Did you know wellness isn’t just about being active? (Although Norwich has plenty to boost your energy!) Culture has long been a source of improved wellbeing, so much so that Sweden even prescribes it to support your physical and mental health (we kid you not)! And that’s not all, a first-of-its-kind study by Art Fund is championing the power of gallery visits to reduce stress.
That’s why there’s no better reason to embrace Norwich’s unique mix of arts and culture. From our rich literary heritage as England’s first UNESCO City of Literature to pioneering galleries and major art exhibitions. Plus, with live music, unforgettable museums and gardens to explore, we’d always prescribe a visit to the City of Stories.
Here are our recommendations for cultural wellbeing in Norwich!
Main Image: ‘Sea Inside’ | Credit: Sainsbury Centre
Get involved at the National Centre for Writing
In the City of Stories, it’s safe to say that we’ve no shortage of incredible literary heritage. Reading is just another way to enhance your wellbeing.
Start by discovering Norwich’s storied streets with our Book Bench Trail. Each bench is carefully crafted from stone, wood and metal, depicting books on their spine, with open pages, stacked up or waiting to be chosen. See how many authors you can spot- from local author Anna Sewell to UEA Creative Writing alumni Ian McEwan.
The National Centre for Writing is housed in the historic Dragon Hall. Here, you can celebrate the power of words and ideas by getting involved in events, workshops and more. Maybe that’s a free drop-in and write session, a talk from local and international authors or a family-friendly workshop (free and ticketed).
At The Julian Shrine, you can immerse yourself in the life of 14th century Julian of Norwich, the first woman to be published in English. After experiencing a series of visions, Lady Julian wrote ‘Revelations of Divine Love’ in her anchoress cell on this site. Today, you can take a moment to contemplate Julian’s legacy in this peaceful place of pilgrimage. Then discover her story and those of her contemporaries next door at The Julian Centre (free).
The Sainsbury Centre will help you consider art differently
The first-of-its-kind study by King’s College London, Art Fund and the Psychiatry Research Trust suggests that viewing original art in a gallery environment has immediate benefits for our wellbeing. Norwich is no stranger to art as home to the Norwich School, England’s first regional society of artists. And Norwich Castle is home to the world’s largest collection of these artists, who include John Crome and Jospeh Stannard.
Packed with centuries of history, Norwich Castle’s galleries shouldn’t be missed (adults from £15.30, children from £13.05). They span a variety of mediums and subjects, including oils, photography, watercolours and sculpture, from the 17th century to contemporary works. Across the year, you can expect to encounter major exhibitions of some of history’s most influential artists. Whether it’s Roger Ackling, J.M.W. Turner or Paula Rego.
At forward-thinking art museum, the Sainsbury Centre, art spanning centuries, from Mesoamerica to 21st century Britain, is housed in this futuristic Norman Foster-designed building (pay what you can). Their innovative exhibition series tackles pressing questions such as ‘Can We Stop Killing Each Other?’ through unexpected angles and global perspectives. Whilst you’re here, discover the Sainsbury Centre’s free outdoor Sculpture Trail, where pieces by Antony Gormley, Lynn Chadwick and Henry Moore sit within natural surroundings.
Plantation Garden is a tranquil spot with architecture to admire
We’ve all felt the benefits of getting out in nature. And gardens are no different. Each one tells its own story, with both historical and geographical influences shaping its layout and horticulture.
Plantation Garden is Grade II listed and an oasis in our city centre (£2 donation). This former chalk quarry is now adorned with a grand Victorian Gothic fountain, Italianate terrace with views across lush lawns and elaborate flower beds. There are woodland trails, a Victorian greenhouse and plenty of sun kissed spots to take it all in.
In Cathedral Close, Norwich Cathedral’s medieval herb garden is wilder, bursting with colour and fragrance throughout the year (free). Originally, a medicinal and kitchen garden, it offers a tranquil space, where bees buzz around lavender, curry plants, thyme and more.
Another secret spot is Strangers’ Hall’s garden (free, Wednesday & Saturday). With a large lawn at one end and an Elizabethan Knot Garden at the other, towering trees and blooming roses, you can admire the flint walls of this former merchant’s house in peace and quiet.
In Norfolk, Pensthorpe’s (from £10.95) biosonification garden is East Anglia’s first. Native plants, reeds and flowers sway in the breeze beneath our county’s wide-open skies (perfect for stargazing, might we add). This sound bath garden is alive with music- the plants electrical signals are translated into ethereal melodies that change with the seasons.
Elsewhere, be sure to pay a visit to the natural habitats and trails of Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden (adults from £11.36, children from £5.41) and step through the Venetian gates of Holkham’s historic 6-acre walled garden (adults £7, children £1, March – November).
Don’t forget to look up in The South Asia Collection
Just when you think you’ve experienced the best of Norwich’s arts and culture scene, our streets reveal more hidden gems and independent venues. We’re home to one of the country’s oldest arts and culture festivals, Norfolk & Norwich Festival, and the largest stage in the east, Norwich Theatre Royal.
At The South Asia Collection, you’ll be greeted by a fascinating array of beautiful South and Southeast Asian arts, crafts and living traditions from Pakistan, India and Indonesia (free). Mirroring the craftmanship of the building’s incredible carved wooden ceiling (once a former skating rink), each display highlights intricate sculptures, prints, and textiles in a stunning spectrum of colour.
From award-winning nightclub Gonzo’s Two Room (Best Dance Venue at the Radio 1 Dance Awards) to 45-year-old multi arts venue Norwich Arts Centre (where you can enjoy real life story stand-up with True Stories Live), Norwich is no stranger to live music. (And that includes karaoke. At Bowling House, you can sing your heart out in one of their private booths and feel the positive social and mental effects of singing in a group as shown by a 2004 study from the Hanover University of Music and Drama.) Whether it’s local bands and emerging artists or international headliners, festivals like Wild Paths (played by the likes of Olivia Dean) and Rock N Roll Circus (whose 2026 festival is headlined by Madness, The Kooks and The Streets) boast line ups to dance the night away to.
