Embarking on a Self-Guided Norwich Walking Tour is a fantastic way to get acquainted with the medieval city.
From the mighty, hill-topping castle to green spaces tucked into quiet corners to cobblestone lanes drenched in history, Norwich is best discovered on foot.
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During our monthlong stay, we wandered all over the city; exploring is definitely one of the Best Norwich Things To Do!
We marveled at the historic landmarks and sought out hidden gems. In the end, we clocked quite a few miles as we navigated all the nooks and crannies.
Based on our personal favorite places to see, we created this fun self-guided walk of Norwich, UK for fellow travelers!
About Our Self-Guided Norwich Walking Tour
The outlined walking tour route is about 5 miles and will take approximately 3-5 hours to complete.
We organized the sights in a circular route that begins and ends near the train station (which is perfect if you are planning to spend one day in Norwich). That said, as it’s a loop, you can start at any point.
For walking directions, we have provided a link for each highlighted attraction location. Later, we share a map marked with all the sights for an overview.
Looking for the PDF version of this tour – without the advertisements? You can purchase it here for less than a cup of coffee!
What You Will Need for Your Norwich Walk
Before you set off on your Norwich sightseeing tour, make sure you are prepared with these must-have items.
Sturdy Shoes: Good travel shoes are a must on the cobblestoned lanes. I wear these lightweight and versatile trainers.
Travel Camera: We use a DSLR Canon Rebel for snapping photos. It’s a great camera for budget-minded travelers.
Weather Gear: A raincoat or umbrella are always a good idea (it is England after all!) – but in the summer don’t forget the sunscreen.
Day Pack: Carry a good travel day bag that is big enough to stow everything you will need; we like these backpacks.
Wireless Connectivity: For navigation, you will need a connection. If you’re traveling from abroad, upgrade to an international data plan, get an eSim or invest in a Pocket WiFi device – like GlocalMe.
Norwich Walking Tour: Self-Guided and Free
For a small city, Norwich certainly packs a punch. So, lace up your walking shoes and let’s get right to it!
#1 Dragon Hall at the National Center for Writing
MAP. Begin your free walking tour in Norwich at Dragon Hall. A magnificent medieval relic, it was built in 1427 by a wealthy local merchant.
The exterior view reveals original timber used in the construction…but the inside is even more impressive.
The upstairs hall – an 85-foot-long open space that was used to store and sell goods – was constructed from more than 1,000 English Oaks. Most interestingly, carved dragons were used to decorated the spandrels (but only one remains).
The building now houses the National Centre for Writing and it is free to visit, but the opening hours are quite limited.
#2 St Julian’s Church and Shrine
MAP. St. Julian’s has a long history – from its 11th century origins to destruction during World War II to its reincarnation in 1953.
It was painstakingly put back together in an effort to preserve the memory of Lady Julian of Norwich.
Born in the 14th century, Julian suffered a brush with death that evoked visions of God. On her recovery, she became a recluse and locked herself in a cell attached to the church.
It was in this room – cut off from the rest of the world – that she wrote her book, Revelations of Divine Love. It is the first known book to be written in English by a woman.
Today, you can step inside the quaint church and the recreated space where she lived. It is free to enter.
#3 All Saints Antiques Centre
MAP. During the Middle Ages, Norwich was home to an astounding 58 parish churches. Today, 31 of these houses of worship still stand – although not all are used for religious purposes.
As is the case for All Saints, which is the next stop on our Norwich city tour. The 15th century church fell to disuse in the 1970s. After housing various organizations, it was transformed into a multi-seller antique bazaar.
While we enjoyed perusing the bric-a-brac, we were equally enthralled by the preserved stained-glass windows and ancient architecture.
#4 The Gardeners Arms (aka Murderers Pub)
MAP. A historic, family-run pub, The Gardeners Arms – better known by locals as The Murderers – has been pouring pints for more than 180 years. It’s one of the oldest pubs in the city…and it comes complete with a gruesome tale.
The dreadful nickname dates to 1895 when the landlady’s daughter was savagely murdered here by her estranged husband. Inside, newspapers, photographs and items relating to the event hang on the walls.
#5 Norwich Castle
MAP. Next up on our Norwich, UK walking tour is the city’s famed castle. Designed by the Normans in the 11th century as a royal palace, it is brimming with history.
Henry I spent Christmas there in 1121 and the keep served as the County Gaol (jail) during the Middle Ages.
Then, in the 1800s, the exterior was replaced with fine Bath stone. Finally, in 1894, the castle was transformed into a marvelous museum.
The large gallery sits within the old Victorian prison and the displays cover a vast array of collections – from natural history to contemporary art. A ticket is required.
#6 The Royal Arcade
MAP. A fashionable covered shopping lane still in use today, the Royal Arcade first opened in 1899.
Designed by renowned architect, George Skipper, it features a mashup of Victorian and Art Nouveau styles. Especially notable are the elegant tiles of colorful peacocks and elaborate hanging lanterns.
The arcade marks the heart of the Norwich shopping district and itself houses a number of independent retailers.
#7 Norwich Market
MAP. One of the oldest and largest outdoor markets in England, Norwich Market is nothing short of spectacular.
Traders have been pedaling goods on this square for more than 1,000 years. It long played a key role in the city’s successful textile industry and has been essential to the local economy.
Today, it’s a tight grid of shops under a colorfully striped canopy – and the food offerings are the main attraction. It’s one of our favorite Places To Eat in Norwich.
Although it is best known for its lunchtime food stalls, you can also find vendors selling household goods, fresh flowers and clothing. One stall – Sir Toby’s Beers – even serves as an open-air pub!
#8 Jarrolds Department Store
MAP. A local, family-owned business rooted in shopkeeping, Jarrolds first opened in 1770 as a drapery and grocery store in Suffolk.
The business moved to Norwich in 1823 and expanded to printing operations. In the early 1900s, this luxury department store was built under the direction of George Skipper.
The extravagant building hosts five floors of fashion, beauty and home décor. True to their past, each level maintains an eatery.
The basement food hall is not to be missed – but be sure to go to the top floor Pantry Restaurant for their legendary scones!
#9 Norwich Guildhall and City Hall
MAP. The next stop on our free Norwich walking tour is the dazzling 15th century Guildhall, which is one of the finest medieval city halls in all of England.
The intricate exterior boasts Norwich’s signature Flint stone. Inside, there is a preserved Victorian courtroom, an oak-paneled Council Chamber and remains of an earlier tollhouse.
For centuries, the Guildhall served as the center of local government – hosting offices, courts, a prison and a chapel – until the new City Hall opened in 1938. Tours are offered, but require a ticket.
The new City Hall – right next door and recognizable by its soaring Art Deco clock tower (MAP)– is fronted by a 365-foot-long balcony (the longest in England) and two heraldic lions.
#10 St Peter Mancroft Church
MAP. During medieval times, Norwich was England’s second-largest city. Thriving on the wool and textile trade, residents acquired massive wealth.
Eager to display their status, citizens banded together in the 15th century to fund the massive St. Peter Mancroft Church. Free to visit, we highly recommend stepping inside the opulent space.
Highlights are the wooden ceiling with carved angels, the stained-glass artwork in the East Window and the baptismal font with a wooden canopy.
#11 The Forum
MAP. When the Central Library was destroyed by fire in 1994, it was replaced with the ultra-modern, multi-use Forum.
The glass-fronted, hangar-like building houses the Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library, which is inclusive of the American Library dedicated to the USAAF.
Also on site are the BBC studios, shops, eateries and a display of rotating exhibits in the atrium. Additionally (and some might say most importantly), it has clean and free public bathrooms!
#12 The South Asia Collection Museum
MAP. Perhaps one of the most unusual places to visit in Norwich, the South Asia Collection displays fascinating relics and artworks from the southern region of Asia.
The treasures were assembled over decades by a local couple, who in 2010 created this space for long-term preservation.
More than 10,000 objects – from furniture to traditional crafts to paintings – are among the collection. Equally intriguing is that the museum is housed in the Old Skating Rink.
The Victorian building, which features a wooden vaulted ceiling, opened in 1876. For the price of one schilling, roller skaters glided to music provided by live bands and organists.
Today, it is completely free to visit, so momentarily pause your walking tour of Norwich to check it out!
#13 Chapelfield Gardens
MAP. A welcome escape from the bustle of the city, Chapelfield Gardens is a leafy park with shaded benches, play areas for kids and a bandstand.
Over time, the land has been part of church grounds, used for archery training and served as a burial site for victims of the Great Plague. In 1880, the space was redeveloped as ornamental gardens.
BONUS: Coffeeshop Stop
MAP. If you are in need of a mid-walk boost, depart the park via Cleveland Road and turn left onto Upper St. Giles Street.
Pass by St. Giles Church (which can trace its origins to 1386) and pop into one of the chic cafes on the street – like Bread Source or the beautiful St. Giles Pantry.
#14 St John the Baptist Cathedral
MAP. Designed in the Victorian Gothic Revival style in the late 1800s (and completed in 1910), St. John the Baptist is the city’s Catholic cathedral. It’s a must-see on Norwich tours because it’s exquisite!
Funded by Henry Fitzalan-Howard, 15th Duke of Norfolk, the church boasts sublime stained-glass windows and sophisticated stonework.
Visitors are invited in for free – and there are Tower Tours available, as well. The gardens, which provide herbs, fruits and vegetables for the café in the Narthex, are also open to the public.
Quick Detour: Plantation Garden
MAP. A true Norwich gem, Plantation Garden is a superb green space situated within an abandoned chalk quarry and worth a look if you have the time.
Established in 1857 by a local furniture maker, the sunken garden is a delightful blend of Gothic, Italianate and Victorian elements.
With picturesque walkways, elevated promenades, vibrant flower beds, a cascading fountain and numerous follies, it’s a place of serenity. A donation (£2 during our visit) is requested for entry.
#15 Norwich Lanes: Pottergate and St. Benedict’s
A tangle of cobbled alleys lined with medieval architecture, the Norwich Lanes district is one of our favorite places to wander. We feel walking down these two parallel, east-west lanes is a must-do!
Pottergate
MAP. Once where the city’s potters lived and worked, Pottergate retains an old-time vibe. The narrow, cobbled lane features pastel-painted timber houses that are picture-perfect.
We believe the most impressive are #93 and #95. The salmon pink corner house most likely dates to the 17th century.
Next door, the red-brick house was built in the 18th century and served as an office for a textile manufacturer.
Continue your Norwich self-guided walking tour by wandering up Ten Bells Lane to…
St. Benedicts Street
MAP. Serving as the epicenter of the wool trade during the textile heyday, St. Benedict’s is full of classic charm and vibrant color.
While bits of the past remain, today this artistic community is sensationally spirited with indie shops, quirky eateries and a well-established music scene.
Pop into one of the long-time record shops (like Soundclash), check out Cookes Band Instruments (established in 1965) or stop by the Norwich Arts Center (they often host free exhibitions).
With ample time, duck down St. Gregory’s Alley to find St Gregory’s Antiques and Collectables, which is housed in an old church.
#16 Strangers’ Hall
MAP. Dating to the 14th century, Strangers’ Hall was built as a distinguished residence. For centuries it served as a home to mayors and elite merchants.
It bears the marks of its many inhabitants who remodeled and expanded the prestigious Tudor house throughout the years.
The dwelling earned its name during the 16th century. It was then that Dutch refugees escaping Spanish Catholic rulers fled to Norwich, bringing their weaving skills with them.
Thomas Sotherton, who lived here and was serving as the town mayor at the time, was a key component in bringing skilled refugees to the city.
In the early 1900s, Strangers’ Hall opened as a museum and is still dedicated to preserving the local history.
A ticket is required for entry, but you can get a good look at the exterior of the house for free by passing through the archway and into the courtyard.
#17 Maddermarket Theater
MAP. Housed in a former 18th century Catholic chapel with a barrel ceiling, this small space was deemed desirable for theatrical performances due to its excellent acoustics.
In 1933, the intimate theater became the first in the world to stage all 37 Shakespeare plays under one producer.
The theater’s name is derived from the land’s prior use as a medieval marketplace for ‘madder’ plants. Known for their red dye, the plants were prized during the height of the textile industry.
#18 Norwich Lanes East End
MAP. A captivating area that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, the quaint streets on the east end of the Norwich Lanes district are utterly appealing.
Most notable are Lobster Lane, Bedford Street, London Street, Swan Lane and Bridewell Alley.
While there are a few attractions along the route, the real reason we delve into this enclave is for the experience.
From the Maddermarket Theatre, stroll up Lobster Lane. The one-block street got its name from the 18th century Lobster Inn.
Continue along Bedford Street, one of the city’s top historic shopping lanes – currently with a mix of old and new structures, most of which still house stores.
The street ends at the old National Provincial Bank. The 1920s building is distinctive for its grandiose columns and rising bell tower.
No longer a bank, it’s home to the Cozy Club restaurant. (Step inside to see the striking glass-domed ceiling and old vault.)
Now, wander down London Street (circling around to your right). This stretch became the first pedestrianized shopping street in the UK in 1967.
Turn right on Swan Lane, another pedestrianized thoroughfare that can trace its history to the 13th century.
At the top of Swan, zigzag onto Bridewell Alley. The dominating feature of the slender alley is the tower of St. Andrew’s Church, but the building at #5 is a true gem.
Dating to the 14th century, it once reigned as the grandest residence in the city. By the late 1500s it was converted into a prison – and in the 19th century, it served as a tobacco factory, leather warehouse and shoe workshop.
Today, it’s an enthralling museum that tells the story of Norwich. Tickets are required for entry.
#19 Princes Street
MAP. The pleasantly curving Princes Street is simply beguiling and is one of the best places to see on a walking tour of Norwich Old Town.
Highly regarded for its half-timbered houses with hanging flowers, it’s regularly touted as one of the prettiest streets in Norwich.
Of particular note are the preserved houses at #16 and #18, which date to medieval times and were restored with original features in the 1930s.
#20 Tombland
MAP. Tombland marks the historic heart of ancient Norwich. Prior to the Norman’s arrival in 1067, it was the town’s bustling center of trade and daily life.
In fact, the open space that once hosted the marketplace is how the area got it name. Tombland means ‘open ground’ or ‘empty space’ in Old English.
Shops (like the dusty Tombland Bookshop) and pubs (like the cracking Edith Cavell) are worth a peek – but the best thing to see is the crooked Augustine Steward House (MAP).
Built by a wealthy merchant in the early 1500s, the timber-framed house seems to lean and bulge at gravity-defying angles.
Directly across the street from the nearly falling-down house is a memorial dedicated to Edith Cavell, who lived near Norwich.
A nurse during WWI, she selflessly facilitated the escape of hundreds of allied soldiers from German-occupied Belgium.
#21 Erpingham Gate
MAP. One of two remarkable gates that lead into the Norwich Cathedral complex, the Erpingham Gate was built in the year 1420.
It features ornate stone carvings of 24 saints – and in the niche above the arch is a statue of Sir Thomas Erpingham.
A man of national prominence during the late 14th century, he was the gate’s main benefactor. Before you pass through, note how the arch perfectly frames the west cathedral entrance.
#22 Norwich Cathedral
MAP. The crème-de-la-crème of Norwich sightseeing, the Cathedral Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity (as it’s formally called) is truly breathtaking.
Building commenced in 1096. At the time of its completion in 1101, it ranked as the largest building in East Anglia, comprising 10% of the city’s total area.
The cloisters date to 1297 (they are the fourth largest in England) and the soaring spire reaches a height of 315 feet (making it the second tallest in England).
The interior is equally impressive (mostly for the sheer size of it!). The ancient Norman Romanesque architecture is absolutely astounding.
Of particular interest is the mesmerizing vaulted ceiling, which boasts more than 1,000 stone-carved bosses depicting bible scenes.
#23 Ethelbert Gate
MAP. The older of the two cathedral close entrances, Ethelbert Gate was built in 1316.
It replaced an earlier version that we destroyed in a 1272 riot between local citizens and monks. The new gate was erected by the people as atonement for their unruly behavior.
It is topped with a chapel (that is unfortunately not open to the public). On the side facing the cathedral, you can see geometric flint flushwork (a Norfolk specialty that incorporates freestone into local flint).
The opposite side on Tombland is decorated with stone carvings of beasts. This unusual cast of characters for an entry point to cathedral grounds are thought to have been a warning to the townspeople.
#24 Maid’s Head Hotel
MAP. Claiming to be the oldest hotel in the UK, the Maid’s Head can trace its history in hospitality to the 1090s. It was then that the palace of the first Norman Bishop of Norwich was built at this location.
The first known inn on the site – called the Murtel Fish Tavern – was noted in records in 1287. The name changed to the Maids Head in 1472.
The oldest parts of the current building date to the 15th and 16th centuries – and it’s believed that Queen Elizabeth I stayed here during her reign.
#25 Elm Hill
MAP. Elm Hill is the most famous street in Norwich – and it’s easy to see why. The endearing cobbled lane looks plucked right out of medieval times and it’s an essential stretch of your self-guided Norwich tour!
In existence since the beginning of the 13th century, the street was devasted by fire in 1507. The only building to survive was The Britons Arms (where today they make delicious toasties!).
The homes on Elm Street were rebuilt in the Tudor style – featuring half-timbered houses with steeply pitched roofs. And not much has changed since.
So little, in fact, Elm Hill is touted as being the most well-preserved medieval street in the whole of the United Kingdom.
The Strangers Club – a private, men’s-only social space – is particularly stunning with its timber-and-brick façade and leaded windows.
#26 Quayside
MAP. Marking the site of the city’s historic port, Quayside stretches from Fye Bridge to Whitefriars Bridge.
It was a hub of imports, exports and industrial activity on the River Wensum from Saxon times to the early 20th century. Today, Quayside is a place for leisurely strolls and quiet relaxation.
The warehouses have been replaced with colorful abodes – with the only nod to the past being the art installation of historical cargo.
#27 Adam and Eve Pub
MAP. An iconic pub situated just off the river, Adam and Eve boasts a long history. A tavern has stood on the site since at least 1241, making it the oldest pub in the city.
At the time of its origin, Benedictine monks owned and operated the brewhouse. They likely served their beer to laborers building the cathedral and to patients at the nearby Great Hospital.
With low ceilings, exposed wooden beams and snug corners, it’s a cozy place to hoist a pint in Norwich!
#28 Riverside Walk: Cow Tower and Pull’s Ferry
MAP. End your tour of Norwich by walking along the River Wensum. It has played a vital role in Norwich history and is still ecologically important today.
A paved walking path follows the curving waterway to two historic sites: the Cow Tower and Pull’s Ferry.
The Cow Tower is currently in a state of ruins, but it was a strategic point in the city’s defense when it was built in the late 1300s.
The red brick stronghold, which stands at a height of 48 feet, was constructed separate from the city walls. The door is gated and locked, but it’s possible to peer inside.
As you continue to meander along the riverside, you will come to Pull’s Ferry (MAP), one of the most beautiful buildings in the city of Norwich.
The 15th century watergate once straddled a canal that was used for transporting building materials to the cathedral. It was long ago filled in, but the picturesque arch and stone ferry house remain.
Map of Norwich Walking Tour Route
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of the Norwich walking tour map below.
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