by Katie Thompson
A day out in Norwich is what you make it- packed with history, immersed in nature or ready to shop ‘til you drop.
And if you’re looking for a little bit of everything, you can follow our tried and tested itinerary for a summer’s day in Norwich and you won’t be disappointed. This is a day of relaxed sightseeing, wine, lunch, a bit of shopping, and finishing with drinks on a sunny roof terrace!
10am: Start your day at Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery to experience their recently re-opened medieval Keep (from 7 August). You’ll be one of the first in 5 years, and one in 900 to access all 5 floors!
If you’re here before 7 August, start your day at Plantation Garden– a secret garden and place of beauty and tranquillity, popping next door to The Cathedral of St John the Baptist for incredible architecture with a slice of cake.
12am: On Bethel Street, discover a Victorian skating rink which is now a shop for South Asian products, art and furniture as well as a museum.
1pm: Jarrolds department store is for wine and charcuterie boards in their food hall.
2.30pm: Calling all shoppers. Take your time around Jarrolds and then onto the Royal Arcade.
5pm: Wander over to Gonzo’s Tea Room for late afternoon drinks on their sunny roof terrace. The perfect end to a perfect day.
As the most accessible castle in the UK, Norwich Castle really is for everyone to enjoy
Begin your day by time travelling 900 years. Yes, that’s right. After 5 years, Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery re-opens their medieval Keep from 7 August! We suggest starting your day from the battlements. Be one of the first to admire the spectacular views of Norwich, take a seat on the viewing platform and absorb the history of the City of Stories.
Over 5 accessible levels, where original medieval floors and fully furnished rooms have been meticulously reinstated, there are new interactive experiences and multisensory elements to enjoy. Plus, you’ll get the chance to visit the Castle’s wonderful Gallery of Medieval Life, created in partnership with the British Museum (the only one of its kind outside London), showcasing nearly 1,000 medieval artefacts and treasures of international importance!
After taking it all in, head west via the Royal Arcade and along Bethel Street. This is where you’ll find the South Asia Collection. This museum is free to enter and well worth a look around- we suggest an hour to take it all in. Immerse yourself in displays of South Asian arts and crafts, before browsing the beautiful range of handmade rugs, soft furnishings, clothing and gifts in their Country and Eastern shop!
Charcuterie, wine and shopping? Jarrolds is a department store for every taste
From here, cut across the top of Norwich Market, past City Hall and Norwich Guildhall to Jarrolds. Our flagship independent department store is a must for locals and visitors alike. Start by heading downstairs to their food hall for a glass of wine and charcuterie board. Snack on local cheeses and produce from the deli- where you can buy some to take home for later!
Time for a bit of shopping! While you’re here, it would be rude not to look around! And with 5 floors, it’s safe to say there’s something for everyone. Take your time and make your way up to the top floor, perusing beauty, menswear, womenswear, homeware, stationery and an exciting toy department for the little ones.
Did you know that Jarrolds was designed by local architect George Skipper? Next, wander over to another one of his architectural gems via Gentleman’s Walk- the Royal Arcade. The Royal Arcade was designed in the Art Nouveau style- think colourful tiles, a lovely glass ceiling and big shop windows to entice you in.
This is the place to pick up special gifts and treat yourself! There’s funky homeware, conscious cosmetics, plants, vintage-inspired fashion, art, shoes and handcrafted jewellery. We suggest taking home a box of macarons too (you’ll thanks us later).
Relax with rooftop drinks at Gonzo’s
End the day on a high- quite literally! Amble along Castle Street and to the end of London Street where you’ll encounter Gonzo’s Tea Room. Head upstairs to their rooftop for late afternoon drinks in the golden sun. Maybe it’s a crisp glass of wine, a refreshing pint or a fruity cocktail. (And if you’re hungry, indulge in one of Gonzo’s popular burgers- no food envy here!) Savour your last moments of a summer’s day in Norwich under twinkling fairy lights and twilight sky.
