This iconic landmark with its 315ft spire has risen high above Norwich’s skyline for more than 900 years. From its humble beginnings as an 11th Century Benedictine Monastery, dating back to 1096. The column is the second tallest in the country and is home to peregrine falcon chicks, born every spring.

Explore the Cathedrals stunning architecture, marvel at the magnificent medieval cloister or enjoy one of the free informative tours. Here you will discover countless wonders, and its free to enter.

The Cloister, with its vaulted walkways, is the largest in the county. I was blown away at the hundreds of medieval roof bosses that decorate the lofty heights of both the Cathedral and the Cloister. These centuries old carvings are the biggest collection of their kind in the world. They tell stories of the New & Old Testaments from the creation to the Last Judgement. Totally mesmerising, I had a cricked neck after a while! Visit the library with its shelves packed full of historic gems, dating back as far as the 15th Century.

Discover Edith Cavell’s grave, the Norfolk nurse’s final resting place beside the Cathedral’s St Saviour’s Chapel. Born in 1865 she became a pioneer of professional nursing training in Brussels, tending to soldiers from both sides. During the war in occupied Belgium, she worked with the underground resistance to shelter over 200 Allied soldiers, aiding their escape. A true hero. Sadly, she was executed in October 1915.

From medieval stone carvings to stained glass windows, stand in awe taking in the kaleidoscope of colours, cast from the Trinity Windows, a sublime spectacle of light in the North Aisle, truly unique.  One of the Cathedrals greatest treasures, dating back to 1380, is The Despenser Reredos, the only surviving English Altarpiece, with scenes from Christ’s Passion. Saved from destruction due to being hidden on the underside of a table, and re-discovered in 1847.

Venture up the narrow spiral stone staircase, leading to a museum of glass enclosed relics and artefacts from years back.

Everyday the Bible is read from the Cathedrals Pelican Lectern, a 14th Century Flemish bronze beauty that escaped the destructive fate from the Reformation by being buried in the bishop’s garden. 

Enjoy the choral evensong or the many family activity days, you may even spot Budge the Cathedral’s cat. Exhibitions are also held here, including works of Shakespeare.

Relish a tasty cup of coffee and the most scrumptious of cakes in the welcoming Refectory café, on the site of the original monks dining room. Along with the obligatory gift shop, there are clean toilets.

For me, the following quote perfectly sums up, how I regard our past, ‘History helps us find our place in the world. It defines our relationships with neighbours and provides us with the roots we need to flourish’.

Hubby and I are in agreement, Norwich Cathedral has been our favourite, so far. Enjoy your visit and take in all that historic Norwich has to offer.