Turquoise Line

Norwich has everything – from incredible architecture and history, most notably the iconic Cathedral and Castle, through to sophisticated culture, boutique shopping paradise, as well as nightlife and the roller-coaster ride that is its football team, nicknamed the Canaries, this is place in which so quickly the bustling city gives way to green fields and sleepy but fascinating rural Norfolk charm. Such a contrast is abundantly apparent on the 13, as tree-lined roads appear rapidly on the exit from this marvellous City down Newmarket Road, with its grand-looking houses and large, perfectly cared for gardens. By Hethersett, farms and fields appear, so too the lovely looking St. Remigus Church on the left and upmarket Parm Farm Hotel. Wymondham approaches and the bus passes the front of the fascinating Heritage Museum and on its return nestles in the main square alongside the 17^th century Market Cross. Just a stone-throw away is the 900 year old Wymondham Abbey – this really is a great town, which also houses the southern terminus of the Mid Norfolk Railway with links to Dereham (and a nice round tour back to Norwich on the Excel service from First.

The bus continues, though, more fields, farms and trees to Attleborough, a charming village with nicely manicured gardens and bungalows, the lovely Queens Square in the centre and a range of independent shops and cafes. It’s a gem of a place, and nestled only 35 minutes away from the throbbingly vibrant and stunning city of Norwich.

Wymondham Abbey provides church services and other events and is a beautiful attraction well worth a visit. It was founded in 1107 and has incredible architecture, including two fantastic organs. 10 minutes from the bus stop is Wymondham Abbey railway station and is served by heritage services operated by the Mid-Norfolk Railway (MNR) between Wymondham and East Dereham, cutting through quintessentially pretty Norfolk rustic life and countryside. A full loop is possible back from Dereham to Norwich on First’s Excel bus service. Remember in Wymondham to take a picture of the Market Cross, opposite the bus stop – the carvings are from manufacturers that descended from the town and the structure now houses the Tourist Information Centre. Make a visit, if you have time, to the Wymondham Heritage Museum which is packed full of riveting exhibits and displays that tell the story of the people of Wymondham and the surrounding area.

Or from Wymondham, a trip further to Attlelborough is great and a visit to the St Mary’s Church with its own stunning architecture and ambience from the Saxon era of its birth.

Gateway to Turquoise Line

By train to Norwich, then 10 minute walk to Norwich City Centre and Norwich Castle Meadow Stop CU