Pretty little city in England constantly named one of Europe’s most underrated | UK | Travel
Norwich might not be the most obvious choice for a UK city break, but it’s actually a beautiful spot filled with history, culture, and plenty of pubs – and it’s not far from London.
However, there’s much more to this ancient city, home to a cathedral that was consecrated nearly a millennium ago. It’s said to rival York in its charm but is far less frequented.
CNN this year named Norwich as the “most quintessential of English cities” and praised its “stunning” architecture as one of the top reasons to visit the town.
The Norfolk city boasts a rich history, claiming to be the UK’s most complete medieval city.
Its cobbled streets at Elm Hill, Timber Hill and Tombland echo with history, and ancient buildings like St Andrew’s Hall serve as reminders of the city’s long-standing heritage.
Additionally, Norwich is home to several grade-listed buildings, including Dragon Hall, The Guildhall, and Strangers’ Hall.
For those unswayed by distant allure, Norwich’s more recent Art Nouveau Royal Arcade may be more to their taste.
The city’s labyrinthine streets and numerous medieval alleys whisk visitors back centuries, to times of plague and monarchs’ iron rule.
It was William the Conqueror who once governed from Norwich, his formidable castle now a museum.
Despite Norwich boasting some of England’s most intact history, its remote location leaves many hesitant, especially with other famed UK attractions vying for attention.
Norwich is also renowned for its pubs as much as its history, with an adage claiming a church for every week and a pub for each day of the year.
The Fat Cat and St Andrews Brew House are popular choices for their on-site brewed craft beers.
Food lovers can enjoy a variety of dining options such as the Grosvenor Fish Bar, Farmyard Restaurant, and the Woolf and Social.
For art enthusiasts, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts is a must-visit, boasting one of the UK’s finest galleries with recent exhibitions featuring controversial works by Antony Gormley and landscape paintings by David Hockney and Claude Monet.