Cobbles, cocktails and the Cathedral.
12hours in Norwich, Norfolk
The county of Norfolk has always been a favourite destination for many holiday makers over the years, with it’s vast coastlines, small seaside towns and flat landscapes for miles around it is no wonder why it is so popular. Alongside all the nature is the heart of Norfolk, Norwich. A fine city, with history dating back to the Anglo-Saxons. The once named ‘Norvic’ was crowned the capital of East Anglia.
Today the city has a great hustle and bustle to it with locals, visitors and students all exploring what the city has to offer. I was once one of those students, enjoying the city and all it had to offer before making it my permanent home after I had graduated in 2016.
There is so much to do in this quaint city it’s easy to miss a lot of it. So here’s just one of many guides, to spending 12 hours in Norwich, featuring the cobbles of Elm Hill, numerous cocktail bars and Norwich Cathedral.
Whether you’re catching the train into the city or just passing through on a North Norfolk road-trip the city is easy to access. There are nearby park and ride bus stations located on the outer ring road or catch the train in from many destinations. If you catch the train it’s only a short walk into the centre but do be warned it is uphill most of the way.
Once in the centre there are many different things to do. If shopping is for you then head off to Norwich Lanes to find some great little boutiques and small but amazing food stops. Grab coffee at Strangers or a single slice of pizza from Chef Ron’s. A favourite Norwich store which I adore is Lisa Angel. It’s a great place if you need a little present, they stock great small gift ideas and delicate pieces of jewellery. Wander up the high street and find old classics or grab your retail fix in either shopping centre nearby.
If shopping isn’t for you visit the historical side of the city by visiting the Norwich Cathedral in Tombland, take it slow as you explore the grounds and take a guided tour through the historical site. Not far from the Cathedral is Elm Hill. Walk amongst the cobbles and feel like you’re going back in time. For film nerds, Jingle Jangle, the Netflix Christmas film which came out in 2020, was partially filmed here. Lastly there is Norwich Castle which is not to be missed. It is a great place for all the family to explore and learn a little more about Norwich and East Anglia’s history. Both of these options are great no matter the weather.
With all that sight-seeing and walking it can sure create an appetite. There are plenty of small independent restaurants across the centre alongside multiple chains. Here is a little list of places to eat which are unique to Norwich.
Brunch is a great way to start the day whether with friends or alone. Get your energy levels up with a stop at Cafe 33 on Exchange Street. A great stop for all in the city and can be super busy. It is first come first serve for a table so be prepared to wait outside sometimes until a table is free. But they have the best American pancakes with greek yogurt, mixed fruit and honey!
If you are in need of a little snack instead but not sure what you fancy head to Norwich Market for a huge range of freshly made light bites and snacks, both sweet and savoury. A few of my favourite bits are Hirata Buns from Bun Box or a sweet snack from either Bread Source or And Eat It stalls.
Now you’re fuelled for the rest of the afternoon, take a stroll along the river starting by Norwich University of the Arts on St. George’s Street. Follow the city of Norwich riverside walk plaques and enjoy the peaceful nature as you step away from urban scenery. There are a few interesting places to see as you follow the path, St James Mill, Cow Bell Tower, Bishop Bridge and Pull’s Ferry. Once you’re at Pull’s Ferry follow the trail back through the Cathedral gardens and back into Tombland for evening drinks and food.
Pre-dinner drinks in the city can last for hours with how many great stops there are for wine and cocktails. Whilst in Tombland visit Copa Cubana if you’re missing the bright bubbly scene of Brazil or fancy a slightly quieter mid-week drink, stop by Mr. Postels for a sweet creative cocktail.Or stroll down St. Benedicts street as many pubs and bars have great quirks and offer a great range of cocktails and craft drinks.
For the last stop in Norwich before departing this fine city has to be for a wonderful evening meal in one of Norwich’s most independent restaurants. My top two would be Jorge’s, a small Portugese restaurant tucked off Red Lion Street for a chilled evening or Rooftop Gardens on Rose Lane. Both offer incredible food and drinks but depending on whether you want a quiet date night or busserling environment depends on where I’d go. During the summer it’s great to watch the sunset with the Cathedral in view whilst sipping on some tasty cocktails at Rooftop.
