by Katie Thompson
From cosy autumn afternoons to evenings in the warm summer sunshine, we all love the promise of a well-deserved and refreshing drink- be it a crisp pint, glass of wine, cocktail, or non-alcoholic concoction!
And here in Norwich, we’ve got a fabulous number of bars (and pubs) to suit all tastes. Whether you’re spending the day exploring the city, catching up with friends or even searching for an intimate first date spot. Drink in the City of Stories’ buzzing independents and tasty tipples with our guide to the best bars in Norwich!
If you’re thirsty for more- check out our Eat & Drink page!
Gonzo’s atmosphere is totally unique- just remember to check out their rooftop
Gonzo’s Tea Room is buzzing. Enter on the ground floor and you’ll be treated to a cosy space decorated with quirky prints, eccentric ornaments, and glowing fairy lights. Sip on a classic cocktail with a twist from the bar’s well stocked shelves. And in warmer months, enjoy an hour or two spent on Gonzo’s rooftop under sunny blue skies.
It’s all about the atmosphere here. Expect an eclectic soundtrack of Afro rhythms, soulful beats, dancefloor fillers and more, delivered by a rotating lineup of local legends and international DJs in Gonzo’s signature offbeat style. So, if you want to make a night of it, you’re in the right place. Gonzo’s Two Room was recently voted the Best Dance Venue in Europe at the Radio 1 Dance Awards!
As one of the city’s most popular bars, a visit to Norwich Theatre’s Playhouse Bar is a must if you want to know Norwich like a local. Loved for its leafy riverside terrace festooned in twinkling lights and cool speakeasy-style interior (just look at the ceiling), the Playhouse Bar will see you from day to night across the year. And for any beer lovers, this is the ideal spot to try real ales from local breweries!
At the heart of our fine city is Norwich Market, home to Sir Toby’s Beers. This craft beer bar and bottle shop sells over 100 different choices- from Norfolk real ales to stouts, lagers and more! We recommend trying their signature cherry beer- the perfect end-of-the-week pick-me-up on a Friday evening. And come winter, it would be rude not to treat yourself to a warming glühwein!
Try a cherry beer at Sir Toby’s Beers, then take a bottle home!
Speaking of continental beers, Bier Draak specialises in Belgian, Dutch, and German keg beer and bottles. With 14 taps to choose from, this carefully curated selection is a bold celebration of tradition and flavour. It’s a small and intimate space which offers outside seating to really bring a sense of alfresco European culture to our fine city. Keep an eye out for specials and fun events like specialist tastings, Oktoberfest, their UnWINEd wine club and festive Irish coffees!
For an authentic Norfolk brewery experience, Redwell Brewery is unique. Enjoy their locally brewed craft beer right in the working taproom! Their full range is vegan and gluten-free, so anyone can enjoy a drop. From fruity flavours to crisp pilsners and smooth pale ales- a Redwell craft beer is packed with personality. We highly suggest a brewery tour during your visit so you can fully appreciate all the work behind their beers when you drink them!
For groups, families, or friends, Yalm is a go-to- especially when you’ve got a range of tastes to cater to. And this goes for drinks too because Yalm has not one but three bars! Relax in the calm surrounds of Skippers bar, where lovingly created cocktails infuse a selection of sprits from around the world. Or perhaps a spirit is more your thing? There’s also a great wine list and 15 craft beer taps, both including local producers. So, sit back, order from the app and relax to the tune of a local DJ on weekends.
When it’s warm, head out onto the Playhouse bar’s terrace
Not only is the Maids Head Hotel a charming place to stay, this historic hotel is also home to a bar that has served Norwich since the 1200s. Full of character and panelled with Jacobean Oak, even Horatio Nelson is rumoured to have had his first pint here. And the best part? The Maids Head Bar is a fantastic showcase of local beers, spirits, and wines. Discover a new favourite with their beer flight or savour a refreshing cocktail in their outdoor courtyard.
Tucked away on Bedford Street, Dick’s is a buzzing speakeasy-style bar. This intimate space is known for its natural wines and exciting cocktails, making it the perfect spot for a chilled evening with friends or a relaxed date just the two of you. Whether you’re searching for a zingy cocktail, tart orange wine, citrussy IPA, or even a cooling iced coffee, Dick’s has you covered. Top tip: check out their outdoor space!
Tipsy Jar is a go-to for friends. Here, you can really immerse yourself in the world of cocktail making by shaking your own chosen tipple! Each recipe is designed by their own in-house mixologist. From fruity gins to creamy Espresso Martinis to refreshing non-alcohol versions, each one using fresh produce with quality spirits.
Meanwhile, Tipsy Jar’s nearby sister bar J. Doe & Co offers an introduction to whiskey (and other spirits) through their fun cocktail menu (use their code to find the right level for you) and ‘Taste the Dram’ monthly menu.
For a carefully curated fine wine list, pay a visit to The Last
Not only is our independent department store Jarrolds is home to an amazing food hall packed with local wines, beers, and spirits, its lower ground floor also houses two wine bars. When you’re in the mood for savoury, there’s the Cheese & Charcuterie Wine Bar, a delicatessen-style space which pairs the best Norfolk cheeses with exclusive local wines and expertly chosen worldwide flavours. And for a sweet tooth? Jarrolds’ Patisserie Wine Bar offers treats like locally made macarons!
Set in a beautiful old shoe factory, The Last brings fine wines to Norwich’s Creative Quarter. Think independent wineries, local vineyards and a sparkling selection that will transport you across the globe. Plus, the buzzing brasserie’s ever-changing list is a great excuse to come back again soon and for non-wine drinkers, their bespoke beer menu has been curated by a local CAMRA expert!
The Wallow is a wine bar like one you’ve never experienced before: think wine vending machines. All you have to do is head to the bar, top up your own Wallow card and pick your bottle of choice. With a selection of over 50 wines, more than 40 varieties and an array of different countries and regions, there’s really a tipple for every palate. And you can sample them beforehand! We suggest whiling away the afternoon sharing a delicious Wallow Board to accompany your wine.
Pair your wine with patisserie or a selection of Norfolk cheese at Jarrolds
For a wine bar that knows what it’s talking about, head to Melville & Sons for a specially curated wine list. Showcasing both well-known and emerging wineries, pair a glass of red, wine or rose with thoughtfully created small dishes. With a sleek interior and outside dining that channels Paris en terrasse, Melville & Sons is a sophisticated bar in the heart of Norwich’s historic Cathedral Quarter ideal for weekday evenings.
As a city once known for having a pub for every day of the year, Norwich really has some special spots for a pint. From waterside terraces at the Ribs of Beef and Red Lion Bishopsgate to pubs popular with locals like the Plough and Ten Bells. Not to mention The Garnet for city centre people-watching and some great beer gardens.
