Norwich

Historic streets, riverside walks and the Norfolk countryside

Norwich is a historic cathedral city in the heart of Norfolk, known for its medieval streets, independent shops, historic buildings and riverside landscapes. Situated on the River Wensum, the city offers opportunities to explore its heritage on foot, with walking routes connecting parks, gardens, historic landmarks and the surrounding countryside.

The historic centre is home to Norwich Cathedral, one of the city's most recognisable landmarks, surrounded by medieval buildings, cobbled streets and the peaceful Cathedral Close. Nearby, the Norwich Lanes offer a network of narrow streets lined with independent shops, cafés and historic architecture, while Norwich Castle overlooks the city from its elevated position.

The River Wensum winds through Norwich, with riverside paths connecting historic bridges, green spaces and quieter parts of the city. Walkers can explore sections of the river near Pull's Ferry, Cow Tower and the cathedral quarter, discovering a different side of Norwich away from the main shopping streets.

To the east of the city, Whitlingham Country Park offers lakeside and riverside walking routes through open grassland and woodland beside Whitlingham Great Broad. The park provides opportunities for shorter countryside walks close to Norwich, with connections to the waterways and landscapes of The Broads National Park.

Norwich is also a useful starting point for exploring the wider Norfolk countryside. Marriott's Way, a long-distance walking and cycling route following former railway lines, begins in the city and continues towards Aylsham through woodland, farmland and rural villages. To the east, the rivers, wetlands and nature reserves of The Broads National Park offer further opportunities for walking and exploring.

Norwich railway station provides an important gateway to Norfolk for visitors travelling by public transport, with direct train services from London Liverpool Street, Cambridge and other destinations across East Anglia. Regional rail connections also make it possible to explore the wider county without a car, including Sheringham and Cromer via the Bittern Line and the eastern Norfolk coast via the Wherry Lines towards Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft. This makes Norwich a practical starting point for walking breaks and longer journeys through Norfolk.

With its historic attractions, restaurants, independent shops and transport connections, Norwich provides a convenient base for combining city exploration with days spent walking in the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the city's riverside routes, enjoy nearby parks and nature reserves, or travel further into The Broads National Park and the wider landscapes of East Anglia.