How to Explore Norwich on City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

If you’re planning to visit Norwich, England’s first UNESCO City of Literature, and want to explore the city’s landmarks, then the City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour is an excellent option to consider. Discover the historical city of Norwich, with its stunning architecture, castles, museums, and universities aboard an open-top double-decker bus. In this guide, we’ll tell you all you need to know about this tour, including how to plan your tour, what to expect on this tour, and the attractions you should consider visiting.

Planning Your City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour

The City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour is one of the best ways to explore the city. With multiple stops along the way, you’ll be able to customize your tour itinerary and visit the attractions that interest you. Here’s how you can plan your tour:

Step 1: Choose the Right Day

Before booking your tour, consider which day of the week would be best for you to explore Norwich. The City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour operates daily, so you can easily slot in a day that would be best for your schedule. Keep in mind that the tour operates between 9:30 am and 3:30 pm, so try to plan to start the tour early to have ample time to explore the city.

Step 2: Choose Your Ticket Type

The City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour offers a 24-hour ticket, which is perfect for exploring the city at your pace. With this ticket, you can hop on and off the bus as many times as you want within 24 hours. Additionally, your ticket includes free headphones, informative audio commentary, and attraction entry fees.

Step 3: Plan Your Itinerary

The City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour has nine stops in total. Take the time to plan out the attractions that you want to see and create an itinerary for your tour. You can visit attractions like Norwich Castle, the Riverside Entertainment Complex, and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

Step 4: Book Your Tour

You can book your City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour on the Viator website. The tour is easy to book, and you’ll receive an e-ticket immediately after booking.

What to Expect On the Tour

The City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour takes about one hour and 20 minutes to complete one full loop. During the tour, you’ll get to see the city from a unique perspective aboard an open-top double-decker bus. The audio commentary will provide you with insights into the city’s rich history and heritage. You can tune in to the onboard audio commentary using the free headphones provided to you. If you’re feeling hungry or thirsty, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars with outdoor seating to satisfy your appetite or quench your thirst. If you’re keen on shopping, then you’re in luck as there are many shops that sell unique souvenirs, fashion, and gifts.

Attractions to Visit on Your City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour

When visiting Norwich, the following attractions should be at the top of your list:

Stop 1: Castle Meadow

The Castle Meadow stop is one of the most popular stops on the City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour. At this stop, you can explore Norwich Castle, which is one of the finest surviving examples of a Norman keep in England. You’ll also get to learn how the castle was used throughout history, from a royal palace to a prison.

Stop 2: Norwich Cathedral

Norwich Cathedral is one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in the city. At this attraction, you can explore the medieval architecture, visit the cloisters, and marvel at the stained glass windows.

Stop 3: Tombland

Tombland is a historic square and is one of the most picturesque places in the city. At this attraction, you can take a stroll around the square and visit the many cafes, bars, and restaurants that surround it.

Stop 4: Strangers’ Hall

Strangers’ Hall is a beautiful and historic building that dates back to the medieval period. At this attraction, you can immerse yourself in the lives of the former residents and learn about the history of the building.

Stop 5: Castle Mall

The Castle Mall stop is perfect for those who want to indulge in some retail therapy. This attraction is home to over 80 shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Stop 6: Riverside Entertainment Complex

The Riverside Entertainment Complex is a modern and vibrant destination that offers a range of entertainment options, including a cinema, bowling alley, and an array of bars and restaurants.

Book Your City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour Now!

The City Sightseeing Norwich Hop-on Hop-off Tour is an excellent way to explore the historical city of Norwich. With multiple stops along the way, you can hop off the bus and visit the attractions that interest you most. To book your tour, visit the Viator website and book your tickets today! Book the tour here

FAQ About Norwich

1. Where is Norwich?

Norwich is a city located in East Anglia, in the county of Norfolk, England. It is situated approximately 100 miles northeast of London.

2. What is the population of Norwich?

As of 2019, the estimated population of Norwich is around 141,000.

3. What is the history of Norwich?

Norwich has a rich and diverse history spanning over a thousand years. The city was founded by the Anglo-Saxons in the 5th century and became an important center for trade during the medieval period. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Norwich was a major hub of the Industrial Revolution, particularly in textile manufacturing. Today, it is a thriving cultural and economic center, known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.

4. What are some popular tourist attractions in Norwich?

Norwich has many popular tourist attractions, including:

• Norwich Cathedral

Norwich Cathedral is a magnificent Norman building that has stood for over 900 years. It features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and a stunning cloister.

• Norwich Castle

Norwich Castle is a medieval fortress that now houses a museum and art gallery. It contains exhibits on the city’s history, art, and natural sciences.

• Elm Hill

Elm Hill is a beautiful cobbled street lined with historic buildings dating back to the 16th century. It is a popular spot for taking photos and exploring the city’s rich history.

• The Norwich Lanes

The Norwich Lanes is a labyrinth of alleyways and lanes that are home to a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is a popular spot for shopping and dining in the city.

• The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts

The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts is an art museum located on the campus of the University of East Anglia. It houses a collection of over 1,200 works of art, including pieces by Francis Bacon, Henry Moore, and Pablo Picasso.

5. What is the best way to get around Norwich?

Norwich has a reliable public transportation system that includes buses and trains. There are also many cycling and walking paths throughout the city, making it easy and enjoyable to explore on foot or by bike.

6. What is the weather like in Norwich?

Norwich has a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in January is around 4°C, while the average temperature in July is around 18°C.

7. What are some popular events and festivals in Norwich?

Norwich hosts a number of popular events and festivals throughout the year, including:

• Norwich Beer Festival (February)

The Norwich Beer Festival is a popular event for beer lovers, featuring over 200 real ales, ciders, and perries.

• Norfolk & Norwich Festival (May)

The Norfolk & Norwich Festival is an annual arts festival that features a wide range of performances, exhibitions, and events across the city.

• Norwich Pride (July)

Norwich Pride is a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in Norwich, featuring a colorful parade and a range of cultural events.

• Norwich Food & Drink Festival (August)

The Norwich Food & Drink Festival is a popular event for foodies, featuring a range of local food and drink producers and artisanal vendors.

8. What is the nightlife like in Norwich?

Norwich has a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with a range of bars, pubs, clubs, and live music venues. There is something for everyone, from trendy cocktail bars to traditional pubs, and a number of music venues that host both local and national acts.

9. What is the local cuisine in Norwich?

Norwich has a thriving food scene that celebrates local produce and regional specialties. Some popular local dishes include Norfolk ham, Cromer crab, and Colman’s Mustard, which has been made in Norwich for over 200 years.

10. What are some nearby attractions to visit from Norwich?

Norwich is located near a number of popular attractions, including:

• The Norfolk Broads

The Norfolk Broads are a network of rivers and lakes that are popular for boating, fishing, and wildlife watching.

• The North Norfolk Coast

The North Norfolk Coast is home to picturesque towns, beautiful beaches, and stunning wildlife reserves.

• Blickling Estate

Blickling Estate is a historic country house and gardens that is open to the public. It features beautiful interiors, stunning gardens, and a range of events and exhibitions.

• Holkham Hall

Holkham Hall is a magnificent 18th century country house that is open to the public. It features exquisite interiors, beautiful gardens, and a range of events and exhibitions.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Norwich

Norwich is a city located in the East of England famous for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and cultural gems. It is considered one of the most complete medieval cities in the UK, and as such, there are plenty of things to explore as a tourist. If you are planning a trip to Norwich, you are in for a real treat. Here is our detailed guide on how to spend your time in the best possible way.

1. Visit Norwich Castle

A trip to Norwich Castle is almost mandatory for any tourist visiting the city. The castle was built in the 12th century and was a Royal Palace and a prison for many years. Today, it is a museum and an art gallery that features a wide variety of exhibits. You can explore the castle keep, which is one of the most impressive parts of the building, and learn about the history of the city.

2. Discover Norwich Cathedral

Norwich Cathedral is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture and has been a symbol of the city for almost a thousand years. The cathedral is open to visitors throughout the year, and there are guided tours available that will highlight the remarkable features of this building. Be sure to take in the panoramic views of the city from the cathedral tower, which is the second highest in England.

3. Explore the Norwich Lanes

The Norwich Lanes are a collection of narrow streets and alleys that are home to some of the best independent shops and cafes in the city. It is a perfect place to wander around, enjoy the architecture and browse the unique stores. You will find everything from vintage shops to craft breweries, and you will not regret exploring this wonderful part of the city.

4. Take a Boat Tour

A boat tour of Norwich’s waterways is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. A guided tour will take you through the River Wensum, and you will get a chance to see landmarks such as the Cow Tower, Pull’s Ferry, and Bishop’s Bridge. Alternatively, you can rent a canoe and paddle down the river at your own pace.

5. Visit the Norwich Market

The Norwich Market is one of the oldest and largest outdoor markets in the UK. It is open every day and offers visitors an array of products, from fresh produce to handmade crafts. It is a perfect place to grab lunch or a snack, and the atmosphere is always bustling and vibrant.

6. Learn about the City’s past at the Museum of Norwich

The Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell is the ideal place to learn about the city’s history and culture. The museum exhibits include displays on the city’s medieval and industrial past, as well as a recreated 1940s living room. It is also an excellent place to learn about Norwich’s most famous citizens, such as Admiral Lord Nelson and author Julian of Norwich.

7. Walk along the River Wensum

The River Wensum runs through Norwich, and it is a beautiful and peaceful place to take a stroll. There are several walking paths alongside the river, and you will see plenty of wildlife along the way. Make sure to stop for a pint at the Red Lion, which is a pub with a terrace overlooking the river.

8. Catch a show at the Theatre Royal

The Theatre Royal is a historic venue that has been entertaining audiences since the 18th century. It is one of the most significant theatres in the East of England and is home to a wide range of productions, from West End musicals to stand-up comedy. If you are interested in the performing arts, this is the place to be.

9. Visit the Felbrigg and Blickling Estates

Norwich is surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside in England, and the Felbrigg and Blickling Estates are perfect examples of this. Both properties are owned by the National Trust and are open to visitors throughout the year. You can take a walk through the magnificent gardens, admire the stunning architecture and learn about the rich history of these properties.

Concluding thoughts

Norwich is a city that is bursting with history, culture, and entertainment. It is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you are interested in medieval history, performing arts, or shopping, Norwich has something to offer. Follow this guide, and you will not run out of things to do during your stay in Norwich.