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Built on the site of an original timber fort, Norwich Castle dates from 1120 but owes its pristine appearance to controversial restoration in 1834 when the facade was re-faced with Bath stone. The castle has been the scene of much violence over the centuries, and from 1345-1887 served as the county gaol. It now houses a superb museum and an art gallery.
The museum contains exhibits of tools, pottery, jewellery and weapons and natural history. It is home to the world’s largest collection of British ceramic teapots.
The art gallery has a wonderful collection of works by the famed early-19th century Norwich School of landscape painters.
Castle Meadow; tel: 01603 223624. Open Mon-Sat 10.00-17.00, Sun 14.00-17.00. Admission charge.
A tunnel once used to take prisoners from the castle to court in the Shirehall now provides access to the Royal Norfolk Regimental Museum, which traces the regiment’s history from 1685. Exhibits include a reconstructed communications trench from World War I, weapons and badges and Victoria Crosses awarded to members of the regiment.
Shirehall, Market Avenue; tel: 01603 223649. Open Mon-Sat 10.00-17.00, Sun 14.00-17.00. Admission charge.
Local trades and industries over the past 200 years – including food production, iron foundries, shoe-making and textiles – are featured in the Bridewell Museum which contains reconstructions of a pharmacy of the 1920s and a 1930s pawn shop.
Bridewell Alley; tel: 01603 667228. Open Tue-Sat 10.00-17.00 (closed Oct-Mar). Admission charge.
The story of one of Norfolk’s best-known products is told in Colman’s Mustard Shop, where an integrated museum tells how the company’s founder, Jeremiah Colman started his mustard production in the early 19th century and improved social conditions for his workers and their families. Mustard memorabilia is on show and the shop features 15 varieties of mustard and a selection of souvenirs and gifts.
15 Royal Arcade; tel: 01603 627889. Open Mon-Sat 09.30-17.00 (closed public holidays). Free.
Dating from the 15th century, St Peter Hungate has been a church museum since 1933. Among its treasures are medieval vestments, illuminated books and a collection of Russian icons. A wide range of replica brasses is available for rubbing.
Princes Street; tel: 01603 667231. Open Mon-Sat 10.00-17.00 (closed Oct-Mar). Admission charge.
A medieval church is the setting for the Inspire Hands-On Science Centre, where visitors of all ages can discover the wonders of science and technology.
St Michael’s Church, Coslany Street; tel: 01603 612612. Open Tue-Sun 10.00-17.00. Admission charge.
An opportunity to sit in the pilot’s seat of a Vulcan bomber from the Falklands Task Force awaits visitors to the City of Norwich Aviation Museum, where special displays feature the story of the RAF’s 100 Group, Bomber Command and the role played by the United States Army Force Eighth Airforce in World War II.
Old Norwich Road, Horsham St Faith (two miles north of city centre); tel: 01603 893080. Open Tue-Sat 10.00-17.00, Sun 12.00-17.00 (Apr-Oct); Wed and Sat 10.00-16.00, Sun 12.00-16.00 (Nov-Mar).
