Historic Heart to Hidden Gems: Norwich in 5 Days

Discover endless family fun in Norwich, where history meets excitement!

19 July 2023

Norwich, a vibrant city in eastern England, is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip. With its rich history, stunning medieval architecture, and abundance of kid-friendly attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the famous Norwich Castle, take a boat ride along the scenic Norfolk Broads, or visit the interactive Norwich Science Festival for a fun and educational experience.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Historic Heart

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Grosvenor Fish Bar, an iconic fish and chip shop with a quirky twist.
  • Wander through the cobbled streets of Elm Hill, lined with charming medieval buildings and antique shops.
  • Immerse yourself in history at Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery, which showcases a fascinating collection of local artifacts.
  • Grab a bite at The Waffle House, where you can indulge in delicious sweet and savory waffles.
  • Visit the Norwich Cathedral, a magnificent Norman masterpiece that will leave you in awe of its grandeur.
  • End your day with a nightcap at The Birdcage, a quirky pub with live music and a vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss their tasty selection of local craft beers.
Day 2

Riverside Strolls and Cultural Encounters

  • Start your day with a leisurely walk along the picturesque River Wensum, taking in the tranquility of the water and the surrounding nature.
  • Explore the Norwich Lanes, a labyrinth of narrow streets bursting with independent boutiques, vintage shops, and charming cafes.
  • Check out the Norwich Market, one of the largest open-air markets in England, offering an array of delicious street food and unique crafts.
  • Discover the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, home to an outstanding collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • Treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner at Grosvenor's Fish Bar & Restaurant, offering a delectable menu that truly showcases the best of British seafood.
  • Catch a show at the Norwich Theatre Royal, an iconic venue that hosts a variety of productions, from West End classics to cutting-edge performances.
Day 3

Family Fun and Outdoor Adventures

  • Spend a fun-filled morning at Bewilderwood, an award-winning adventure park set in a magical woodland, where children can explore treetop walkways and take part in exciting storytelling sessions.
  • Enjoy a picnic at Eaton Park, a beautiful green space with a boating lake, play areas, and exquisite gardens.
  • Visit Banham Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals from around the world. Get up close and personal with giraffes, tigers, and meerkats!
  • Treat your taste buds to a mouthwatering meal at Namaste India, a family-friendly restaurant serving up authentic Indian cuisine that will transport your senses.
  • Take a scenic boat trip along the Norfolk Broads, England's largest protected wetland, and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the countryside.
  • End the day at The Playhouse, where you can catch a family-friendly theatrical production or hilarious stand-up comedy.
Day 4

Literary Delights and Retail Therapy

  • Start your day at The Book Hive, an independent bookstore filled with a carefully curated selection of books that will delight any bibliophile.
  • Visit the Dragon Hall, a medieval trading hall that takes you back in time with its stunning architecture and interactive exhibitions.
  • Explore the Norwich Cathedral Close, a tranquil area dotted with beautiful gardens and historical buildings.
  • Indulge in a shopping spree at intu Chapelfield, a modern shopping center offering a wide range of high-street brands and designer labels.
  • Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea at The Assembly House, a grand Georgian building with magnificent interiors and delectable treats.
  • Treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner at The Last Wine Bar & Restaurant, an elegant eatery serving up innovative British and European dishes.
Day 5

Hidden Gems and Local Flavors

  • Start your day with breakfast at Café Britannia, a unique eatery located within the walls of a former prison, where you can savor a delicious meal while supporting a good cause.
  • Explore the hidden gem of The Plantation Garden, a serene oasis of Victorian landscaping complete with a Gothic fountain and beautiful flower beds.
  • Discover the unique collections at the Museum of Norwich, from its quirky exhibit dedicated to mustard to its fascinating history of shoe manufacturing.
  • Indulge in a culinary adventure at Benedicts, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering an innovative menu created by renowned chef Richard Bainbridge.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Norwich Riverside Walk, admiring the picturesque scenery and charming riverside pubs.
  • Before bidding farewell to Norwich, grab a pint at The Fat Cat Pub, a local favorite known for its extensive selection of real ales and cozy atmosphere. Cheers!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Norwich by plane is to fly into Norwich International Airport, which is approximately 4 miles north of the city center. There are flights available from several major cities in the UK including London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

Car

Getting to Norwich by car is relatively easy, with the city well-connected to other major cities in the UK by several major roads including the A47 and A11. It takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive to Norwich from London.

Train

Traveling by train is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to get to Norwich. The city is well-connected to other major cities in the UK, with Norwich railway station serving as the main station in the city. There are several trains available daily from London, taking around 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Boat

While Norwich is not directly accessible via boat, it is possible to take a boat to Great Yarmouth, which is approximately 20 miles east of Norwich. From there, you can take a bus or train to Norwich.

Bus

If you're looking to travel to Norwich by bus, National Express offers services from several cities in the UK including London, Manchester, and Birmingham. The buses stop at Norwich Coach Station in the city center.

More travel plans

A Romantic Weekend in Norwich, UK

Norwich, located in the heart of Norfolk, United Kingdom, offers a perfect romantic getaway for couples looking for some quality time. From exploring the city's medieval history, visiting local museums and art galleries, to dining at some of the finest restaurants, there is something for everyone. Finally, ending the night with a romantic walk along the River Wensum under the stars will make this trip unforgettable.

Historic Heart to Hidden Gems: Norwich in 5 Days

Norwich, a vibrant city in eastern England, is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip. With its rich history, stunning medieval architecture, and abundance of kid-friendly attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the famous Norwich Castle, take a boat ride along the scenic Norfolk Broads, or visit the interactive Norwich Science Festival for a fun and educational experience.

Norwich in 48: Medieval Marvels and Nature Delights

Norwich, located in eastern England, offers a fantastic family-friendly destination with a rich history and plenty of attractions. In this medieval city, families can explore the stunning Norwich Cathedral, take a stroll along the scenic River Wensum, and immerse themselves in the interactive exhibitions at the Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery. With its charming streets, picturesque parks, and diverse range of family-oriented activities, Norwich is an excellent choice for a memorable and inclusive vacation.

Norwich on a Budget - A Fun-Filled Day Trip

Norwich offers plenty of budget-friendly options for visitors on a tight budget, including free museums such as Norwich Castle and the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts. For affordable eats, head to Norwich Market or the numerous ethnic food stalls in the city's lanes. To save on transportation, take advantage of the city's cycling infrastructure or use the Park and Ride scheme.