Nearby Locations: Norwich
Norwich, “A Fine City”, is steeped in history and makes an easy day trip from the park. The Bittern Line railway runs direct from Cromer and Sheringham to the city centre, so you can leave the car behind. Norwich is one of the top shopping destinations in the country, with department stores such as the famous family run Jarrolds, two modern shopping centres, the picturesque Norwich Lanes full of independent shops and England’s largest permanent open air market, held Monday to Saturday.
The Cathedral and Tombland
Norwich Cathedral is reached through two medieval gateways from Tombland, the old Saxon market place. Begun in 1096 with stone shipped from Normandy, the Cathedral boasts the second tallest spire in England and magnificent medieval cloisters, all set in one of the largest cathedral closes in the country.
From Tombland it is a short stroll up Elm Hill, one of the oldest streets in the city. Its cobbles are flanked by genuine Tudor houses, of which there are more in this one street than in the whole of the City of London.
Norwich Castle
The Castle was built by the Normans as a royal palace 900 years ago and dominates the skyline from its hilltop above Castle Meadow. Following a £27 million redevelopment completed in 2025, the medieval keep has been transformed.
Its original floors and rooms have been reinstated and furnished as they would have appeared in 1121, and for the first time in its history visitors can explore all five floors, from the basement to the rooftop battlements with their spectacular views over the city. The castle is also home to a new Gallery of Medieval Life created in partnership with the British Museum, along with galleries of art, archaeology and natural history and the Royal Norfolk Regimental Museum, so there is a vast range of exhibits to suit young and old.
The Riverside
Pull’s Ferry, a 15th century watergate on the River Wensum, is one of the most photographed spots in Norwich, and pleasant walks run alongside the river in both directions. Follow the path a little further and you will reach Cow Tower, a medieval brick lookout, and the Adam and Eve, said to be the oldest pub in the city. In season there are boat trips along the river from the city centre.
More Museums and Historic Buildings
To discover more of the history and development of Norwich, visit the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell in Bridewell Alley, not far from the market place. Its galleries tell the story of the city’s industries and people, from Norwich shawls and shoes to Colman’s Mustard, and include a wonderfully recreated 1930s pharmacy. Nearby Strangers’ Hall, one of the oldest buildings in Norwich, is a magnificent Tudor merchant’s house with rooms furnished to show domestic life from Tudor to Victorian times.
Down by the river in King Street stands Dragon Hall, a spectacular medieval trading hall built around 1430 and named after the carved dragon in its great timber roof. Now home to the National Centre for Writing, it is free to visit, with guided heritage tours held monthly.
