Ok, so we might be biased, but we absolutely love our fine city of Norwich, and honestly, what’s not to love? There is so much to see, do, and experience here.
If you are thinking of booking a summer staycation to Norfolk or Norwich, you’ve made an excellent choice. To help you make the most of your trip, here are a few ideas to help you plan the ultimate city break.
Getting here
Direct trains run from London, Cambridge and Ely. It generally takes two hours to get to Norwich from London, although there are 90-minute fast services. From Norwich, there are also easy onward rail connections to Great Yarmouth, Cromer, and the stunning Norfolk Broads.
Sightseeing
Norwich is the perfect blend of the old and the new. You can wander down the iconic medieval cobblestones of Elm Hill or marvel at the city’s rich history with a visit to Norwich Castle. We have two stunning cathedrals and are famously known for having a church for every week of the year.
Want to uncover our city’s UNESCO literary roots? Join the free City of Stories Summer Trail! Hunt for hidden storybooks tucked away in shop windows across the city centre and crack the secret code. It’s a fantastic, free day out for the kids, with the chance to win some exclusive prizes along the way.
Shopping
Whether you’re looking for high-street favourites or independent gems, Norwich is the perfect destination. If major brands are what you are after, then Chantry Place is the place to go.
If you are looking for something a little bit different? Skip the chain stores and explore The Lanes, a vibrant network of alleyways packed with independent shops, vintage stores and cafes. Don’t forget to stop by Jarrolds, an independent department store that has been an essential part of Norfolk life for 200 years. Finally, visit The Royal Arcade, a breathtaking Art Nouveau shopping arcade filled with beautiful boutique shops.
Food and Drink
You must stop at the colourful, roofed Norwich Market. As one of the oldest and largest outdoor markets in the country, it is packed with unique stalls and incredible street food. You could easily have every single meal here!
Now, if you thought there were a lot of churches in Norwich, legend has it that there is also a pub for every day of the year. If you want a vibrant, creative atmosphere, you have to drop by our very own Playhouse Bar for a drink by the river. It’s the perfect spot to relax before a night of entertainment.
Entertainment
Of course, no trip to Norwich is complete without taking in a show! Here at Norwich Theatre, we have three venues, meaning there is always something exciting to see.
This summer, we are so excited to welcome the Royal Shakespeare Company’s multi-award-winning Matilda The Musical (6 Aug – 6 Sep). Inspired by the beloved book by Roald Dahl, Matilda is the story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny.
Want to make your theatre night extra special? Book a table at our in-house restaurant, Prelude. The table is yours for the entire evening, meaning you can relax, enjoy your mains before the show, and return to your exact seats during the interval for dessert.
Your Chance to Win the Ultimate Norwich Family Getaway!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to win an incredible prize for the whole family to enjoy, offered in brilliant partnership between Norwich Theatre, Greater Anglia, The Maids Head Hotel, and VisitNorwich.
The lucky winner will receive:
- A family ticket to the multi-award-winning Matilda The Musical at Norwich Theatre Royal on Thu 20 Aug.
- Return rail travel provided by Greater Anglia.
- An overnight stay including breakfast at the historic Maids Head Hotel on Thu 20 Aug.
The opportunity to explore the city with VisitNorwich’s City of Stories Trail
Ready to pack your bags? Don’t miss out and enter here: https://form.typeform.com/to/GMOsH6jR?typeform-source=norwichtheatre.org
See here for competition T&Cs: https://norwichtheatre.org/win-an-overnight-theatre-trip-to-norwich-to-see-matilda-the-musical/
