2 nights in 'trendy but kind' Norwich

The newspaper says that Norwich is a 'cosmopolitan city with a small-town feel, a green conscience and a warm heart'. 'It's trendy but kind,' the report added.

Norwich is a very walkable riverside city - in fact it had the country's first pedestrianised street, London Street, in 1967. Today, most of the city centre is traffic free, a deliberate attempt to make it as enjoyable an experience as possible.

Places to stay recommendations

There's a shabby chic vibe to The Georgian Townhouse, a short walk from the city centre through Chapelfield Gardens. Choose from cosy bedrooms to one- and two-room apartments.

There's more Georgian splendour at The Assembly House, close to the Theatre Royal and Forum. With stylish rooms and suites, this is also the place to explore your inner Bridgerton - you can imagine Regency balls in the elegant dining rooms.

Close to the magnificent Norman cathedral, the award-winning Maids Head Hotel is thought to be the oldest hotel in the UK, dating back over 800 years. You can even stay in the room where Queen Elizabeth I slept while visiting her friend Bishop Matthew 'Nosy' Parker. In the 2026 Suffolk and Norfolk Tourism Awards, the Maids Head won Hotel of the Year and its WinePress Restaurant was awarded the Taste of England title.

The hotels have car parks but it would be great if you could arrive by train - London is just 90 minutes away and Cambridge just over an hour.

Events in Norwich

February - Norwich Science Festival

May - Norfolk and Norwich Festival

June - Norwich Wine Week

July - Norwich Pride

July - four-day Lord Mayor's Celebration

July - Shakespeare Festival in the Cloisters

September - Run Norwich

October - Norwich Beer Festival

Why Norwich is the best place to live… and stay

Plan your stay in Norwich