City Guides

Student city guide to Norwich: top 10 things to do

With two universities located in Norwich, there's no shortage of students. But what is available for them to do in the city? Whatuni finds out...

Eleanor Foulds
by Eleanor Foulds
Last Updated:
16 Jan 2024

Norwich may be small, but it packs a punch. Not literally though - the city is actually one of the safest in the UK. Around the city, you'll find lots of beautiful streets and buildings, as well as plenty of places to eat and drink. You'll also be able to choose from a range of cinemas, museums and galleries to pass your days in when you're not studying.

So, what exactly awaits you if you decide to study in Norwich? We list some of the best things...

1) Norwich Cathedral


Norwich Cathedral
Image via Visit Norwich

Good for: Getting your dose of history.

What it is: A stunning place of worship dating back to 1096.

Why you should go: You can take a free guided tour of the Cathedral and the beautiful grounds that surround it here in Norwich. Even if you are not into the beauty and architecture of the Cathedral itself, you can take some time to relax in the grounds and café. Entry is also free to explore the 44 acres surrounding the cathedral. 

2) Grosvenor’s Fish Bar


Good for: Some classic fish and chips.

What it is: A chippy that's been open for 95 years (and counting).

Why you should go: Get yourself some classic fish and chips in this long-standing chip shop that has been gracing customers with its presence for over 90 years. Fish and chips aren’t the only thing they serve up either with a selection of wraps, burgers and sandwiches on offer too.

3) Bar and Beyond


Bar and Beyond Norwich
Image from https://www.redcactusevents.co.uk

Good for: A cocktail or two.

What it is: A funky cocktail bar offering night-time events as well as bottomless brunch.

Why you should go: This nightspot offers a variety of really hearty food and some great drinks too, even better when you can get 50% off any beverage before 10pm most Saturdays! You can experience a casual meal out here and also a great club experience after dark. Bar and Beyond has great DJ’s and live music acts here from time to time.

4) Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery


Norwich Castle
Image via Wikipedia

Good for: Immersing yourself in some culture.

What it is: A famous landmark housing art and historical collections inside a castle.

Why you should go: Norwich Castle is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Being over 900 years old, it is now home to many collections of fine art, natural history and archaeology. Many events and exhibitions are held here and as it is in the centre of Norwich it is easily accessible. 

5) Cinema City


Cinema City Norwich
Image via Picturehouses.com

Good for: Seeing the latest blockbusters.

What it is: An old-fashioned cinema showing the latest big releases as well as indie and arthouse film.

Why you should go: Visit this quirky old-fashioned cinema with its three screens and instagrammable courtyard. The 17th Century style dining room and bar makes your cinema experience that little bit more exciting with afternoon tea, brunches and other snacks all available to you. 

6) The Drawing Rooms


Birdcage Norwich
Image via The Independent

Good for: Winding down after a day of revision.

What it is: A popular city bar.

Why you should go: In the heart of Norwich, this drinking venue offers a selection of wines, beers and more. It's in a beautiful historic building, so you'll be able to admire your surroundings as you eat and drink. As well as being a favourite pub in this city it also holds live music events downstairs in their ballroom.

7) Chantry Place


INTU Chapelfield
Image via www.intugroup.co.uk

Good for: A shopping day out with friends.

What it is: A great shopping centre in this city with over 60 stores.

Why you should go: You can spend your time wandering around, not to mention the variety of restaurants and cafes on site that you can go to. You can take advantage of those student discounts in this place whether you’re buying those last minute university essentials or if you’re on the lookout for a bargain in the latest clothes sales.

8) The Plantation Garden


Plantation Gardens Norwich
Image via Tripadvisor

Good for: Having some time for yourself... and maybe getting those perfect Instagram pics!

What it is: A three-acre English Heritage registered garden with over 100 years of history.

Why you should go: This beautiful hidden garden would make for a lovely place to take a walk or stop and read a book. A place to reset and switch off for a while, it costs just £2 to visit and this money goes towards the upkeep of the gardens too so you’ll be doing your bit for the community if you take a trip down here. 

9) Norwich Market Place


Norwich Market Place
Image via Visit Norwich

Good for: Finding all the bargains.

What it is: A local market selling food, gifts and useful items.

Why you should go: Winning the title of Best Large Outdoor Market in 2019, you can find all sorts here from fresh food to go, clothes, jewellery, flowers and more! It's open Monday – Saturday, giving you plenty of opportunities to feel like a proper local. 

10) Carrow Road Football Stadium


Good for: All the football fans who want some football entertainment up close and personal.

What it is: Norwich City Football Club's home ground.

Why you should go: Watching a match in the ground always beats having to watch the game on the TV at home or in a pub! 

Key info about Norwich


Norwich has a diverse array of students, with two universities - Norwich University of the Arts and University of East Anglia - located in the city.

And who could blame them for choosing to go to uni in this area of the UK, with a charming city centre full of medieval architecture (1,500 historic buildings) and quaint independent shops, bars and restaurants, and the best of Norfolk's beautiful countryside right on your doorstep.

Students studying at each uni seem to enjoy their local life, with many commenting on the variety of things to do, how welcoming the city is to students and how easily accessible everything is:

Norwich City Review

Norwich City Review

Norwich City Review

You can read more reviews from Norwich students here and here.

NEXT:

- Search for courses at unis in Norwich

- Read more city guides 

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