by Katie Thompson
What better way to showcase the city’s fantastic array of bars, pubs and restaurants than Norwich Cocktail Week? This is where our thriving drinks scene meets creative flair.
As a celebration of Norwich’s vibrant cocktail culture, you’ll no longer need an excuse to revisit old favourites (or make a dent in your ‘to try’ list)! Running from Friday 26 September – Sunday 5 October, there are 30 venues to try- each with a signature cocktail and mocktail. From classic concoctions to innovative flavours, it’s time to get your friends together and shake, sip and share!
Keep reading to find out how it works and who’s involved!
Image: The Merchant’s House cocktail- smooth Monkey Shoulder whiskey meets zesty lemon and earthy matcha for a bold, refreshing sip.
Cheers to Norwich Cocktail Week! Image: Melville & Sons’ cocktail- rich Buffalo Trace bourbon blended with sweet honey, juicy blackberries and a hint of basil, finished with a touch of Pedro Ximénez for depth- and mocktail (see further down).
Think crisp and citrusy, rich and creamy, elegant and aromatic. There’s a cocktail or mocktail for everyone. Appreciate the artistry as each glass is transformed before you.
With 30 venues participating across the city, there are 5 bespoke trails to complete- Watermelon, Ice, Star Anise, Mint and Citrus. And all you have to do is download the FREE Norwich Cocktail Week app (find it on Google Play and the App Store)!
Whenever you enter a venue, be sure to scan the Norwich Cocktail Week QR code displayed at the bar and you’ll see that venue ‘stamped’ on the relevant trail within the app. Once you’ve got every digital stamp, head to the final venue on the list to claim your very own (and very stylish, we might add) Norwich Cocktail Week t-shirt! (Subject to availability.)
At each venue, you’ll discover a signature cocktail (£7.50) and mocktail (£6), but this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the rest of the menu and still get your stamp, too! Especially when the likes of Tipsy Jar, Melville & Sons and more have so many enticing choices.
Our top tip? Use the app’s map to plan your route based on your chosen cocktails!
And that’s not all. Throughout the week, be sure to check out special events like cocktail-making masterclasses and tasting sessions. Not only will there be expert mixologists on hand as you learn to shake (or stir) your own creation, you’ll be making long-lasting memories too.
Whether it’s a cocktail or mocktail, you can expect citrussy, sweet, coffee and bitter flavours. Image: Yalm’s Skipper’s Skipper cocktail- bold citrus tones, sweet fruit and smooth maple carried on a crisp wave of soda foam.
When we say Norwich Cocktail Week is a citywide adventure, we mean it!
From the buzzing streets of St Benedicts to the ever-popular Tombland, independent bars, stylish restaurants and familiar names are all taking part. Think cosy spots aglow with fairy lights (hello, Merchant’s House and The Yard), elegant spaces like The Last and Maids Head, and lively cocktail bars including Mr Postles’ and Chambers. If you’re looking for a spritz with a view head to Rooftop Gardens, or if you’re converting a beer lover, Bier Draak and Sir Toby’s are the ones for you.
While you’re here, we suggest grabbing a bite to eat (whether you want a savoury light bite or sweet snack) or check out Norwich’s independent eateries along the way (you won’t regret it)!
Check out the trails and their venues below! (Just remember to download the app for all the details in the palm of your hand– and to game-ify your adventure throughout the week.)
Watermelon Trail – The Last, The Merchant’s House, Chambers, Maids Head Hotel, Melville & Sons, Tipsy Jar.
Citrus Trail – Harry’s Soul Station, The Reindeer, Ten Bells, The Waffle House, First Draft, J.Doe & Co.
Mint Trail – The Yard, Middletons, Pinker & Green, Yalm, Turtle Bay, The Weavers Arms, Cosy Club.
Ice Trail – Rooftop Gardens, Bier Draak, Be At One, 11th & Social, Bond No.28, The Wildman
Star Anise Trail – The Drawing Rooms, Sir Toby’s Beers, Dick’s Bar, The Tipsy Anchor, Gonzo’s Tea Room, Amelia’s, Mr Postles’ Apothecary.
Create your own concoction at cocktail-making masterclasses. Image: Melville & Sons’ mocktail- lemon, sweet strawberry and crisp apple come together with a hint of Opius Amaro and a sprinkle of Tajín for a vibrant, zesty flavour.
J.Doe & Co – Make Your Own Cocktail Masterclass
Throughout the week
Charing Cross
If you’ve ever wanted to make your own cocktail, head to J.Doe & Co! Order their signature cocktail- a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned and you’ll have the chance to test your mixologist skills as you shake, stir and finesse your concoction in their masterclass room.
The Last – ‘First Thursday’ James Bond & Cocktails Night
Thursday 2 October
St Georges Street
The name’s Bond, James Bond. Join The Last for a special evening of carefully crafted cocktails, delicious food and 007-themed music! You can expect all your favourites- Tom Jones, Carly Simon, Billie Eilish and, of course, Shirley Bassey as you indulge in The Last’s menu du jour or a la carte.
