Norwich City Hosts Recommend

Norwich City Hosts Recommend

Whether you’re a visitor in need of directions or a Norwich native looking for somewhere new to discover, Norwich’s City Hosts are ‘here to help’! (You’ll recognise the saying from their bright blue tabards!) 

And this knowledgeable group are all volunteers, ones who love their city and love helping others. Oh, and they enjoy a chat now and again. 

So, next time you’re out and about in Norwich with a question to ask, say hello, pick up a map and find out something you didn’t know about our fine city. In the meantime, start planning your next trip to the City of Stories with recommendations from the City Hosts below!

---

Lorna

What’s your name? How long have you been a City Host? 

My name is Lorna and I’ve been a City Host for 9 years. 

What was your reason for volunteering? 

I like to help people feel welcome and make the most of their visit to Norwich- whatever they want or need from it! 

If I’m visiting Norwich with my dog, where do you recommend?  

Norwich riverside walk has plenty of dog friendly pubs and cafes along the way. It’s also lovely on a sunny day- as it the open top sightseeing bus! 

I’d like to go on a walking tour. Who should I choose and why? 

It depends on what you’re interested in. For something unique, try The Shoebox Experiences’ Hidden Street tour. Otherwise, I recommend looking at themed tours from Paul Dickson and Norwich Story Walks which cover more of the city. 

I’m feeling peckish, where do you suggest for lunch? 

The Norwich Lanes has everything from fish and chips to tasty, filled baps to a stylish French bistro! 

What’s your favourite lesser-known spot in Norwich? 

My favourite lesser-known spots in Norwich are St Giles Street and Upper St Giles. Both have a restful atmosphere and are home to interesting, arty shops, delis and some great architecture worth admiring.  

I love history and heritage. Can you tell me why I should visit Norwich’s two cathedrals? 

Norwich’s two cathedrals are a wonderful contrast- Norwich Cathedral is Norman and Romanesque, while The Cathedral of St John the Baptist is Victorian Gothic Revival. They tell the story of two great eras of prosperity for Norwich, not to mention amazing design and craftsmanship of their times. 

Both are beautiful and full of quirky features- including a chocolate-vat-turned-font and Civil War bullet!  

Clara

What’s your name? 

Clara. 

How long have you been a City Host? 

Since summer 2024. 

What was your reason for volunteering? 

I enjoy getting out and about and chatting to people! 

What’s your favourite hidden gem in Norwich? 

I love Kett’s Heights. It’s a wonderful viewpoint to look down upon the city. 

Tell us your top picks for an independent cafe. 

Carberry’s– they do lovely food and the cafe’s home to a big fluffy dog called Toby- and Iyasaka, a cool Japanese comfort food cafe with friendly staff.  

Is there anywhere I shouldn’t miss? 

Don’t miss St Saviour’s Yard. This new box park opened up on Magdalen Street less than a year ago and is home to plenty of funky small shops! 

Tina & Elaine

What are your names? 

We’re Tina and Elaine.  

How long have you been a City Host? What was your reason for volunteering? 

T: 10 years.  

E: I’ve been a host for 13 years- I joined because I wanted to help ‘show off’ this fine city to more people and share my love of Norwich! 

What’s your favourite hidden gem in Norwich? 

E: The Plantation Garden is a hidden gem.  

T: There’s also the tapestry in St Peter Mancroft church, which shows the Last Supper and was created by Flemish weavers. And Country & Eastern (The South Asia Collection’s shop) on Bethel Street. It sells beautiful carpets, curios and furniture. 

E: Yes, this former Victorian skating rink shouldn’t be missed!  

Tell us your top picks for an independent cafe. 

T: No. 33 on Exchange Street- the queues are worth it. 

E: Go to Carberry’s Cafe on Wensum Street- it’s a favourite of us Hosts!