Norwich City
Norwich, located in the East of England, is a city known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. Since 1096, it has been home to Norwich Cathedral – one of the most impressive and iconic buildings in the United Kingdom. The city is also renowned for its many historic churches, museums and galleries that attract visitors from all over the world. With a population of just over 140,000 people, Norwich is a smallish city with plenty to offer!
Norwich Cathedral
Norwich Cathedral is one of England’s hidden gems—a place where history, beauty, and peace come together in the heart of a charming medieval city. Whether you're drawn by its soaring spire, centuries of stories, or simply a quiet place to reflect, the cathedral offers something special for everyone.
Stepping inside, you're greeted by awe-inspiring stone arches, delicate carvings, and light filtering through stained glass that seems to slow time. Built over 900 years ago, it's one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe, yet it still feels alive with music, prayer, and community.
Wander through the cloisters—some of the largest in England—and you’ll find them lined with centuries-old graffiti left by pilgrims and monks. Pause in the tranquil cathedral close, where green lawns and ancient buildings offer a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the city.
But Norwich Cathedral isn’t just a monument to the past. It hosts vibrant events, concerts, and exhibitions all year round. Whether you join a guided tour or simply soak in the atmosphere at your own pace, it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Warm, welcoming, and steeped in history—Norwich Cathedral invites you to slow down, look up, and discover a space both sacred and spectacular.
My personal experience
Visiting Norwich Cathedral is like stepping into a living time capsule—one that blends history, beauty, and tranquility in the most welcoming way.
As you approach, the first thing you’ll notice is the soaring spire, the second-tallest in England, rising above the city skyline. It draws you in, and the closer you get, the more impressive the whole structure becomes. The grounds are peaceful, with the Cathedral Close offering quiet green spaces surrounded by historic buildings—it feels more like a quiet college courtyard than a city centre.
Walking through the main entrance, you're immediately struck by the vastness of the nave. The stone arches stretch high above you, and there’s this calming hush that seems to settle around everyone. The atmosphere is peaceful but not cold—staff and volunteers are genuinely friendly, happy to answer questions or offer stories that bring the place to life.
One of the highlights is the cloisters. They're the largest in England, and walking through them is a surprisingly emotional experience. There’s a sense of timelessness in the echo of your footsteps, the centuries-old graffiti etched into the stone by monks, soldiers, and pilgrims long gone.
The cathedral is full of little treasures—a beautiful wooden ceiling in the nave carved with hundreds of medieval bosses, a striking modern sculpture of Julian of Norwich, and side chapels that invite quiet reflection. If you're there at the right time, you might hear the choir rehearsing or join in a service that fills the whole space with sound and light.
There’s also a lovely café on-site with homemade cakes and tea, and a shop with thoughtful gifts and books. Whether you stay for an hour or a whole afternoon, Norwich Cathedral leaves a deep impression. It’s not just a building you visit—it’s a place you feel.