How to Spend 48 Hours in Norwich

18 December 2025

How to Spend 48 Hours in Norwich

by Katie Thompson

Norwich is a city brimming with things to see, do, experience and taste. So, when you’ve got just two days to make the most of your visit, where do you start?  

This is an itinerary for when you want an alternative visit to the City of Stories. Think must-see attractions combined with authentic experiences that will make you feel like a local. Top that off with mouthwatering food and drink and you’ve got a recipe for an unforgettable two days away. 

Here’s our itinerary to 48 hours in Norwich!

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Day One
Museum of Norwich/ Norwich Market/ Food & Drink Tour 

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//See & Do: Museum of Norwich; Beer, Sausage Roll & Pastry Tour with Cheryl Cade.
//Eat & Drink: Norwich Market; Brix & Bones.
//Shop: Jarrolds; Atwin; Bowhill & Elliott; Søstrene Grene. 

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Once you’ve dropped off your bags, Norwich is yours to explore.  

Start by getting to know our fine city a little bit better at the Museum of Norwich (adults from £8.20, children from £6.90, Tuesday – Saturday). This fascinating (and fully accessible) museum tells the story of Norwich’s industries and its people, taking you on a journey through ten galleries packed with object-rich displays.  

From Victorian shopfronts with interactive exhibits- open the doors to discover incredibly preserved pieces- to the intriguing tale of local legend Peter the Wild Boy, a favourite of King George I. Head upstairs, where you’ll be greeted by a perfectly recreated early 20th century chemist’s shop- with an array of potions and pills still in their original packaging, before admiring eye-catching shoes (you might have had a similar pair!) and the museum’s restored 19th century jacquard loom. It’s the legacy of Norwich’s once-booming textile trade.  

Now you’re in the heart of the Norwich Lanes, it would be rude not to discover the myriad of independent shops, right? There’s Atwin (opposite the Museum of Norwich), a consciously curated lifestyle store which showcases local creatives and champions timeless, natural pieces. Also on your list should be Bowhill & Elliott– the only shoemakers in the UK to still sell out front and make in the back- and Søstrene Grene, ideal for homebodies and stationery lovers. And we couldn’t forget Jarrolds. Our award-winning independent department store is brimming with five floors of fashion, beauty and more. Not to mention a food hall that’ll make your eyes light up! 

If you’re feeling peckish, we suggest Norwich Market for a light bite. With its melting pot of multicultural flavours, you’re sure to find something to your tastes- be it a HUGE New York-style sandwich, Spanish albondigas or donburi bowl.  

But you’ll want to keep room for international food judge Cheryl Cade’s Beer, Sausage Roll and Pastry Tour (£53pp, 18+, private and public tours available)! You’ll tuck into 5 beers and 5 pastries (including at least 3 sausage rolls) in 5 different venues across the city- from historic Tombland to our medieval marketplace to bustling St Benedicts Street. And on the way, expect snippets of local history, valuable beer tips and plenty of laughs! 

End your day on a high later in the evening with fine dining at Brix & Bones. Known for their opening-fire cooking and use of fresh local produce, you can indulge in bold and eclectic flavours inspired by head chef George’s world travels. Think aged beef flambadou prawns, wild Norfolk venison and their bone marrow fudge doughnut. You can pair it with a tipple from their extensive wine list,  where wonderful wine expert Brian Sullivan is on hand to advise you. And for a truly special treat, how about a front-row seat at the chef’s counter?

Day Two
The Waffle House/ Sainsbury Centre/ Afternoon Tea 

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//See & Do: Sainsbury Centre.
//Eat & Drink: The Waffle House; The Assembly House. 

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Start your day with a moreish breakfast at The Waffle House (Monday – Sunday). This unique eatery has been a Norwich mainstay for over 45 years thanks to its tempting dishes. Opt for a white or wholemeal waffle (there are gluten free and vegan options too!), before taking your pick of the menu. We suggest the halloumi and hash stack or spiced fruit and granola waffle, accompanied by a fresh orange juice, of course. 

Then head to the Sainsbury Centre (pay what you can, Tuesday – Sunday). It’s just a 15-minute bus journey from Earlham Road (head to Upper St Giles and cross the footbridge, then hop aboard the 25 or 26 bus outside The Cathedral of St John the Baptist).  

Before discovering this futuristic Norman Foster-designed building, take a lovely stroll around their Sculpture Park (free), set within 350 acres of parkland. With a series of works dotted around UEA Broad, you can stroll along the boardwalk, admiring pieces by Antony Gormley, Lynn Chadwick and more as they intertwine with the nature that surrounds them. 

Inside, you’ll be greeted with a vast yet welcoming space, where light pours in and illuminates displays from across the globe (and history). (One to look out for is ‘Walking Hippopotamus’, an Egyptian figure dating back to 1880 BC!)  

Look around, your curiosity may be piqued by a display or two. From a huggable Henry Moore (we’re not kidding!) to a life-size display case, here, art is seen as living. And the Sainsbury Centre doesn’t shy away from the big questions either. Their biannual seasons investigate questions from ‘What is the Meaning of Life?’ to ‘How Do We Find Love?’ through a series of engaging and thought-provoking exhibitions. With art from the Sainsbury Centre’s own archives to specially created pieces from artists in residence, this forward-thinking art museum will make you see things a little differently. 

End your visit to Norwich on a high (via the 25 or 26 bus back into the city centre) with afternoon tea at The Assembly House (£32.50pp)! Known for their towers of themed treats, tuck into plates of handmade delights. And for savoury lovers, you’re catered for too! (Afternoon Cheese or Seas anyone?) 

Think fluffy finger sandwiches (you can ask for complimentary top ups), Assembly House classics like their flaky sausage roll and three cheese toastie, and cheese and fruit scones. The pièce de résistance is their handcrafted patisserie. Whether the theme is cosy and seasonal or a magical fairytale, you can expect an exquisitely layered gateau slice, perfectly round macarons, creamy shot glass desserts and more. (Luckily there are takeaway boxes if you’d rather save them for later!)

Where to Stay 

For a characterful city centre stay, look no further than the Maids Head Hotel (from £135 per night room only for 2 people). As the oldest site of hospitality in the country, you can expect traditional beams and charming views of Tombland and Norwich Cathedral, alongside plush furnishings and modern touches, like four-poster beds and roll-top baths.  

And if you’ve got a little extra time, make sure to enjoy a complimentary ride in the Maids Head’s Bentley. P.S We suggest not booking breakfast and instead taking a seat at the many great places to eat in Norwich. From a freshly made pastry with steaming frothy coffee to a full local English!