by Katie Thompson
When autumn falls upon Norwich, golden leaves crunch with every footstep and sunlight glows along our cobbled streets. From Saturdays mooching around the city to lazy Sundays out in nature, autumn is the perfect time to explore what’s on offer in the City of Stories.
It’s a season to embrace our culture, heritage and our natural side. This is where you can find modern art in medieval marvels, people watch with a pint on Norwich Market, and discover a river made for walking, paddling and sauna! Not to mention recharging in the breathtaking Norfolk landscape.
Here’s our guide to Norwich in autumn!
Watch the world go by at one of Norwich’s many independent pavement cafes
Second-hand shopping gems are in abundance if you know where to look. Head to the Norwich Lanes for vintage fashion, not forgetting St Gregory’s church for antiques and collectables. On Norwich Market, discover vintage men’s- and womenswear, and on Magdalen Street, a treasure trove of curios at Loose’s Emporium.
It’s easy to watch the world go by at one of Norwich’s many independent pavement cafes, steaming latte in hand. Whether a matcha, flat white or hot chocolate is more your thing, accompany it with a fresh flaky pastry. Sweet or savoury, the choice is yours.
Treat yourself to an incredible fine dining meal at Brix & Bones
There’s nothing quite like a refreshing pint in the crisp autumnal sunlight. Discover the selection of continental beers at Sir Toby’s stall on Norwich Market, before making your way to Gonzo’s Tea Room for rooftop drinks under twinkling fairy lights as the sun sets.
An evening of cocktails, retro bowling lanes and singing your heart out to karaoke all under one roof? Sign us up! For a group of friends, Bowling House is a must-visit. And you can feast on a mouthwatering menu of sharing plates to fuel your night out!
Head to Brix & Bones for an unforgettable fine dining experience. With local Norfolk produce cooked over an open fire right in front of your eyes and paired with a glass or two of incredible wine chosen by their expert Brian, it’ll be an evening to remember!
A stroll around the Sainsbury Centre’s Sculpture Park is good for the soul
In the luscious surrounds of UEA Broad is the Sainsbury Centre’s free-to-visit Sculpture Park. Spot pieces by the likes of Antony Gormley and Lynn Chadwick as you make your way along marshland trails. Then step inside this innovative art museum and see how art lives- hug a Henry Moore or become your own artwork!
A 900-year-old keep, contemporary art gallery and Victorian prison-turned-museum, there’s nowhere like Norwich Castle. Immerse yourself in medieval life, complete with reinstated floors, authentic furniture and battlement views. Stare in awe at the wonder of The Gallery of Medieval Life (in partnership with the British Museum) and discover displays spanning Romans, Egyptians, modern art and more.
Have a twist on the traditional Sunday lunch and head to Redwell Brewery’s working taproom for your roast. And this isn’t your usual roast either. It’s giant yorkies brimming with golden roast potatoes, rich homemade gravy and succulent meats- accompanied by a (very) locally brewed Redwell beer!
Unwind in The Lion’s Den riverside sauna
Tucked beneath the willows along the River Wensum, you’ll find The Lions’ Den. This local favourite is a relaxing social spot where you can unwind and recharge. Treat yourself to an al fresco sauna session beneath the trees. And if you’re brave enough, a cold plunge or two!
Mousehold Heath is where the city and nature come together. High above Norwich, wander woodland paths where flora and fauna thrive, golden leaves crunch underfoot, and wide skies open above you. Nowhere else will you get skyline views that reach from cathedral to cathedral. You won’t regret seeing the sunset from this spot
Listen to the rippling waves of Whitlingham Broad as you amble along its 2-mile trail. Take your time walking past whispering reeds and spot swans bobbing up and down on the lake. Sit and admire the view with a steaming flask to warm you up.
Plantation garden is a beautiful green oasis in the centre of our city
Paddle where medieval traders peddled with Pub and Paddle. Starting at Fye Bridge, glide along the River Wensum as it meanders past local landmarks Cow Tower, Pull’s Ferry and St James’ Mill, stopping along the way at our picturesque riverside pubs like the Ribs of Beef and Red Lion.
Plantation Garden is an oasis in the centre of our buzzing city. Tucked off Earlham Road, this Grade II listed sunken garden is home to manicured lawns and colourful blooms, woodland walkways and towering trees. Here you can admire a Victorian Gothic Fountain, climb an Italianate Terrace and discover a Victorian greenhouse beneath the towering spire of The Cathedral of St John the Baptist (head here for a slice of cake!).
At Norwich Cathedral, ancient architecture meets contemporary sculpture. Art in the Close is an outdoor exhibition that takes you to locations across Cathedral Close and into Norwich Cathedral’s magnificent cloister. Discover the lesser-known tales of this impressive Romanesque building with a free hour-long tour while you’re here.
How about a fantastic end-of-the-pier show at Cromer?
Make your way into the Broads National Park for a mooch around Coltishall. Follow the riverside village’s peaceful circular walk, before heading to the nearby Norfolk Mead for a warming Sunday lunch. Savour this feast in the hotel’s stylish surroundings next to the River Bure.
A trip to the seaside isn’t complete without crispy battered fish and fluffy chips on Cromer’s sea wall! Watch seabirds dive and waves wash over pebbled shores. Then follow with a dazzling show on Cromer Pier, where laughs, dancing and head bopping are guaranteed!
Listen to the otherworld sounds of Pensthorpe’s bio sonification garden
There’s nothing like an invigorating autumnal beach walk. Especially on the wild sands of Holkham Nature Reserve, where towering dunes punctuate sandy shores and nesting birds hop in the marshes. Get even closer to nature on Holkham Estate, where you’ll can see their gorgeous herd of fallow deer.
Lose yourself in the ethereal sounds of Pensthorpe’s Alan Partridge Sound Bath Garden. Blending into the nature reserve’s landscape, native grass and Norfolk perennials combine with art and science to create otherworldly tones that change throughout the seasons.
