The Top Hidden Gems for Shopping in Norwich

The Top Hidden Gems for Shopping in Norwich 

by Katie Thompson

Among many things, Norwich’s shopping scene is truly special. We’ve got something for every shopper- from high street heroes in Chantry Place and Castle Quarter to our own flagship department store Jarrolds to innumerable independents in the award-winning Lanes, Cathedral Quarter and Magdalen Street.  

So, sometimes it’s a good idea to get out of your comfort zone and discover somewhere new- who knows what you might find! We’ve got some seriously good lesser-known spots here in Norwich- they might even be right under your nose! And they’re the perfect stop for one-of-a–kind gifts, souvenirs or treats to yourself.

Check out our top hidden gems for shopping to visit on your next trip to Norwich!

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Country and Eastern, Bethel Street

As part of the beautiful collections of the South Asia Collection, the free-to-visit museum’s Country and Eastern shop means you can take home your own piece of the cultures of Pakistan, India, Afghanistan and more.  

If you’re an interiors enthusiast, look no further. Here you can pick up a stunning handwoven rug, block print soft furnishings, and large pieces of one-off furniture. For something smaller, there’s delicate and statement jewellery, silky kimonos, ceramic dishes and jewel-toned napkins that make the perfect gift. (We love the carved wooden blocks-turned-hooks and pretty drawer knobs!)

Open Monday – Saturday, 9.30am to 5.00pm.

Bowhill & Elliott, London Street 

Did you know Norwich is home to the only shoemakers who still make out back and sell out front? Family-run business Bowhill & Elliott, who celebrated 150 years in 2024, honour traditional techniques to create a luxurious range of slippers and velvet loafers. Enter their store and you’ll be greeted by knowledgeable and friendly staff as you explore two floors of own-brand and heritage footwear brands for both men and women. Think Penelope Chilvers and Crockett & Jones, not to mention clothing brands with that same handcrafted, made-with-longevity-in-mind ethos, like Blackhorse Lane Atelier and local Yarmouth Oilskins.

Specialising in made-to-order, slow fashion is at the heart of each pair of shoes, which you can even customise with monograms, crests and hand embroidered motifs (just look at the playful cocktail collection!). Here, it’s all about the personal touch.

Open Monday – Saturday, 9am to 5.30pm.

Dipples, Swan Lane 

As one of the longest family-run businesses in Norwich, jewellers Dipples has been a sparkling mainstay in the Lanes since 1878. With a focus on fashion-forward pieces, timeless silhouettes and contemporary classics, if you’re looking for an undeniably special watch, ring, necklace or bracelet, Dipples’ warm and welcoming customer experience will ensure you leave with the perfect gift for a loved one or to yourself.  

Their Norwich store even has an on-site workshop, where their master jeweller designs and makes bespoke items by hand, so you can own a one-off piece like no other. And for a specially curated selection of pieces, visit Dipples in Jarrolds- a coming-together of two of the city’s most recognisable family brands. 

Open Monday – Saturday, 9.30am to 5pm. 

The Sainsbury Centre Shop, UEA 

When visiting this innovative art museum, it would be rude not to browse their modern museum shop. The Sainsbury Centre shop is located right alongside their permanent collection of Living Art, where centuries old ceramics are displayed with 21st century pieces. Peruse this eye-catching range of stationery and books, fun jewellery (including by local brands like Studio Adorn) and funky homeware, including Norwich-made prints and- our favourite- miniatures of their iconic Walking Hippopotamus statue! 

And if, like us, you love a museum shop, be sure to check out the Museum of Norwich on Bridewell Alley (Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 4.30pm, no need to buy a ticket to shop)! Look out for collaborations with local artists like Petra Boase in their corner pop-up shop throughout the year, too!

Open Tuesday – Friday, 9am to 6pm and Saturday & Sunday, 10am – 5pm.

The Bear Shop, Elm Hill 

Heading down the picturesque, cobbled street of Elm Hill, you’ll find it hard not to be drawn to the glowing windows of The Bear Shop. This unique independent is for bear lovers of all ages. Teddies line every corner, shelf and window space, enticing you in with their smiling fuzzy faces. If you’re looking for a new furry friend or you’re a serious bear collector, here you’ll find brands from Charlie Bears to Steiff Bears to Clemens, Teddy Hermann and Dean’s.

Open Monday –Saturday, 10am – 5pm.

Atwin & Co, Bridewell Alley 

If you’re looking for sustainable and locally crafted clothing, jewellery and lifestyle pieces, Atwin is for you. With rails of colourful and classic natural fibre garments for men and women, handmade jewellery (from the shop’s owner and those that run it) and carefully crafted accessories, these are pieces that will last the test of time and ones you’ll feel good in! Our top picks include ceramics pink ceramics by East Creations, Yetton’s pastel knits and Clement House’s stylish scarves.

So why not support local makers by treating yourself to a one-of-a-kind print, sweet-smelling candle or Norfolk-made perfume?

Open Monday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm and Sunday, 11am – 3pm.

St Saviour’s Yard, Magdalen Street 

Halfway up Magdalen Street, you’ll encounter bustling container hub St Saviour’s Yard, home to a fantastic array of unique, Norwich-based makers, creatives and businesses. Amble past sunshine-yellow and sky-blue stores, enticed in to peruse perfectly framed prints (check out Pinch Prints and Soodle Street), carefully crafted candles, curated book selections, fresh plants and tasty goodies.  

We suggest soaking up the community spirit and stopping for a slice of East Dough pizza or a fresh Sød pastry, accompanied by a pint from Sir Toby’s in the sunshine. 

Check out St Saviour’s Yard’s directory for individual businesses’ opening times.

St Gregory’s Antiques & Collectables, St Gregory’s Green and Looses Emporium, Magdalen Street 

You might have guessed that Norwich is known for its amazing medieval churches, and there’s more to them than meets the eye! Enter St Gregory’s church. Here, you’ll be met with a treasure trove of vintage fashion, trinkets and curios- where you’re just as likely to pick up a retro camera as antique glassware. 

Open Monday – Friday, 10am – 5pm, Saturday, 10am – 6pm and Sunday, 11am – 4pm.

And on Magdalen Street, Looses Emporium’s large collection of vintage, retro, antique and modern furniture makes it the largest collectables and antique shop in Norwich. It’s not hard to spend a few hours here browsing their 3 floors of special finds, especially with the knowledge the actual Bargain Hunt team have filmed here! 

Open Monday – Friday, 10am – 5.30pm, Saturday, 9am – 6pm and Sunday, 10am – 4pm.

Special Mentions 

And if you’ve already ticked off these hidden gems, here are a few more to add to your list: 

• The Book Hive, London Street and Bookbugs and Dragon Tales, Timber Hill: carefully chosen curations of books for adults and children respectively.
• The Garnet Stores & Supplies, Market Place: functional, locally sourced and visually attractive homeware and gifts.
• Shopkeeper, Upper St Giles: menswear and lifestyle with a focus on quality and craftsmanship.
• Pascale, London Street: lovely homewares and chic lifestyle, including ceramics, candles, coffee-table books and natural fibre clothing.
• Pedlars Vintage, St Georges Street: quirky and timeless vintage fashion for men and women.