by Katie Thompson
When it comes to choosing your next city break or day out (be it with family, friends or your own company), there’s nothing more appealing than getting outdoors and embracing the fresh air. Whether that’s ambling along charming city streets or embracing the glorious greenery of surrounding countryside.
Well, you’ve come to the right place. As the only city in England located in a national park (the Norfolk Broads, in case you were wondering), Norwich is the perfect destination for urban exploration, picnicking in the sunshine and unwinding with a stroll. What’s more, they’re all completely free!
Here are our top picks for free things to do outdoors in Norwich!
Free Sightseeing | Free & Low Cost | Free Outdoors
Embrace the charm of Norwich Cathedral grounds and riverside walk
Not only are Norwich Cathedral’s grounds one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces, they’re also right in the middle of it all. Step through the grand Ethelbert and Erpingham Gates from Tombland and you’ll be welcomed into calm Cathedral Close.
Here, locals picnic on the green in the shadow of the UK’s second tallest spire and stroll along cobbled roads, admiring traditional houses, well-kept gardens and colourful blooms. (If you’re visiting in spring, this is home to some of Norwich’s best magnolia.)
Pass by Paddington and stop for a souvenir photo before entering the Cathedral’s fragrant Herb Garden. Here, bees and butterflies flit from lavender to rosemary to thyme, embracing its sweet scent.
As you wander through Cathedral Close, you’ll come to Norwich’s riverside walk. The river Wensum’s grassy banks are home to swans, weeping willows and some of the city’s must-see landmarks (including Cow Tower, Pull’s Ferry and St James’ Mill). For a relaxing hour or two, we suggest starting the river walk from St Crispin’s Bridge, meandering west past St Georges Street, Quayside and along to Lady Julian Bridge, where you can head back into the city along historic King Street.
Whitlingham is lovely place to visit and it’s close to the city centre
Southeast of the city and only a 30-minute bus journey (or 8-minute drive) from Norwich Bus Station is Whitlingham Country Park. This man-made Broad boasts a peaceful 2-mile circular walk around the lake where you can spot bobbing birds, watch water sports and even follow the white sails of Norwich Yacht Club floating by.
It’s easy to while away your morning, afternoon or evening here. From feeding the ducks (a favourite for families) to cycling along woodland paths, Whitlingham is an oasis of calm mere moments from Norwich’s buzz.
And when it comes to parks, Norwich certainly isn’t short of some tranquil green spaces. There’s Chapelfield Gardens– perfect for families or reading a book and home to Norfolk & Norwich Festival’s Festival Gardens during May, Eaton Park– where locals go to walk the dog, enjoy their weekends and have a go at mini golf, and, of course, Mousehold Heath– the spot for incredible skyline views from sunrise to sunset.
There are 26 miles to explore on Marriott’s Way!
With 26 miles to explore between Norwich and Aylsham, Marriott’s Way will take you along two disused railway tracks reclaimed by nature. This is a popular route for walkers, horse riders and cyclists, with views of wildlife, woodland and meadows. And you won’t be short of things to see- there’s public art, spectacular views and a railway museum!
No matter the time of year, you’ll be treated to nature’s best. In warmer months, Marriott’s Way is lush and dense, in autumn, stoats weave through piles of crunchy gold leaves, and in winter, squirrels and small birds ready for hibernation.
From Aylsham, you can head even further into Norfolk’s verdant and varied landscape- either to the coast or into the Broads.
Explore the Sainsbury Centre’s Sculpture Park and UEA Broad together
Set in the grounds of the University of East Anglia is the Sainsbury Centre. This pioneering art museum’s Sculpture Park means you can contemplate works of art by the likes of Antony Gormley, Lynn Chadwick and Henry Moore in the peaceful surroundings of UEA Broad. (Use their free pocket guide to find them all!)
Follow the Broad’s boardwalk next to the water’s edge, where Laurence Edwards’ Man of Stones emerges from the woodland, and you’ll discover an ancient oak tree that’s over 400 years old. This is where striking modern and brutalist architecture meets Norwich’s natural side.
After observing each sculpture, why not venture further into the Yare River Valley and Marston Marshes? It’s a relaxing route all year round.
Our Book Benches are dotted throughout the city
It’s easy to spend a whole day here in Norwich. One of our favourite things to do is amble along our charming streets, exploring unique spots, shops and eateries.
A great way to see the city is following our Book Bench Trail. And you’ll learn about our rich literary heritage along the way! Dotted throughout the city, this 5.7km (3.5 miles) trail will guide you from the Norwich Lanes, through historic Tombland and into our bustling marketplace.
Replicating piles of books, open spines, stacked shelves and more, you can rest at each carefully crafted bench just absorbing your surroundings. Take note of Norwich’s most famous literary names- including Julian of Norwich, Anna Sewell and Philip Pullman!
Whilst your wander, keep an eye out for Break’s GoGo sculptures (summertime) and free events happening outside The Forum (year round)!
Meet the beautiful animals at Redwings Horse Sanctuary
Just 12 miles from Norwich is Redwings Horse Sanctuary. Set in the idyllic Norfolk countryside outside of popular market town Aylsham, Redwings is home to over 70 residents- including horses, donkeys and ponies. And here, you can come face-to-face with these beautiful creatures for free! It’s perfect for any animal lover.
For little ones, there’s the chance to dress up and play games, and for the not-so-little visitors, you can stroll around the site’s two thriving wildlife ponds. From real-life Black Beauty Maya and best friends Wiggins and Wacko to friendly cob Pickle and mischievous miniature Shetlands, The Gangsters, you can even join Redwings to celebrate their birthdays!
