Norwich is often associated with Colman’s Mustard, Alan Partridge and a confusing dialect. But, stereotypes aside, the Norfolk city is a pretty and creative place. There’s a renowned University of the Arts, it’s the only English city in a National Park – the glorious Norfolk Broads are its backdrop – and it’s close to some of the country’s best beaches. It’s no surprise that Norwich often makes it into lists of the happiest places to live in the UK.
Kick off with an organic Norfolk breakfast at the Green Grocers. You’ll struggle to leave without a punnet of berries or carton of eggs, too. Not that peckish? Upper St Giles Street is home to a parade of cute delis and bakeries. Grab a cinnamon bun and coffee to go from Bread Source.
Looses Emporium is a must for vintage-lovers. Head to Magdalene Street for more retro delights at Aladdin’s Cave and Retreat Vintage. Swing by Stubenhocker for thoughtfully curated homewares, or join the literati in the Book Hive.
Really hungry? Hit Norwich favourite Grosvenor Fish Bar for a slab of tasty batter, or authentic indie Brick Pizza. For something lighter try veggie café Wild Thyme or be adventurous at Woolf & Social, where insects are on the menu. Save room for something sweet at dessert restaurant Figbar.
Wander around the Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery or horticultural gem Bishop’s House Garden before hopping on a rented bike. Pedal up to Mousehold Heath for great views of Norwich cathedral and castle. Wend your way alongside the River Wensum, pausing at ancient Cow Tower.
Sunny days call for a shandy at The Playhouse’s colourful bar, or The Plough on bustling St Benedicts Street. If it’s caffeine you’re craving, try artisan gem Strangers Coffee Company, which has its own roastery. The Tea House on picturesque Elm Hill will sort you out with a good old fashioned cuppa.
Norwich’s 900-year old market is in the very heart of the city. One of the oldest open-air markets in the country, it operates more or less all week. Think organic fruit and veg, local garden-grown flowers and food stalls selling everything from fresh churros to chips and sarnies; it’s the best place to watch Norwich life go by.
Forgo your urban comforts and live up a tree like a real country mouse. Ted’s hilltop treehouse is a teeny, tiny nest on the edge of the Norfolk Broads, with more leaves outside the window than you could shake an actual stick at. After a day in Norwich, sit around the firepit, cook alfresco and listen to birdsong from the deck of your very own human-sized birdhouse. A simple spot, with a sofa-sized for two and a ladder up to a bed in the eaves, those down to earth vibes extend to the bathroom facilities: a compost loo and an open-air shower for indulging your inner naturist. Ellie Walker-Arnott From £70 a night.
It’s dotted with natural marvels, lush National Parks and rural vistas that are begging to be front and centre on a postcard.
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