Sample the city that’s the best place to live in the UK
Norwich is top of the Sunday Times Best Places to Live in 2026 list. But you don’t have to move there to discover this vibrant city - a mini-tour will do! Here’s how to spend a day (or two) in the city.
“Trendy but kind, with a green conscience and a warm heart,” that’s how the Sunday Times judges described Norwich. Just a short hop from the Norfolk coast, it’s the county’s capital, known for its stunning cathedral and much more besides. If you’re taking a tour of the city, here are the essential stops. Who knows? You might even feel like making that move…
Morning
Norwich Market: where better to start your tour than the beating heart of the city, aka Norwich Market? The biggest covered market in Europe is crammed with 190 or so stalls selling vintage fashion, plants and flowers, second-hand books, hand-crafted gifts and much more besides.
It’s held from Monday to Saturday and opens at 8.30am. And with plenty of cafes and coffee shops, plus street food galore, it’s a good spot for breakfast or elevenses.
Norwich Lanes: love browsing quirky independent shops? This atmospheric labyrinth of winding narrow streets and alleyways is for you. Next to Norwich Market, Norwich Lanes is packed with gift shops, boutiques, independent music shops, restaurants and cafes.
And don’t miss Jarrolds, the city’s independent department store, with five floors of goodies to explore. Make sure you visit the food hall which is packed with local produce and own-brand delights.
Lunchtime
From seasonal favourites at city pub the Unthank Arms, to fresh bao buns or tortilla at Norwich Market to classic fish and chips at the Grosvenor Fish Bar, there’s a ton of tasty lunches to be had in Norwich.
But if you can’t quite decide on what to eat, why not go to Yalm, a food hall housed in the Royal Arcade in the centre of the city? Yalm is a Norfolk word for ‘to eat hungrily’ and with ramen, streaks, and Thai, Mexican, Mediterranean and Korean delights all served up here, you should find something to satisfy your appetite.
Afternoon
Norwich Cathedral: with its beautiful medieval roof sculptures, towering spire and huge arched cloister, Norwich Cathedral is absolutely stunning – and it’s free! (although donations are appreciated). After you’ve been inside, take the weight off your feet on the cathedral green, or stroll along the meandering River Wensum.
Norwich Castle: dating back 900 years, Norwich Castle is one of the city’s landmarks and a history buff’s delight. Get a feel for what it was like back in the days of Henry I when you explore the medieval rooms, and soak up stunning views of the city from the rooftop battlements.
Plantation Garden: all that sightseeing and shopping is tiring. Luckily, there’s the secluded Plantation Garden with its green lawns, woodland walkways and Italianate terrace to soothe your senses.
Dinnertime
Soak up the Caribbean vibes and bold flavours at Turtle Bay. Or feast on delicious meals made from sustainable organic produce at Brix and Bones. Prelude, on the ground floor of the Theatre Royal, serves up seasonal favourites before the show.
Evening
Bowling House: Bowling House isn’t just about bowling – although it does have five retro-style lanes for pin-toppling fun. It’s also the place for some for top stand-up comedy. And if that’s not enough, you can always sing your heart out at karaoke.
Theatres: Norwich has six - yes, six - theatres so if you love live shows you’ll be in heaven. There’s something here to suit most tastes from West End productions at the Norwich Theatre Royal to comedy and new plays at the Norwich Theatre Playhouse. And if you’re taking the kids, check out the Norwich Puppet Theatre.
Where to stay
Not quite ready to up sticks and embrace Norwich permanently?
Elizabethan-style Dunston Hall Hotel is the perfect base for your trip to Norwich, as well as a peaceful place to relax when you’ve done exploring the city. Enjoy afternoon tea, play a game of golf and relax in our spa.
