Things to Do and See in Norwich, England

Generally speaking, when people visit England, they spend most of their time soaking up the expected sights of London, such as the Tower, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. For those seeking a more unique experience, however, away from the bus tours and Union Jack souvenirs, the medieval streets of Norwich may be just the ticket. Norwich boasts a rich history spanning from Roman times to the present, so expect something exciting around every corner.

The logical starting point of any trip to Norwich is the Castle. If its shining white exterior seems a little, well, out of place - that's because it is. Apparently, the Victorian residents of Norwich were not satisfied with a standard fortress. The outside of the castle was replaced in the 1800's so that it might better resemble the fairy tale ideal. Nonetheless, inside, Norwich Castle retains its history. You can see the original foundations, built by the Normans nearly a millennium ago, read graffiti written during the castle's time as a prison, and a human-sizes wooden dragon worn during Medieval St. George's Day celebrations (affectionately named "Snap"). The Castle also contains a museum where you can see everything from relics of the Iron Age Iceni tribe and their queen Boudicca to works by the famous Romantic era Norwich School of landscape painting.

The next step along any tour of Norwich should be the cathedral. Don't be confused - there are two cathedrals in Norwich - a 12^th century Norman one (now Anglican) and a 19^th century Catholic one. The Norman one is of greatest interest. It features a two-story cloister, the only one of its kind in England. However, among the most interesting facets of Norwich Cathedral are the bosses on the roof timbers. Each is exquisitely carved with a design, often biblical, but including several famous "green men," faces surrounded by gilded leaves.

If you fancy seeing a few more medieval churches, you're in luck. Norwich boasts thirty-one. In fact, it can often be quite comical trying to find a specific one. Most were built from local flint, as a way of showing off the city's wool wealth. Among these is the small Church of St Julian, built on the site of the 14^th century cell of Julian of Norwich, whose "Revelations of Divine Love" is believed to be the first book in the English language written by a woman.

Once you tire of church going, you may want to indulge in some shopping. Perhaps the best place to do this is Norwich Market. On the same site as the ancient Norman Market, it is one of the largest open-air markets in England. Don't miss the nearby Royal Arcade, a beautifully decorated covered shopping area dating from Victorian times. The Guildhall lies at the edge of the market. Built in 1410, it features unique checkered flint work and is a reflection of the city's status at the time.

Finally, take a stroll along King Street and the River Wensum. Stop by the magnificent Dragon Hall, the only known surviving medieval merchant's trading hall in Western Europe. Walk through a 14^th century arched doorway and see the carved dragon in the roof beams from which the hall takes its name. If you're feeling tired or need a drink, walk a bit further down the road to the Music House at Wensum Lodge. Downstairs, Jurnet's Bar occupies rooms dating back to 1175, so you can soak up some history and down a pint at the same time.