2 days in Norwich: a weekend itinerary
A medieval city of lanes and a Norman cathedral, with the Broads and the coast close by.
- Independent UK guide
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- Updated October 2026
Norwich is a historic, easy-going city with a Norman cathedral, a castle, lanes of independent shops and a large market. This plan gives day one to the city, and uses day two for the Broads or a train ride to the coast.
It is flat, small and best explored on foot.
Day 1: Cathedral, castle and lanes
- Morning: Visit Norwich Cathedral, with its tall spire and the largest cloisters in England.
- Lunch: Eat in the Norwich Market, one of the biggest open-air markets in the country.
- Afternoon: Visit Norwich Castle Museum, and wander the Lanes and Elm Hill, a cobbled medieval street.
- Evening: Have dinner in the city and a drink in one of its many pubs.
Day 2: Broads or coast
- Morning: Take a boat trip on the Norfolk Broads from Wroxham or visit the Broads by train.
- Lunch: Eat at a riverside pub in a Broads village.
- Afternoon: Alternatively, take the Bittern Line to Cromer for the pier and the beach.
- Heading home: Norwich station is a short walk from the centre, with trains to London in under two hours.
Where to stay
The city centre is convenient, and the Cathedral Quarter is quieter and elegant. Golden Triangle is a leafy, villagey area.
Prices change daily, so check a few sites. These are affiliate links.
Getting there and around
- From London: About 1 hour 50 minutes by train from Liverpool Street.
- From Cambridge: About 1 hour by train.
- From Manchester: About 5 hours by train.
Norwich is compact, and best on foot. Trains and buses link the Broads and the coast.
If it rains
In wet weather, add the Sainsbury Centre, the castle museum and the many cafes in the Lanes.
Packing list for Norwich
Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.
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Frequently asked questions
Is two days enough for Norwich?
Yes. It covers the main sights and a day out in the Broads or on the coast.
How do I get to the Broads from Norwich?
Take the train or bus to Wroxham, about 20 minutes, where boats and trips are available.
Is Norwich good for shopping?
Yes. It has independent shops in the Lanes, a big market and several larger shopping centres.
Keep planning
A medieval city of cobbled lanes, a castle and a cathedral
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A day at Holkham BeachHolkham, NorfolkHolkham Beach is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches in England, a vast sweep of sand backed by dunes and pine woods within a national nature reserve.
North Norfolk Railway (the Poppy Line)Sheringham to Holt, NorfolkThe North Norfolk Railway, known as the Poppy Line, runs heritage steam and diesel trains about five miles through woodland and heath between Sheringham and Holt, passing the coast at Weybourne.
Last reviewed October 2026. Prices, opening times and travel details change, so check before you go. Report an error or share a tip.