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Norwich, known as the 'City of Stories', is a beautifully preserved city in Norfolk that effortlessly combines its medieval past with a contemporary, creative spirit. Once the second city of England after London, it boasts a wealth of historic architecture, most notably the magnificent Norwich Cathedral with its soaring spire and one of the largest cloisters in England. Dominating the skyline is the impressive Norman Norwich Castle, which now houses a museum and art gallery. The city is also famous for its vibrant, permanent six-day-a-week outdoor market, one of the oldest and largest in the country, and its charming, cobbled medieval streets like Elm Hill.
As England's first UNESCO City of Literature, Norwich is a haven for book lovers, offering an authentic and engaging destination away from the typical tourist crowds.
The layout of Norwich makes it easy to explore on foot, but selecting the right area for your hotel can enhance your experience of the city's key features.
The City Centre area, particularly around the marketplace, provides the most central base. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance of the Norwich Market, City Hall, and plenty of high-street shopping options. It is a bustling area that gives you immediate access to the city’s daily life and is an excellent option for first-time visitors.
For a stay steeped in history and character, the Cathedral Quarter is highly recommended. This beautiful, quiet area surrounds the magnificent Norwich Cathedral and is home to charming cobbled streets such as Elm Hill. Many boutique hotels and traditional inns are found here, offering a more tranquil and picturesque atmosphere, along with access to independent shops and historic architecture.
If your visit includes events or you prefer a modern, well-connected base, consider the area near the Riverside and Norwich Train Station. This district offers modern hotels and is close to entertainment complexes, the river walk, and Carrow Road, the home of Norwich City Football Club. This area is convenient for ease of arrival and departure.
Norwich is served by Norwich Airport (NWI) and benefits from excellent rail connections, particularly to London. The train station is centrally located, making it easy to reach your hotel, especially if you are staying in the City Centre or Riverside areas. The compact nature of the centre means that from most hotels, you will find walking is the easiest and most enjoyable way to get around and explore.
To save money on your hotel stay in Norwich, it’s best to avoid the major holiday periods and be mindful of the city's unique event calendar. Like many UK cities, peak prices can be found during the summer months and major school holidays.
A helpful tip for finding better value is to avoid weekends, as the city is popular for short breaks; Sunday nights in particular are often significantly cheaper. A unique factor to watch in Norwich is during home football matches for Norwich City FC, as accommodation near the stadium and the Riverside area can book up quickly. Furthermore, a major surge in hotel demand often happens during the annual Norwich and Norfolk Festival in May, which sees a host of arts and cultural events fill the city. Opting for a time outside of these events will ensure you find the most competitive rates.