These are unusual times, and the state of affairs can change quickly. Please check the latest guidance before travelling. Our writer visited these hotels prior to the pandemic.
Whether you’re after medieval charm, Georgian elegance, Victorian gothic or a mix of all three, the stand-out hotels and guesthouses span the centuries in East Anglia’s historic and characterful capital. Meticulously restored, they combine original features with contemporary style and top-notch facilities, and are well-placed for exploring the city’s best sights, shops and restaurants on a car-free stay, or as a base for touring the region’s coast and countryside which lie within easy reach of the compact centre. Here’s our pick of the best hotels in Norwich city centre, close to Cathedral Close, Elm Hill, the Theatre Royal and Norwich Market.
3 Princes
Norwich, Norfolk, England
A relaxed, hospitable b&b in a superb location within the city’s oldest and most atmospheric quarter, near the Cathedral, theatre and market square. It’s also one of the best Norwich hotels near the station; a 15-minute walk away. Grade II-listed, the imposing red-brick Georgian house has a spacious, uncluttered living area with stripped wood floors, contemporary artwork and eye-catching light fittings. Fresh flowers, glossy magazines, family photos, a key to the front door and a help-yourself kitchen makes this guesthouse feel like a home you really would like to call your own.
From
£
120
per night
The Maids Head Hotel
Norwich, Norfolk, England
This hotel in the heart of historic Norwich claims to be Britain’s oldest, and there’s no doubting its position as grande dame of the city and wider region. It sits opposite the Anglican Cathedral, on the south side of the city’s historic Tombland area (site of the Anglo-Saxon marketplace), close to cobbled Elm Hill with its antique shops and within a 15-minute walk of the castle and covered market square. It’s well placed for the city’s restaurants, sights and shopping streets. Plentiful parking is available at the rear of the hotel, a great plus point in this location.
From
£
86
per night
Rates provided by
Booking.com
• The best hotels in Norwich
The Assembly House
Norwich, Norfolk, England
An elegant, Grade-I listed mansion with parking in the centre of Norwich, The Assembly House offers a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore Norfolk’s lively capital. Its 11 guest rooms have been decorated with huge flair and skill: stylish patterned fabrics, strong Farrow & Ball wall paints and striking contemporary artwork are a real feast for the eye. Modern touches are skilfully combined with antiques (porcelain dogs or Spode teapots). Its adjacent to the Theatre Royal and prime shopping streets, and within a 15-minute walk of the Norwich’s castle and Cathedral Close.
From
£
170
per night
Rates provided by
Booking.com
38 St Giles
Norwich, Norfolk, England
A welcoming and characterful b&b tucked down a quiet side alley, excellently located in the historic city centre. It makes a great base for taking in the sights (castle, cathedral, museums), shows and shopping. Original features, such as elegant fireplaces, Farrow-and-Ball-painted wall panelling and large sash windows, are complemented by the tasteful mix of antique and contemporary furniture, oriental rugs on original floorboards and modern photography on the walls. Eight beautifully presented guest rooms, the tasty breakfasts and a friendly welcome ensures an appreciative following of returning guests.
From
£
125
per night
Rates provided by
Booking.com
The Georgian Townhouse
Norwich, Norfolk, England
An informal, sassy hotel with a lively bar and restaurant, slightly removed from the city centre but within walking distance of sights and shops. It’s a good base for theatre-goers, close to the Roman Catholic cathedral and Chapelfield Shopping Centre. The vibe is young, retro and upbeat with hip rooms and relaxed, friendly staff. The hotel lies just west of the city centre, with sights and shops within walking distance. A total of 22 bedrooms include 20 standard and two deluxe. Think Roberts radios, Smeg mini-fridges, iron rack shelving, vintage-style phones and contemporary lighting. Parking is available.
From
£
96
per night
Rates provided by
Booking.com
Gothic House
Norwich, Norfolk, England
If you are after a cosseting night in a lovingly renovated, Grade II-listed Regency guesthouse, this is for you. There are no en-suites, but expect a friendly welcome, relaxed atmosphere and plenty of knick-knacks to catch the eye. Parking in the gated courtyard next to the guesthouse is a big plus point in a city where public spaces can be expensive and sometimes hard to find. Otherwise this is a straightforward bed and breakfast without extra facilities. It’s conveniently near Norwich Cathedral and its medieval Close, plus the antique shops of Elm Hill, and within 15 minutes’ walk of the city’s covered market square and ancient guildhall.
From
£
95
per night
This article was originally published by Telegraph.co.uk. Read the original article here.