Norfolk is one of the most alluring corners of England, with its wonderful landscape and wetlands, and Norwich is very much the jewel in its crown.
Once upon a time, it was the second largest city in the UK, dwarfed only by London, although now you’ll be struck by how intimate, friendly and well-preserved it is.
Ancient foundations
While some cities are content to rest on their laurels, Norwich is constantly reinventing itself and its heritage. The beautiful buildings of the older parts of the city were built when the city’s wool trade boomed, but the modern Norwich is home to two universities, a popular football club and has a brilliant balance of art, culture and nightlife.
That history does beg to be explored, however, whether at the castle or the cathedral. Work began on the latter in 1096 and it combines several architectural styles due to later additions. The 15th century rib vaulting inside is phenomenal, while the complex and intricate ‘bosses’ – there are more than 1,000 – bring renowned Bible stories to life. There are sympathetic modern touches too, only adding to the grandeur of the place.
Another spot you can’t miss – given its prominent hilltop location – is Norwich Castle. This imposing 12th century fortress is the perfect place for a tour, with stories of medieval battles, grim torture and political intrigue practically oozing out of the walls. There’s an interactive museum too, plus, somewhat incongruously, a vast collection of teapots.
The halls and hills
Norwich’s essential heart can be found in the Tombland and Elm Hill areas. This was the city’s core in medieval times, and the cobblestones you’ll walk on here date back centuries.
The city is full of historic buildings, such as the 15th century Dragon Hall, a trading hub with a famous carved dragon inside. It has recently been restored and refurbished and is now the National Centre for Writing – Norwich has a rich literary history and was the first city in England to be a UNESCO City of Literature.
The strikingly modern Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts stands in marked contrast to these Tudor buildings. This Norman Foster-designed edifice has been used as a movie location for the Avengers HQ in numerous Marvel films, including Ant-Man, Captain America and Avengers: Infinity War, and stands next to a sculpture park full of work by the likes of Henry Moore and Antony Gormley.
Inside, there’s modern and ancient works to be found, including a celebrated Art Nouveau collection and paintings by Francis Bacon, Degas and Picasso.
The Broads and beyond
The Norfolk Broads actually start in the city, and you can use your Norwich car hire to explore these graceful wetlands.
A National Park, they were formed after a confluence of rivers flooded due to peat crofters digging in the 12th century. This ecosystem is now home to some of the country’s finest – and rarest – flora and fauna, while windmills and waterways soothe the soul.
Park up your car and wander the walking trails, or hire a boat and explore the lock-free routes. You’ll be joined by bird-spotters and nature lovers as you come across old cottages, the 14th century St. Helen’s Church and a rich assortment of family-friendly attractions.
From contemporary art to ancient castles, explore the city and its surrounding areas with a hire car from Norwich.
