Norwich

Norwich is a city in the county of Norfolk, England, and the county town. It lies on the River Wensum, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) northeast of London. The city’s population was around 143,000 in 2021. Norwich is known for its well-preserved medieval center, including historic streets, churches, and market spaces that reflect its long trading history.

Historically, Norwich developed into one of England’s wealthiest medieval cities through wool and textile trade. The city preserves many medieval and early modern buildings, including Norwich Cathedral, founded in 1096, and Norwich Castle, a Norman fortress later used as a law court and museum. The Elm Hill area features early brick-and-timber architecture, while the Market Place remains a focal point of city life.

Norwich is home to two universities: the University of East Anglia (UEA) and the Norwich University of the Arts (NUA). The city’s cultural life includes venues such as The Forum, the Theatre Royal, and the Norwich Playhouse, along with the Norfolk and Norwich Festival. The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts at UEA holds a significant art collection and hosts exhibitions.

Economically, Norwich relies on education, services, and public administration, with a growing creative and digital sector. It is served by Norwich railway station and is connected to major roads such as the A11 and A140. The surrounding region includes the Norfolk Broads, a network of rivers and lakes popular for recreation.

Other places named Norwich exist outside the United Kingdom, notably Norwich, Connecticut, in the United States, which are not part of the English city.