What to Do in Norwich in Summer

What to Do in Norwich in Summer

by Katie Thompson 

In a city where nature is intwined with our everyday, there’s nowhere better to make the most of summer than Norwich. Embrace a slower pace of life, soaking up golden rays as you enjoy meals alfresco or starting the day under hazy blue skies getting out onto the river. 

Whether it’s savouring the weekends as we welcome lighter nights and longer evenings or immersing yourself in the pretty surrounds of Norfolk countryside, this is the time to head outdoors and taste our city’s flavour in the company of the ones you love. 

Here’s our guide to Norwich in summer!

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Relish the Weekend 

Wander Bishop’s House Open Garden

Open for just eight Sundays throughout the summer, Bishop’s House Garden is a haven of rainbow-hued blooms, striking greenery and quintessential English lawns. Every date supports a different local charity, you can admire attractive gardens, luscious plants and stop for a spot of tea and homemade cake on the lawn, watched over by Norwich Cathedral’s towering spire.

Pub & Paddle on the River Wensum 

When the sun’s beating down, the draw of the river is strong. And what could be more peaceful than paddling along the rippling Wensum, striking blue skies overhead? Glide beneath the dappled shade of weeping willows and moor up at a selection of Norwich’s most popular waterside pubs for a crisp pint along the way with Pub & Paddle.

Or Motor into The Broads National Park 

Pack a picnic and put away your phone. Hop aboard Bishy Barney Boats and take your time motoring along the River Yare into the verdant fringes of the Broads National Park. You’ll pass by picturesque riverside villages, beneath soaring birds of prey and alongside bobbing grebe, coots and even flitting kingfishers. (We recommend a pitstop at traditional Surlingham pub The Ferry House.)

Play Padel Under the Sun 

Make the most of balmy mornings and hazy skies before the sun starts beating down at Pace Padel. Whether you’re already a padel pro or want to practice your serve, soak up the energy of this popular sport in Pace Padel’s state-of-the-art outdoor courts before refulelling with a moreish bake by the Goat Shed!

See Live Theatre in a Grade-II Listed Garden 

Surrounded by the beauty of Norwich’s hidden oasis, get lost in live performance at Plantation Garden. As dusk falls, bring along a blanket and be transported into the tales of Jane Austen’s Gothic classic, Northanger Abbey, and the joyful silliness of an all-female take on Shakespeare’s As You Like It.

Savour Sundays with Norwich Summer Sessions 

Unwind every Sunday afternoon in August with Norwich Summer Sessions. With a line-up that features local music artists, captivating street performers and vibrant bands you’ll want to sway your hips to, this free street entertainment is the perfect excuse for a few hours mooching around the City of Stories.

Embrace Light-Filled Evenings 

Savour a Scoop of Italian Gelato 

When you’re craving a sweet post-work or after-dinner treat, stop by Cafe Gelato for a scoop (or two or three) of authentic Italian gelato. Open until 6pm, opt for classic favourites or mouthwatering combinations, from zingy lemon sorbet to fresh Norfolk strawberry, indulgent dark chocolate to light and creamy tiramisu. 

Soak Up the Sun in a Buzzing Beer Garden 

After an evening stroll around Whitlingham Country Park, where the sunset sparkles on the water, head to Redwell Brewery for a locally brewed beer straight from the taproom and a slice of stone baked pizza- you can’t go wrong with a fresh margherita- in their buzzing beer garden.

Head to New Heights with a Rooftop Cocktail 

Soak up every last drop of sunshine, cocktail in hand, on Gonzo’s rooftop terrace. Gather a group of your closest friends and sip on a tart Aperol, sweet Hugo spritz or zingy Paloma (there are plenty of non-alcoholic tastes to try too!) as twilight falls, the stars begin to twinkle and you feel the warmth of glow fairy lights and good company.

Sip and Sup at Melville’s Monthly Clubs 

Take a seat at Melville & Sons’ elevated monthly wine and supper clubs. From intimate, four-course dinners on long-tables showcasing the highest quality English produce (menus feature the likes of Cromer Crab crumpet and braised lamb shank) to relaxed guided tastings of curated wines (accompanied by charcuterie), this will be an evening to remember.

Norfolk Wanderlust 

Crabbing by Day, Dancing by Night on Cromer Pier 

A summer’s day at the beach will take you from day to night on Cromer Pier. While the sun’s up, park yourself on this iconic landmark, reaching down to catch the town’s eponymous crustacean. Then, when evening falls, it’s all about their Sunset Sessions and Ibiza-inspired sounds- be transported to the epitome of a summer soundtrack with live DJs. 

Share Plates at a Whisky Distillery 

Not only England’s first whisky distillery in 100 years, The English Distillery is home to The Grain Kitchen, a contemporary restaurant at the heart of sun-drenched Norfolk countryside. While away your afternoon under wide white parasols with a selection of sharing plates- think whipped ricotta and tempura broccoli, crispy squid, and truffle fries, followed by a crème brûlée with a twist of their English Whisky ‘PX’ liqueur.

Glamp Under Norfolk’s Starry Sky 

Far away from the lights of the city, Pensthorpe is a sprawling 700-acre nature reserve, home to thriving wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. In summer, you can camp and glamp under clear Norfolk night skies. Marvel at the celestial beauty above and embrace a sense of wonder.