A Theatre Break in Norwich
A Theatre Break in Norwich
by Katie Thompson
Whether you’re after a must-see musical arriving direct from the West End or the next up-and-coming drama, a theatre break in Norwich is always a good idea.
With six theatres to choose from– including the biggest stage in the East of England- and ticket prices cheaper than London, you can expect a stay full of culture- one that is likely to persuade you to return! (And it’s easier than you think to get here.)
So, when you want to know which theatre to book, where to stay and the best spots for pre-theatre dining, we’ve got it covered.
Image: Norwich Theatre
How to Get Here
Getting to Norwich is easier than you think- whether you’re driving or coming by train. Credit: VisitNorwich
Getting to Norwich is simpler than you think!
If you’re hopping on the train, Greater Anglia services will take you from London Liverpool Street to our central station in under 2 hours, via Chelmsford, Colchester and Ipswich. Or come direct from Cambridge in just over an hour. Trains run every half hour and when you arrive, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the city centre!
Coming from further afield? East Midlands Railway connects Norwich directly with Liverpool Lime Street, by way of Manchester, Sheffield, Nottingham and Peterborough.
Or if you’re driving, it’s 1hr 30 from Cambridge and 2hrs from London via the A11. From the east, the A47 links Norwich to Peterborough and Leicester.
Which Theatres to Book
Norwich Theatre is known for welcoming a huge range of shows, including comedians, plays and musicals like Hadestown. Credit: Marc Brenner
Did you know Norwich is home to the largest stage in the East of England? Norwich Theatre Royal has been entertaining audiences for decades and is a regular stop on the touring circuit for big name comedians and anticipated musicals- not to mention ballets, orchestras and plays. They’ve even partnered with the likes of Carlos Acosta and the Royal Shakespeare Company to make productions more accessible, whether you’re a long-time theatregoer or want to try something new. It’s not unusual for shows to sell-out, so we suggest booking in advance, but there are often clusters of seats still available during the week they’re showing.
And at their other venues- Stage Two and the Playhouse, take a seat for an alternative line-up and emerging names. From new East Anglian talent to artistic experimentation- the Playhouse is even where the first iteration of SIX was launched and now it regularly returns to the Theatre Royal!
Norwich Theatre is the biggest stage in the East of England, and home to Stage Two and the Playhouse.
What’s more, Norwich Theatre is great for accessible theatre trips. They have a dedicated Accessibility Scheme which caters to physical and mental disabilities, and offer a range of BSL, captioned, dementia-friendly, relaxed and audio-described performances.
Our top tip? If you’re like us and love a traditional ticket, book via Norwich Theatre’s Box Office and pick it up when you arrive. It makes a lovely souvenir!
And for alternative performances, be sure to check out the upcoming programmes of the Maddermarket Theatre (a community theatre known for affordable local and touring performances, tributes and comedians) and Norwich Puppet Theatre (which welcomes brand-new plays, drag stars, illusionists and more alongside their popular puppetry).
Where to Eat
At Prelude, the table is yours for the night! Credit: Richard Jarmy
When you’re looking for somewhere to dine pre-theatre, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got enough time to relax and enjoy your food beforehand.
On that note, we suggest booking a table at Norwich Theatre’s Prelude restaurant. Here, you can expect modern dining and contemporary flavours at a great price. We love to start with fluffy focaccia doused in olive oil and olives before a main course and a pudding (two courses is £28; three is £33). The menu changes seasonally, showcasing local produce and fresh ingredients, catering to veggies, vegans and pescatarians. Even better, your table is yours for the evening, so there’s no need to rush! Take your time and return at the interval for dessert or pre-ordered refreshment.
Indulge in French classics pre-theatre at Côte Brasserie. Credit: Côte Brasserie
Elsewhere, Côte Brasserie offers a quintessentially French menu in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for moules frites (which includes free flow frites that you can top up until your heart’s content) or a grilled burger with slices of brie (this is top of our list), you can rely on friendly and efficient service for a cosmopolitan feel and enjoyable experience. Or at Chantry Place, keep an eye out for pre-theatre dining offers from foodie favourites such as Mowgli and Rosa’s Thai!
Where to Stay
After a night full of culture, indulge in a stay at 38 St Giles. Credit: 38 St Giles
For stays in the heart of it all, The Assembly House and 38 St Giles are ideal for a theatre break in Norwich.
The Assembly House is situated on Theatre Street, mere minutes from Norwich Theatre Royal and Stage Two (from £170 per night for 2 people, including breakfast). It’s a Georgian gem which perfectly marries character with modern facilities and stylish interiors. Think plush furnishings in eye-catching colour palettes, sleek bathrooms with walk-in showers and freestanding baths, and a mouthwatering breakfast spread beneath glittering chandeliers.
And in the buzz of the Lanes, you’ll find 38 St Giles, a luxury guesthouse which elevates a night away to something memorable (from £140 per night for 2 people). In easy walking distance of most of Norwich’s theatres, you’ll be greeted with homemade brownies and a seamless check-in experience that allows you to arrive at your convenience. Relax in sumptuous king-size beds and chic bathrooms, then see where your feet take you for breakfast the next morning.
