – Sunday.
//Eat & Drink: Logan’s, Monday – Saturday; Yalm, Tuesday – Sunday; Sir Toby’s Beers, Monday – Sunday.
//Shop: Atwin, Monday – Sunday; Bowhill & Elliott, Monday – Saturday; Jarrolds, Monday – Sunday.
Once you’ve dropped your bags off, head straight to Norwich Castle past our modern glass-fronted Forum and medieval marketplace (5 minutes’ walk). This iconic Norman attraction is fully accessible and a must-visit after reopening last year following a £27.5m redevelopment (adults from £15.30, children from £13.05 when you book in advance online).
From the modern light-filled atrium, discover reinstated rooms and interactive activities (you’re never too old for dressing up!) and immerse yourself into life in a medieval royal palace. If you time it right, you’ll be treated to an incredible projection of the castle’s origins after the Norman Conquest.
Elsewhere, the Gallery of Medieval Life (in partnership with the British Museum) is aglow with nearly 1000 artefacts, from coins to armour, whilst the battlements, will greet you with 360-degree views of the city below. Take in the endless skies that surround you. (And that’s not all. You really can spend hours here- the former Victorian prison houses a myriad of displays, from contemporary and fine art to Roman, Egyptian and natural history!)
The Lanes is lined with independents of every variety- make sure to pop in and explore
Feeling peckish? We suggest lunch at Logan’s (3 minutes’ walk). Tucked away in the bustle of the Norwich Lanes, Logan’s is one of the oldest sandwich shops in the city- and for good reason. With an array of tempting choices, that includes everything from BBQ chicken to their mushroom club, all tastes are catered for. Plus, you can eat in or take away to soak up mild spring days.
Now you’re in the heart of Norwich’s independent scene, you simply have to explore everything on offer! Each one is a treasure trove of curated vintage, fashion, gifts, books and more. Our top picks include Atwin, a sustainably led lifestyle store that celebrates local creatives and handcrafted fashion, beauty and homeware, and Bowhill & Elliott, the only shoemakers in the UK to still make out the back and sell out front. Their chic velvet slippers are truly unique and browsing this store is both luxurious and completely welcoming.
And you can’t forget Jarrolds. Our independent department store houses 5 floors and over 50 departments of fashion, food, stationery and more! Browse at your leisure and be sure to head downstairs to their food hall- each shelf brims with local produce. Think Norfolk spirits, wine and beer, confectionary, preserves, coffee and savoury treats! (It’s the perfect excuse for a souvenir!)
There’s so much to choose from at Yalm, so why not try something from every kitchen?
Evening
After all that exploring, you’ll deserve a delicious reward. At Yalm, there are mouthwatering dishes for even the most indecisive diner. This buzzing food hall is popular with locals thanks to its 8 kitchens and array of worldwide cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a stone baked pizza, smoky grill, zingy fish tacos or steaming bowl of ramen, all you have to do is scan the QR code and wait in anticipation for it to arrive!
If you don’t want your evening to end just yet, head through our stunning Art Nouveau Royal Arcade to Norwich Market, where you’ll discover Sir Toby’s Beers. As the market’s only bar, this spot is perfect for a nightcap. Embrace those early spring nights with a glass of their signature cherry beer under the stars before a restful night’s sleep.
Day Two
Plantation Garden/ Norwich Market/ Afternoon Tea/ Bowling House
Discover The Plantation Garden and explore this beautiful spot at your own pace
//See & Do: Plantation Garden, Monday – Sunday; The Cathedral of St John the Baptist, Monday – Sunday; South Asia Collection, Monday – Saturday.
//Eat & Drink: Norwich Market, days and times vary for individual stalls, Monday – Sunday; Afternoon Tea at The Assembly House, Monday – Sunday; Bowling House, Tuesday – Sunday.
//Shop: Country & Eastern, Monday – Saturday.
Start your second day slow. Norwich is the only city in England in a national park (the Broads National Park, to be exact). And that means we’re a city filled with verdant green spaces. One of these is Plantation Garden (£2). Set back off Earlham Road, this Grade II listed oasis feels a world away from city life. A former chalk quarry, it’s now home to manicured lawns and blooming borders, a Victorian Gothic Fountain, Italianate terrace and woodland paths.
While you’re here, pay a visit to the Victorian Gothic Revival Cathedral of St John the Baptist (free) next door. Take your time exploring this grand building’s stained-glass windows, architecturally impressive arches and rare Frosterly marble (created from millions of tiny fossils). Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and enjoy a coffee on the patio of their Garden Cafe. This hidden green space is a flower-filled suntrap come spring!
The South Asia Collection is a hidden gem (with a lovely shop too!)
From here, stroll across the footbridge on Grapes Hill and along Bethel Street (10 minutes’ walk). Along the way, breathe in the fresh scent of wisteria from St Giles on the Hill church. When fully out, it’s a stunning sight.
If you have time, we suggest detouring to the South Asia Collection (free). This museum is packed with arts and crafts from India, Afghanistan, Indonesia and beyond. Admire the delicate craftsmanship of each display and take your own piece of it home from their Country & Eastern shop! This building was a former Victorian skating rink, so remember to look up at the breathtaking wooden ceiling before you leave!
Then pay a visit to Norwich Market. Stop for a light snack from its aromatic food stalls, whether you’re in the mood for a flaky sausage roll or sweet treat! And make sure to check out our Art Nouveau Royal Arcade nearby (opposite the market on Gentleman’s Walk). In spring, sunlight sparkles through the bright glass ceiling onto beautiful tiles and independent stores’ fun window displays. Whether you’re into fashion, beauty or interiors, why not have a browse? Then pop into Macarons and More– perfect for a gift for your loved ones or yourself- we suggest the buttery salted caramel!
For the main event, afternoon tea at The Assembly House (£32.50pp). Surrounded by Georgian splendour, you’ll be served with three incredible tiers of themed treats. Whether it’s a magical fairytale or seasonal selection, relish fluffy finger sandwiches (refillable, might we add) and moreish savouries, before an extra layer of cheese and fruit scones. Then, appreciate the patisserie. From delicate macarons to layered gateaux and indulgent mini shot glass desserts, they’re a real delight.
An evening at Bowling House is always full of fun, energy and entertainment
Evening
When the sun has set, make the most of your second evening in Norwich at Bowling House (12 minutes’ walk from your accommodation) for a night of cocktails, bowling and karaoke! This buzzing venue is a fantastic night out. Show off your skills on their retro bowling lanes before singing your heart out in their intimate karaoke booth- there are 80,000 songs to choose from! And if you need a boost, Bowling House’s sharing plates never go amiss. Feast on the likes of braised beef or bean chilli nachos and sip on a cocktail concoction in the cosy booths of their cool new dining space.
Or if you love a night out with live entertainment, we suggest checking out the music line-ups at Norwich Arts Centre or comedy and shows at Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich Playhouse and the Maddermarket Theatre, as well as the occasional adult show at Norwich Puppet Theatre too!
Day Three
Norwich Cathedral/ Benedicts
In spring, explore the charming surrounds of Cathedral Close
//See & Do: Norwich Cathedral, Monday – Sunday; Elm Hill.
//Eat & Drink: Benedicts, Wednesday – Sunday.
On your final day, stroll down to our characterful Cathedral Quarter. Make your way through Erpingham Gate, flanked by soft white blossom trees, where you’ll be greeted by the towering spire of our Romanesque Norwich Cathedral (free).
Once you head inside, we recommend exploring the beautiful monastic cloister (the largest in the country), where arches of sunshine stream through to these historic 900-year-old walls. Look up! Above you, carefully carved roof bosses decorate the vaulted walkways, leading you through to the cathedral’s nave. Find out more about them with a free 1-hour tour, which also divulges secrets of ancient graffiti, royal visitors and more.
Wander Cathedral Close while you’re here. It’s dotted with well-kept greens and cottages boasting traditional English flower gardens. The Close is also home to a secluded herb garden and Norwich’s Paddington bench. Why not stop for a photo?
End your stay with a fantastic lunch at Benedicts- you won’t forget it any time soon!
Amble through Tombland to Elm Hill, Norwich’s most complete medieval street. As you head up the cobbles, take note of characterful beams and charming buildings housing unique independents. Rest beneath Elm Hill’s iconic plane tree and take in this timeless view.
End your 3-day stay in the City of Stories on a high. Less than a 10-minute walk away, you’ll find Benedicts. This fine dining restaurant is owned by Chef Patron (and Norwich local) Richard Bainbridge and prides itself on fresh seasonal produce. So, treat yourself to their set lunch menu and take a seat alfresco (with a crisp glass of wine if you’re not driving!). With dishes like their signature Parker House bread and sherry mousse cracker, you’ll want to savour every bite!
And thanks to R.B Provisions, you can take away a flavour of your time here in Norwich and add a bit of flair to your own cooking! We love the spicy BBQ sauce- it’s a family recipe!
