A vibrant community history museum exploring the city’s fascinating past.
The Museum of Norwich tells the city’s story from its early beginnings to now. Housed in an ancient building dating from the 1300s, the building has been a medieval merchant’s house, a house of correction and a shoe factory before becoming a museum in 1925.
Visitors can explore Norwich’s industrial past through ten galleries, featuring engaging, object-rich displays, interactive experiences and captivating people’s stories. Learn about Norwich’s renowned textile and trendsetting shoe trade. Admire beautiful Norwich shawls, a restored Jacquard loom and the world’s first wire netting machine. Discover the surprising and more familiar industries made in this fine city, from celebration crackers to aircraft, and chocolate to everyone’s favourite yellow condiment, Colman’s Mustard.
A highlight of the museum is a recreated pharmacist’s shop with over 2,500 objects, including mysterious concoctions and potions. You can also learn about the building’s past as the city’s prison, the Bridewell, its iconic flint wall and join one of our monthly tours of the magnificent undercroft.
After exploring, relax in the beautiful courtyard and browse the museum shop for stylish souvenirs and locally crafted goods. With step-free access to all the galleries, family-friendly activities throughout the year, and hands-on exhibits, the Museum of Norwich is a must visit for both locals and visitors wanting to explore the city’s fascinating history.
