by Katie Thompson
Whether you’ve a long list or only a few people to shop for, we all want to give that perfect, cannot-be-topped Christmas present. And here in Norwich, we’ve got a fantastic selection of shops, gift ideas and experiences to suit all manner of interests and ages. (Not to mention budgets!)
We’re here to make this a stress-free season and free up more time to make memories, indulge in good food and spend time on yourself. So, while you’re at it, why not add a little something for yourself to the basket? Go on, you know you want to. It is Christmas, after all.
Here’s our guide to Norwich’s best Christmas gifts!
Norwich offers a fantastic range of tours- give them a gift to look forward to
//Under £10: Paul Dickson & Norwich Story Walks tours; Labyrinth voucher.
//Under £20: Castle Quarter experiences; Norwich Ghost Walks & The Shoebox Experiences tours; Court De Padel session; The Lions’ Den sauna session.
//Under £35: Norwich Theatre gift card; Cheryl Cade & Go Quest Adventures tours.
If you’re not sure what to gift, an experience is a great option. They’re exciting, exhilarating and make plenty of memories. For starters, a Norwich Theatre gift card covers all their sites and shows- from comedy to dance, musicals and more.
When in Norwich, a tour is a must. With Paul Dickson, you’ll get to know Norwich’s history in detail- from our marketplace to the city’s darker side (from £9), while Norwich Story Walks immerses you into our weird and whimsical secrets- some even locals don’t know (£10), and Cheryl Cade invites you to taste a flavour of our local beer, gin, cheese and sausage rolls (from £26)! There’s Norwich Ghost Walks for spooky stories along our riverside walk and historic Elm Hill (£12) and The Shoebox Experiences for even more of our rich history- including pubs, Marble Hall and, of course, our hidden underground street (£16.50). And if you like something more interactive, then we suggest Go Quest Adventures, which will take you across the city as you solve intriguing puzzles (£28.95 for up to 5 people).
For those who love friendly competition, head to Castle Quarter, where you’ll find a whole host of exciting leisure activities. Think vouchers for escape rooms and a retro arcade, bowling, darts and cinema.
And for the little ones, there’s Labyrinth (from £10). Here, what they spend their voucher on is up to them- be it laser tag, make-a-bear or a visit to the play cafe!
A session at Court De Padel is ideal for adrenaline junkies- they’ll soon be hooked, while a treetop Go Ape adventure is a must for thrill seekers and the outdoorsy (£36.95). And when they want to unwind, treat your loved ones to a rejuvenating sauna session at The Lions’ Den (from £12.50).
With a beautiful selection of fashion, lifestyle and accessories, Atwin is a must for the stylish people on your list
//Under £20: Chantry Place; John Lewis.
//Under £35: Atwin; Dipples; Loake.
Norwich is home to many an independent, so a handcrafted gift from a local creative not only supports Norfolk businesses but is also one-of-a-kind!
Atwin is a beautifully curated lifestyle and womenswear store which champions local makers and sustainably made pieces. While their handcrafted garments are the perfect treat for any fashion lover, Atwin sells a wonderful selection of handmade jewellery (we love Studio Adorn’s earrings) and natural local beauty, perfumes and self-care products. Plus, with accessories including scrunchies, totes, and socks, those stockings will soon be filled!
For men, Loake offer British-made wool-blend socks to pair with their supple leather shoes- you can never have too many!
While you may know Dipples for jewellery and watches, this family-run business also offers considered gifts like a stylish leather and stainless-steel card holder.
And thanks to Chantry Place (home to Lisa Angel, H&M, Oliver Bonas and more) and John Lewis, there’s also plenty of high street heroes to shop too. Whether you’re searching for fun accessories or a ‘nice top’ for them to wear!
Whether cheese, meat or a slice of salame al cioccolato, Saporita’s deli is full of mouthwatering gifts
//Under £10: Saporita’s deli.
//Under £20: restaurant voucher for Pho, Giggling Squid, COSMO or Namaste Village; Sir Toby’s Beers or Beer Hatch gift box; Rosa’s Thai cookbook
//Under £35: Jarrolds’ hamper; Turtle Bay gift card.
Norwich is no stranger to tasty food and drink, so a perfectly wrapped box of sweet treats, bottle of local beer or well-thought-out hamper is never a bad idea.
When you’re in the City of Stories, heading to Jarrolds’ food hall is a no-brainer. This treasure trove of local produce is lined with colourful shelves full of gorgeously parcelled treats. From biscuits and chocolate to pasta and preserves. And if you’ve got a family get together coming up (or left it a little late!), peruse the deli for savouries, cakes and more to box up.
Speaking of delis- Saporita’s is ideal for any Italian lover, with fresh meats and moreish cheeses and sweet bites on offer.
If local spirits or beer are more their thing, check out Sir Toby’s Beers and Beer Hatch! Pick up a special pre-made beer gift box at Sir Toby’s (including East Anglian and continental bottles) or craft your own at Beer Hatch and opt for any combination of beers and glasses.
And for those who love a meal out at their favourite restaurant, you can’t go wrong with a voucher. If it’s a familiar name you’re after, how about a gift card for Pho (from £10), COSMO, Turtle Bay (from £25) or Giggling Squid (from £5)? For veggies, there’s Norwich’s Namaste Village (from £15) or recreate your go-to dishes at home with Rosa’s Thai’s Cookbook (£20)!
Sostrene Grene has homeware that will uplift interiors all year round
//Under £10: Søstrene Grene
//Under £20: Country & Eastern; Lazy Lobster.
There’s never a bad time to add an extra flourish to your interiors. And it’s often these nice touches that you wouldn’t buy yourself, meaning they make the perfect present!
The South Asia Collection’s museum shop Country and Eastern is a hidden gem, full of beautiful soft furnishings and curios using techniques from traditional Asian crafts. We love the printed cushion covers (from £4.95) and repurposed printing block hooks.
For the person who loves to make a statement, Lazy Lobster in the Royal Arcade is a go-to for quirky and colourful gifts. From witty prints and eye-catching candle sticks to creative puzzles, games and cool gifts they won’t know they needed (hello Great Sandwiches recipe book).
And for undeniably charming trinkets, Søstrene Grene is waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s seasonally appropriate decorations (including ceramic gingerbread house tea light holders) or stylish homeware to adorn your home all year round. Plus, if you’re in need of some equally attractive wrapping, there’s paper, boxes, bags and bows to choose from!
