A medieval UK city steeped in history is brimming with charm, and there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye.

Over the years, Norwich, nestled near the Norfolk coast, has been dealt some rather unfair titles, from being named the ‘most depressing UK city’ to being crowned ‘one of the worst UK cities for loneliness’. But among these disesteemed labels, Norwich has previously been voted one of the ‘best places to live’ in the UK and hailed as one of the ‘best places for independent shops’.

So what is the city really like? I spent a weekend in the ‘city of stories’ to uncover my own title, and stumbled across a collection of hidden gems, from cosy coffee houses to independent shops tucked amongst the enchanting architecture, brimming with character.

Once the second-largest city in England during the medieval times, Norwich has more than 1,500 listed buildings, alongside its ancient landmarks. It’s also known as one of Britain’s ‘best-preserved medieval cities’, so I was surprised to discover it had the charm of a large town, rather than an overpowering city.

Instead of towering buildings dominating the landscape, I strolled along narrow cobbled lanes lined with colourful medieval dwellings painted in shades of yellow, pink and blue. This felt like a hidden pocket of the city, as though I had stepped back in time.

Wandering the paths of Norwich further, I found the delights of their independent retailers, from gift shops to homeware, including Lazy Lobster and Elm. While the Norwich Lanes proved a key area for browsing further quaint stores. 

One standout shop is The Book Hive, tucked in the city centre, with its striking green façade and traditional storefront. The independent bookshop has recently garnered attention and has been made a regional finalist for this year’s ‘Independent Bookshop of the Year’, by The Bookseller, with its winner yet to be announced. 

Another incredible find in the city was the antique shop housed within a church, St. Gregory’s Antiques Collectables. It was an absolute treasure trove and a whirlwind tour through the decades, crammed full of memorabilia.

From 90s Beano magazines to familiar kitchenware reminiscent of my nana’s home, to fashion garments I desperately wish would make a comeback. It was certainly a nostalgic experience, spending almost an hour exploring the church as I got lost in the decades.

I also came across Norwich market in the city centre, where vibrant stalls offer everything from fresh produce and flowers to clothing and accessories. With numerous permanent stalls in place, it’s remarkably easy to lose yourself among them.

Naturally, I sought out the coffee shops with Bread Source, providing that fix of a steaming cup of coffee and delicious pastry, with The Yard Coffee and Blue Bear Coffee Co. also proving popular. Plus, the city has a thriving culinary scene, with eateries scattered throughout the city – my particular favourite was the Japanese restaurant, Shiki. The city even has its own rooftop gardens to admire the picturesque vistas.

But away from its shopping and foodie scene, the city is home to the majestic Norwich Cathedral and Norwich Castle, which is perched atop a hill overlooking the city centre. You can also enjoy scenic riverside walks and visit the beautiful Plantation Gardens, a restored Victorian garden tucked away in the city.

I also made the most of my time at one of the UK’s most ‘isolated cities’ and visited the renowned Holkham Beach, just under an hour’s drive from Norwich. With miles of golden sand, sweeping dunes and natural sea pools, it’s perhaps one of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline. It’s even a favourite among the Royal Family, with the Prince and Princess of Wales, known to have visited the North Norfolk beach on various occassions with their three children.

So what were my thoughts on Norwich? I loved it. While it’s not the biggest city by far, it offers a sense of nostalgia against its medieval charm I haven’t found anywhere else.

The label I’d give it? Perhaps, ‘The UK’s underrated city that deserves a visit’. Even if that’s to lose yourself in the antique church building or simply stroll along its cobbled lanes.

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