Norwich Cathedral — A Norman Masterpiece in Stone

Faith, Architecture, and Quiet Grandeur

Rising above Norwich’s rooftops, Norwich Cathedral has welcomed worshippers and visitors for more than 900 years.
Begun in 1096, it is one of the most complete Norman cathedrals in Britain, blending majestic medieval design with a calm, welcoming atmosphere.

Its soaring spire, grand nave, and tranquil cloisters make it the spiritual and cultural heart of Norfolk’s historic capital.

A Cathedral Built with Ambition

The Norman Bishop Herbert de Losinga founded the cathedral to assert both faith and authority in East Anglia.
Constructed with cream Caen stone imported from Normandy, the building reflects the power and craftsmanship of the medieval church.

Despite fires, storms, and centuries of change, the cathedral remains remarkably well preserved — a living monument to resilience and devotion.

Exploring Norwich Cathedral
1. The Nave and Spire

The elegant nave leads your eye upward to the cathedral’s 315-foot spire — the second tallest in England after Salisbury.
In addition, decorative stonework and patterned vaulting give the space a sense of harmony and height.

2. The Cloisters

Norwich has one of the largest cloisters in the country.
Peaceful walkways surround a wide green lawn, offering reflections on monastic life and providing one of the best photography spots in the city.

3. Medieval Roof Bosses

Over 1,000 carved roof bosses adorn the cathedral, depicting scenes from the Bible, daily life, and mythical creatures.
This incredible collection makes Norwich one of the world’s great centres of medieval sculpture.

4. Chapels, Art, and Light

Smaller chapels, stained glass, and memorials reveal centuries of prayer and creativity.
Moreover, exhibitions and concerts bring the cathedral to life throughout the year.

Learn more at the Norwich Cathedral official website

Cathedral Close — A City Within a City

Around the cathedral lies Cathedral Close, a peaceful enclave of historic buildings, lawns, and leafy paths.
It feels like stepping back in time — even though you are only minutes from the busy market square.

Furthermore, the riverside walk behind the cathedral connects to scenic routes along the River Wensum.

Visiting Norwich Cathedral
How to Get There

Address: The Close, Norwich NR1 4DH

By Train: 10–15 minutes’ walk via Riverside

By Bus: Services stop near Tombland and Prince of Wales Road

By Car: City centre parking nearby

Opening Hours & Admission

Open daily

Free entry (donations welcome)

Facilities

Cathedral café and shop

Guided tours and events

Step-free access to main areas

Toilets on site

Nearby Attractions

Norwich Castle Museum — Norman fortress of art and history

Elm Hill — Medieval cobbled street with boutiques

Dragon Hall (NCCL) — Historic merchant trading hall

Cow Tower — Riverside artillery tower

Together, they form the Norwich Cathedral Quarter Trail.

Why Visit Norwich Cathedral?

The Norwich Cathedral experience combines:

Awe-inspiring architecture

Quiet places for reflection

Rich medieval craftsmanship

A warm and thoughtful welcome

Whether you come to pray, admire the stone vaults, or relax in the cloisters, this cathedral is a masterpiece shaped by faith and community.

It’s not just a church — it’s the soul of Norwich.