Things to do in Norwich in the day

There is much to do in Norwich and so many places to see you are sure to have a fun-filled time! From fascinating guided tours to leisurely river cruises, or taking in an incredible show, there are activities galore! Whether you’re looking for a short break for the whole family or a weekend away for two, Norwich has something to offer everyone. And we’re sure after visiting us once you’ll soon be planning to come and see us again!

UEA Sportspark Swimming Pool. Photo credit: UEA

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Walking Tours

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An excellent way to explore Norwich and absorb the city’s ambience is on a guided walking tour. Led by one of the city’s very knowledgeable Blue Badge guides, they will take you on a journey through the most beautiful and ancient parts of the city and tell you the tales and secrets of Norwich’s historic figures, streets and buildings. Take the ‘City of Centuries’ tour and explore the past 1,000 years or perhaps follow ‘In the footsteps of Nelson’ and learn what life would have been like in the city for the Norfolk-born hero who was educated at the Norwich School. There are also special events run throughout the year including a spooky Halloween Tour for children.

For those who are passionate about historic buildings, why not take one (or more!) of the guided tours around the Norwich buildings. The tours explore some of the city’s most imposing structures including City Hall and Clock Tower where you can get some fantastic views across the city, the city’s second cathedral - St John the Baptist Roman Catholic Cathedral and the Great Hospital which is over 750 years old. There are also tours around the fascinating museums including Norwich Castle, its battlements and dungeons which contain the secrets of many hundreds of years!

Why not try one of the Norwich Trails - a series of historic walking trail booklets covering various geographic areas and themes relating to the city‘s past, to help you explore Norwich‘s outstanding heritage by foot.

Visit the HEART (Heritage Economic & Regeneration Trust) website to download leaflets and maps for the Elm Hill and Timberhill areas, or pick up at the Norwich TIC in the Forum.

City Cruises

For a relaxing way to enjoy Norwich tour the city from the comfort of a river cruiser. Take a trip through the heart of old Norwich, round the stunning cathedral and under the ancient bridges dating back to the early 1300s. Or try the Norwich Discovery cruise starting at Elm Hill which includes time for some all important shopping! All cruises include live commentary and are suitable for all ages and abilities.

City Sightseeing by Bus

Grab a seat on Norwich’s official tour bus and you’ll find that getting around Norwich to see all the best bits couldn’t be easier. With nine stops including Castle Meadow for the Castle and Mall Shopping Centre, Tombland for the Cathedral and Elm Hill and Theatre Street for The Forum, Origins and Chapelfield, you can simply hop on and off as and where you please. On board guides will provide commentary as you travel and will also be happy to answer any questions to help you make the most of your day.

Workshops and Shows at the Norwich Puppet Theatre

If you fancy doing something a little bit different during your stay, visit the unique Norwich Puppet Theatre. Housed in one of the city’s Medieval churches, the theatre runs a range of wonderful workshops for the over fives where they can let their imaginations run wild creating terrifying dragons or cute animal glove puppets. There are also numerous puppet shows to enjoy such as Snow White and the Emperor’s New Clothes. A treat for children and adults alike!

Get active in Norwich

There are plenty of ways to keep active during your stay and if the sunshine should disappear momentarily there are some great indoor activities. Norwich has two excellent public swimming pools, one situated next door to the Riverside Shopping Centre with a Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room - so a perfect way to relax after a hard day sightseeing! For golf enthusiasts there are some first-rate golf courses just outside the city or for the less serious player try out one of the pitch and putt courses. So be sure to pack for everything!

More things to do in Norwich

There's plenty more to do in Norwich than just shopping! Take a stroll along the river, or enjoy a cruise along it; enjoy one of the many parks and gardens dotted throughout the city, or just take in the bustling atmosphere at a street cafe!

Find more things to do in Norwich

More Information

Use the links below to help you navigate around our dedicated Norwich section.

Introduction to Norwich

History of Norwich

Shopping in Norwich

Places to visit in Norwich

Things to do in Norwich during the evening

Eating out in Norwich

Arts and culture in Norwich

Getting around Norwich

For more information on Norwich, go to our partner's website www.visitnorwich.co.uk or contact the Norwich Tourist Information Centre:
The Forum
Millennium Plain
Norwich
NR2 1TF
T. 01603 213999
F. 01603 765389
E. tourism@norwich.gov.uk
Open all year

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