Norwich Cathedral

Norwich Cathedral stands in the heart of Norwich's city centre, its soaring spire visible across the city. Built from 1096 onwards and substantially completed by the 15th century, the cathedral represents one of England's finest examples of Norman and later medieval architecture. The building survived the English Reformation and the English Civil War, though it lost much of its original interior decoration.

Visitors can explore the main body of the cathedral, with particular attention to the vaulted roof decorated with over 400 carved stone bosses depicting biblical and historical scenes. The cathedral houses extensive medieval stained glass in its windows, though many panels have been replaced or restored over the centuries. You'll find the cloisters, a peaceful quadrangle on the south side, which are among the most complete medieval cloisters remaining in England. The close surrounding the cathedral contains a mix of historic buildings, from Georgian townhouses to modern facilities.

The cathedral remains an active place of worship within the Church of England. It sits within a walled close of about 44 acres, making the precinct feel surprisingly separate from the busy city beyond. The cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Norwich and continues to play a central role in Norfolk's religious and cultural life.