This International Museum Day, we thought we’d take some time to celebrate the incredible museums in Norwich and Norfolk. So, here’s our list of 7 great museums that we think you should check out.
1. Norwich Castle
If you’re coming to Norwich, you can’t really miss the Castle. The imposing medieval fortification can be found right in the heart of the city. But it’s not just a pretty building. The fact there’s a museum and art gallery on the inside is just the cherry on top of the cake! Enter the castle and you’ll be pulled into a world of treasures. With significant objects from the region, archaeological finds and natural history specimens, there’s so much to discover.
Norwich Castle
Note: Norwich Castle Keep is currently under renovation and due to re-open late in 2024. The work will take the castle back to its medieval status.
The Keep is currently closed but the rest of the museum and art galleries are open.
Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4.30pm
Sundays, 1pm to 4.30pm
Adult: £7.80; Child (age 4 -18): £6.60
2. Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell
Exploring life in Norwich and the stories that make up the city’s history, the Museum of Norwich is a must for history buffs. There’s so much to see, from galleries and displays, to a recreated early 20th century chemists’ shop, and a restored, fully working 19th century loom!
You can also take a trip to the dark underworld of Norwich, as below the Bridewell lies the largest undercroft in the city. Part of the original medieval house, these rooms were used for storage and to hold inmates when the building was a prison. It’s open to the public for guided tours which usually take place on the last Saturday of each month, free with museum admission.
Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 4.30pm
Last admission is at 4pm
Tickets: Adult: £7.80; Child (age 4-18): £6.60
Twilight tickets an hour before closing £2.50
The Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell
3. The South Asia Collection (Norwich City Centre)
A hidden gem in Norwich, The South Asia Collection is a museum that celebrates the arts, crafts, and cultures of South Asia. Located in the heart of Norwich on Bethel Street, it’s truly a wonder to behold. Housed in a restored Victorian skating rink, the building is Grade II listed and features a dramatic arched wooden roof.
While you’re there, pop into Country & Eastern, the museum shop for The South Asia Collection. With magnificent items big and small, it’s full to the brim of interesting and unusual finds. Plus, the collection and shop are free to enter!
Country & Eastern
4. Strangers; Hall (Norwich)
One of Norwich’s most historic buildings, this magnificent Tudor house – Strangers’ Hall – is a stunning merchant’s house, beautifully preserved which dates back to 1320. Today it is a wonderful museum which we compare to walking through a doll house. Representing the eras see wonderfully decorated rooms such as the Great Hall, Georgian Dining Room, Undercroft, Victorian kitchen and nursery and Knot Garden. It’s truly wonderful.
Wednesdays 10am – 4pm, Sundays 1pm – 4.30pm
Last admission is 30 minutes before closing
Tickets: Adults £6.80, children 4 – 18 £5.90 (other tickets available)
5. Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse (Dereham, 21.5 miles from Norwich)
Located in Dereham, Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse is a traditional working Norfolk farm, where you can learn all about rural life. See traditional farming techniques demonstrated, and wander round the farmhouse to get an idea of how farming families used to live.
Gressenhall Farm & Workhouse
Set in 50 acres of unspoilt countryside, the grounds include a lovely river valley, water meadows, woodland, and circular walks to take around the farm. It’s the perfect setting for a brilliant day outdoors this summer.
6. Sainsbury Centre (Norwich)
Not just the home of the Avengers, the Sainsbury Centre at the University of East Anglia has on show some of the most remarkable works of art assembled in the UK. From sculptures to paintings and even jewellery – there’s a fascinating range of beautiful objects to discover.
Once you’ve taken in the permanent collection housed inside, head out for The Sculpture Park. Set within 350 acres of parkland, the park includes important works by many notable artists such as Antony Gormley. Entry to
The Sculpture Park and the permanent collection and exhibitions is offered under a ‘pay if and what you can’ scheme.
Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Sculpture Park
7. Wroxham Miniature Worlds (The Broads, 8.3 miles from Norwich)
For something a little different, head to Wroxham Miniature Worlds. The largest indoor modelling attraction in the UK, that stretches a massive 10,000 square feet. There are several zones to investigate, from model railways (with some of the largest models in the world on permanent display!), to a whole city made of Lego and a vintage Penny Arcade!
Wroxham Minature Worlds
With an onsite café and a toy shop, it’s great for a family day out. Children under 5 go free, children 5-15 £8.95 and adults £11.95.
