The Best Places in Norwich, Chosen by Locals
The Best Places in Norwich, Chosen by Locals
One thing that characterises Norwich locals is their pride and love for our fine city.
Whether they’re a native who’s lived here their whole life or only recently moved to the city, it’s the community and independent spirit that really shapes Norwich’s warm welcome.
So, when you’re visiting, be it as a couple, a family, friends or solo, for a day trip, long weekend or week-long break, you’ll want to get to know the ‘real’ Norwich. The one where locals go.
So, we asked them what their favourite places in Norwich are and why. These are their answers!
Stroll through Cathedral Close and stop for a moment in the Herb Garden
Norwich Market and the Lanes, Kevin
“Norwich Market and a visit to the Lanes- amazing places to shop and so much history.”
VisitNorwich Recommends: Norwich Market and the Lanes are ideal for indie business lovers, whether you’re a foodie, plant parent or vintage fan. Fuel you exploration of our warren of Lanes with lunch from the market- we love a NYC-style sandwich from The Bodega (go for the Parmeggedon) or katsu chicken from Taste of Shanghai. Then, make time for Elm, Sevenwolves, Atwin, Pascale and, of course, Jarrolds.
Cathedral Close, Melanie
“Cathedral and grounds. A wonderful, relaxing place to walk and sit quietly.”
VisitNorwich Recommends: Local or visitor, opt for a free 1-hour tour of Norwich Cathedral to find out lesser-known stories and secrets about this 900-year-old Romanesque building. Think medieval graffiti and brilliant roof bosses. Follow this with a stroll around Cathedral Close (we love springtime for its abundance of confetti-like magnolias), including the fragrant herb garden.
You can’t go wrong with a scoop… or two or three from Cafe Gelato!
Loose’s Emporium, Julia
“We adore Loose’s Emporium on Magdalen Street. We can spend a happy hour or two browsing through this antiques and collectibles indoor market. There are two floors of furniture, furnishings, clothing, books, china, jewellery and more! Then there’s an outside area of garden items and a cafeteria for a sustaining cup of tea. We often come away with a treasured bargain.”
VisitNorwich Recommends: For more treasures, at nearby St Saviour’s Yard you’ll encounter a wonderful array of local makers, where one-of-a-kind creations are the norm. From prints and collage to handcrafted jewellery, candles and homemade chilli oil.
Cafe Gelato, Abbie
“My favourite place in Norwich is Cafe Gelato for delicious ice cream- it makes me happy in any weather, and I love wandering with it up through the Cathedral and along to watch the calm, peaceful river.”
VisitNorwich Recommends: Why indulge in just one scoop when you can have three? Some of our favourite Cafe Gelato combinations include Chocolate Sorbet, Norfolk Strawberry and Cheesecake, and Stracciatella, Coconut and Lemon Sorbet! Or if you need warming up, opt for a proper, rich Italian-style coffee.
While away a few hours on the river paddleboarding with The Lions’ Den
The Holloway and The Merchant’s House, Eleanor
“The Holloway and The Merchant’s House are my favourite places in Norwich because they’re good reading spots and feel calm, with a nice mix of food, events and music. If we have people stay who aren’t from Norwich, we always end up at Merchant’s courtyard- it’s a good place to take visitors because you can have a coffee, have a beer, chill and read or chat or listen to live music.”
VisitNorwich Recommends: Norwich is a city with a rich literary history, so for any bibliophile we suggest exploring our many literary locations and independent book shops! Our top picks are cleverly curated The Book Hive and The Julian Shrine, the site of Julian of Norwich’s anchoress cell, the first woman published in English (and a lovely garden!).
The Lions’ Den and The Garnet, Holly
“As a family we love to be on the water so the best place has to be dropping our paddleboards in at The Lions’ Den River and the meandering either out towards Thorpe or through the city. Another favourite is sitting outside the Sir Garnet – either with a chilled wine in an evening or a coffee with the kids in the day- and just watching the glorious Norwich people and the world by around our colourful Norwich Market.”
VisitNorwich Recommends: Norwich’s proximity to nature is one of our favourite things about the city. That’s why we love to get out onto the water with Pub & Paddle– gather your bestie and try Pub & Paddle & Pizza (yum!) – and Bishy Barney Boats– perfect for a long, lazy afternoon into the fringes of the Broads with friends and family (take a picnic)!
St Benedicts Street is popular for it’s buzzing food and drink scene
Kett’s Heights, Stefan
“Kett’s Heights is a beautiful secluded wooded garden and terrace with the remains of the medieval St Michaels chapel with stunning views across Norwich. The site where Robert Kett lay siege to Norwich in 1549, it has been lovingly restored by the committee that I volunteer on.”
VisitNorwich Recommends: Stay for the sunset to soak in nature’s beauty and skies painted in shades of pink, orange and purple. Then, head down to the Red Lion Bishopgate on the river for a crisp pint and delicious pub grub, either inside or outside on their waterside terrace.
St Benedicts Street, Katia
“One of my favourite areas in Norwich is St Benedicts Street because it’s home to my go-to places to eat- Haggle, Makers House and Bicycle Shop– and close to the city’s Creative Quarter, where you’ll find Amaretto (for coffee) and XO (for dinner).”
VisitNorwich Recommends: If you’re eating your way through St Benedicts Street, make sure to try Benedicts– a Michelin guide, fine dining restaurant which showcases fresh and local produce. Or opt for a show at Norwich Arts Centre afterwards. It’s a great place to discover local live music, comedy and more.
