Norwich, UK: An English Hidden Gem
Curated By
Liz Schmittgens
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Family Travel
Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel
Norwich
England
History
Outdoors
Nightlife
Curator’s statement
Norwich is one of the first European cities I've visited without an American within earshot. It is said to be the most intact medieval city in England and it is an UNESCO City of Literature. Take advantage this city with a slower pace. Book enough days to leisurely walk along the River Wensum and get your fill of classic British pubs. Since Americans are rare visitors, the locals will strike up a conversation with you as soon as they hear you speak.
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Norwich, UK
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Things to do in Norwich, UK
Paddle on the River Wensum. The current is so light you can go in either direction.
Walk up Mousehold Heath for a spectacular view of the Norwich Cathedral.
Visit Plantation Gardens and appreciate its multi-tiered and meticulously maintained beauty.
There are many wonderful city parks: Eaton Park, Waterloo Park and Chapelfield Gardens.
Also just outside of Norwich, you'll find BeWILDerwood — a theme-park based on books by local author, Tom Blofeld. It's filled with treehouses, mazes, swings and slides to be enjoyed by kids and adults.
When you're ready for a few quiet moments to yourself, take a class at Norwich Yoga Central or Norwich Yoga Tree. Follow-up with a manicure/pedicure at Market Nail Bar and then shop the Norwich Lanes. This year-round market is home to over 300 independent shops.
Places to eat & drink in Norwich, UK
All the pubs! Favorites are The Stanley, The Rosebery and Ribs of Beef. Sunday Roasts are very famous here. If you search Reddit threads, you will find many arguments about who has the best Sunday Roast. Wherever you land on Sunday, make sure you call ahead and come hungry.
The Ivy House - The decor alone is worth a visit for a special occasion meal or just afternoon tea. The Ivy House serves up delicious food with gin drinks.
Bread Source - This is a great place to pop in for a sausage roll or, my favorite, their mushroom and bean tart. My daughter loved their croissants!
The Street Cafe - Another great place for savory brunch and breakfast. The smoked salmon savory waffle is amazing. Pair it with a flat white and their bloody mary spiced ketchup.
The Feed - If you visit Waterloo Park, stop into The Feed for a breakfast bap (sandwich). The park has wisteria-covered trellises, volunteer-run gardens, wildflower recovery areas, a playground and a splash park. The Feed has a great menu and boasts both a quiet area for reading or work, plus an upper balcony dining area.
What would be a visit to England without mentioning the fish and chips! This is another source of arguments among locals, but our favorite was the fish from Star Fish Bar and the chips from The Fish and Chip Shop.
Need to Know
Looking for more travel inspo? Check out my guide, Zurich Like a Local.
Travel Advisor
Liz Schmittgens
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to England.