Exploring Norwich
I’ll start with my favourite route to walk into town. It takes about 20 minutes for me to get to the edge of the shops. I find the walk in is lovely, the walk back less so if you’re laden with bags or have a little one in tow. You can always get a taxi or bus back. If you’re driving it’s only 5-10 minutes depending on which side of town you’d like to park in. A good tip is to park at Sainsbury’s (Brazen Gate) which is free for 2 hours if you buy something.
Above you’ll see the beginning of my preferred route (starting bottom right), which takes you onto a green pathway which used to be an old railway line and takes you all the way to the edge of the shops. You’ll arrive first at Sainsbury’s and then crossing over the inner ring road, you’ll find yourself at John Lewis. For the full route click here
If you’re anything like me upon arriving you’ll need a coffee immediately - I’d recommend either Strangers for a takeaway coffee (opposite John Lewis) or you can wander around to Timber Hill for a coffee and something delicious from Two Magpies. From here I’d wander down Timber Hill aiming towards the central market, which is a great place to orientate yourself and begin exploring!
Among locals, we tend to refer to certain areas of Norwich, so I thought it might be helpful to group my recommendations by area so that perhaps you can choose to do a few of the districts well rather than trying to cover the whole city!
City Centre and Market
I would count this as the main market area as well as the long road that runs along the bottom of the market, named Gentleman’s Walk. Gentleman’s Walk houses many high street shops and cafés, but if you’re looking for high street shops in particular it’s worth visiting Chantry Place shopping centre (previously known as Chapelfield) which is probably about a 10 minute walk from the market.
Other places to explore in the area:
The Market - One of the largest and oldest open-air markets in the country, and with its traditional multi-coloured fabric tent roofs, it’s become one of the most recognisable (and photographed) sites of Norwich. It’s fantastic for street food as well as fresh fruit and veg, spices, bread, cheese and asian food supplies.
Jarrold department store - Traditional, independent and family-run, I love visiting for a homemade cheese scone in the old-school restaurant on the top floor.
The Forum - The city’s main library and a beautiful public space, The Forum also hosts local exhibitions and markets.
The South Asia Collection - Just a short walk from the Forum, is this extraordinary building packed with antiquities and beautiful textiles. Incredibly it used to be a skating rink - they’ve got historical data and images to see when you visit.
Magdalene Street and Tombland
Follow this route to wander from the city centre to Magdalene street stopping by lots of lovely independent spots. I love Magdalene Street - it’s a little rough-and-ready but has wonderful antique emporiums including one aptly named ‘Aladdin’s Cave’. On your way back stop off at the Cathedral and with any luck they’ll have an exhibition on.
Recommendations en route:
The Book Hive - lovely old fashioned independent book store (with a gorgeous little nook for children’s books)
Artel - great coffee and sweet treats
Elm Hill - this little cobbled street has lots of gorgeous craft shops and niche independents including a shop dedicated to stuffed bears. Half way down Elm Hill cut down to the river for a lovely view, then carry along in the same direction along the river popping up by The Ribs of Beef pub and onto Magdalene Street. Turn left and cross over the bridge.
The Merchant’s House - Located right next to the Anteros Art Foundation which hosts exhibitions and art classes, this little café serves up cakes, coffee and toasties. A great spot for a pit stop!
Loose’s Emporium and Aladdin’s Cave - two of my favourite vintage and antique shops. Wonderful if you love hunting for treasure and bargains!
The Lanes
You can easily walk to this area from the market, or alternatively you can park at St Andrew’s Car Park.
This is probably one of the most popular areas of Norwich and is made up of a number of streets. To make things easier I’ll split my recommendations up by street, noting just a few of my favourite spots.
St Benedict’s
Pottergate
Upper and Lower Goat Lane
St Giles and Upper St Giles