Living in Norwich – A Guide to Life in Norfolk

Are you thinking of living in Norwich?

This vibrant city in Norfolk offers a unique blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and a strong community spirit.

Once the second-largest city in England, Norwich has a rich history that is deeply intertwined with its modern identity, making it an intriguing place to settle down.

Known for its medieval architecture, lively cultural scene, and a robust sense of community, Norwich provides a unique living experience that combines the best of both urban and rural lifestyles.

Locals can work, learn, and enjoy some fantastic activities all within the city, meaning you won’t have to leave the city to find what you’re are looking for!

With so much to offer, Norwich has built a strong community and sense of identity.

Calling Norwich home ensures residents have access to all the amenities you would expect from a city.

The area also houses some top-notch schools and universities as well as a range of arts and culture spots.

Being in Norfolk, residents also have great access to the beautiful rural locations that border the city.

With so much in its favour, it is no surprise that Norwich continues to be recognised as one of the best places to live in the UK!

The city has even been named as one of the best places to live in the UK  The Sunday Times.

From the ancient streets echoing with stories of the past to the contemporary buzz of its thriving student, arts and entertainment venues, living in Norwich means being part of a city that respects its history while embracing the future.

Let’s delve into what makes Norwich such a compelling place to call home.

Life in Norwich

So, what can you expect life to look like when making the move to Norwich?

Norfolk’s county capital has an abundance of reasons to attract new residents, making it the perfect blend of urban excitement and rural tranquillity.

It is important to understand the relative ‘isolation’ of the city to have a true grasp of what it is like to live in.

Norfolk is situated on the North Sea, there are no onward destinations, motorways or high-speed rail services due to its location.

This means that Norwich and its various suburbs compel residents to live and work within the area itself.

Moving to Norwich offers the ideal middle ground, providing all the vibrancy of a bustling urban area coupled with the serene, community-driven feel of rural life and whilst this may not appeal to everyone, it means that there is a fantastic community in the area!

Norwich’s strong community is bolstered by a number of annual festivals.

The Norfolk and Norwich festivals encourage residents to celebrate the region’s community-driven roots.

Norwich is also home to the fantastic University of East Anglia (UEA), which is one of the top performers in the country.

This community of students really adds to the city, giving it an injection of youthful exuberance.

There is also a strong drive towards regeneration in the city.

New developments are popping up throughout Norwich, making great use of neglected land.

Locals enjoy a tranquil pace of life, with a host of heritage and entertainment provided.

The city has numerous medieval buildings to enjoy, adding to the city’s charm.

As well as this, there are plenty of independent art galleries and shops to explore.

Quick and easy access to Norfolk’s expansive countryside and coastline only adds to Norwich’s allure!

Moving to Norwich ensures you have access to all the amenities you’d expect from a city, without sacrificing the peace and quiet often found in smaller towns.

Best Areas in Norwich?

Understanding the best areas to live in Norwich is essential for anyone considering making this charming city their home.

As Norwich’s popularity continues to rise, some neighbourhoods have developed sterling reputations, not just within the city but across the entire UK. Take the ‘Golden Triangle,’ for instance.

Located to the west and southwest of the city centre, this area stretches to Unthank Road and Earlham Road, becoming renowned for its cosmopolitan feel.

Here, you’ll find a mix of modern flats, semi-detached houses from the 1940s, and the more prevalent Victorian terraced properties, all contributing to a unique urban tapestry.

The Golden Triangle is particularly appealing to families and young professionals alike, offering excellent schools, a vibrant community spirit, and easy access to the city centre.

Another gem is Old Catton, a small village located just two miles north of the city. With a population of just over 6,000, Old Catton offers a range of modern semi-detached and detached properties, blending the convenience of city living with the charm of rural tranquillity.

The suburb provides easy access to local amenities, parks, and the picturesque Norfolk countryside, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Property Prices

Living in Norwich has become an ever more desirable option.

Having ranked in The Sunday Times best places to live for four years in a row, the popularity of the city is evident!

With this increased popularity, house prices have been steadily increasing in recent years.

However, Norwich still offers excellent value to those who choose to live here.

Norwich offers cheaper property prices than Bristol, London, and Brighton, and is around the same price as a property in Birmingham.

Whether you’re looking for a quaint Victorian terrace in the Golden Triangle or a modern semi-detached house in Old Catton, there’s a wide range of properties to suit different tastes and budgets.

With its fantastic Norfolk location, living in Norwich offers easy access to the coast, and rural areas, even allowing for commuting to London in under 2 hours.

Be sure you keep up to date with the current house prices in Norwich if you are thinking of moving to the area.

Employment Opportunities

Norwich has a rich history of manufacturing, once being a hub for shoemaking, but over the years, its economy has diversified significantly.

Today, Norwich boasts a broad spectrum of job opportunities across various sectors, including finance, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, energy, and healthcare.

One of the city’s standout industries is insurance, with Norwich being one of the largest insurance hubs in Europe.

This sector alone employs a substantial portion of the local workforce, contributing significantly to the city’s economy.

Additionally, the Norwich Research Park is a beacon of innovation, hosting Europe’s largest food, health, and environmental research centres.

This focus on research and development has created numerous scientific-related roles, with thousands more expected in the coming years.

Approximately 33% of Norwich residents are employed in business or financial services, reflecting the city’s shift towards a finance and service-based economy since the 1980s.

For those considering calling Norwich home, the city offers a dynamic job market with ample opportunities for career growth across various fields.

If you are considering making the move, be sure to search for your dream jobs at Indeed, Reed, or  Jobs24 where new vacancies and opportunities pop up all the time.

Road Connections in Norwich

When considering the prospect of moving to Norwich, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the intricacies of navigating the city’s roads.

At present, Norwich has implemented a comprehensive one-way system across various parts of its central area.

While this arrangement may not lead to the fastest travel times, it does significantly reduce the congestion typically experienced during peak hours.

Additionally, the city boasts several pedestrianised sections, which undoubtedly contribute to Norwich’s tranquil atmosphere.

Nonetheless, it is worth noting that incorporating these pedestrian zones into your daily commute may add a few extra minutes.

Notably, Norwich lacks a dedicated motorway network catering specifically to the city and its inhabitants.

Nevertheless, the A11, which connects Norwich to Cambridge and London, has been upgraded to a dual-carriageway.

As a result, a journey to the bustling capital takes just over two hours, ensuring that the proximity to London remains within reach for Norwich residents.

Furthermore, Norwich is conveniently linked to other nearby destinations through the A140.

This road establishes a connection between Norwich and Cromer in the north, as well as Ipswich in the south.

Moreover, the A47 plays a crucial role in facilitating seamless navigation throughout the city, stretching from King’s Lynn to Great Yarmouth and offering widespread accessibility.

It is worth mentioning the ongoing development of the Northern Distributor Road, which aims to provide residents with access to a dual carriageway.

This road will serve as a vital link between the city, Norwich International Airport, and beyond, enhancing the overall transportation infrastructure in the area.

Getting Around the City

Whilst Norwich’s relative isolation may make travelling to nearby areas a little tricky, the compact nature of the city means there are several great ways to get around!

Walking is a great option due to the relatively compact nature of the city.

You should be able to reach most destinations on foot!

Whilst this may take a little longer than some of the alternatives, it is a great way to see the city.

Who knows, you may find your new favourite cafes, shops, or parks on one of your walks!

Cycling is another great option.

Again, this is a great way to explore the city.

You should easily be able to get to your destination on a bike!

The city is very bike-friendly, there are several cycle routes to cater for all of the bike enthusiasts.

A number of different bus services provide public transport to Norwich.

Be sure to check out the Norfolk Government page to find out fares and bus times.

Norwich also provides residents with access to a local airport if you have your sights set on a destination that is a bit further afield.

Located around 15 minutes outside of the city, Norwich International Airport offers domestic and European flights.

Links to Amsterdam airport also allow an additional 1,000 worldwide destinations.

Check out the Norwich International Airport website for more information on getting to and from the airport.

Direct international flights can be accessed at London Luton and Stansted Airports, both of which are around a two-hour drive.

Schools in Norwich

When it comes to exploring educational opportunities for families, Norwich offers a multitude of options that are sure to captivate and inspire.

With a staggering 103 schools and colleges, the city boasts an extensive range of educational institutions that cater to students of all ages.

Among these educational institutions, an impressive 22 have received the esteemed ‘Outstanding’ review from Ofsted, reflecting the commitment to excellence in education in the region.

This recognition speaks volumes about the dedication and passion exhibited by the educators and staff who facilitate an environment that helps promote growth and achievement.

From the early years of primary school to the transformative years of sixth form and college, Norwich ensures that every student’s educational needs are met within a convenient 5-mile radius.

The top-rated primary schools in Norfolk include:

• Coltishall Primary School
• Henderson Green Primary School
• Cringleford CE VA Primary School
• Dickleburgh Church of England Primary Academy

12 secondary schools in Norfolk have received ‘Outstanding’ reports.

For secondary school students looking to study in Norfolk consider some of these top-achieving institutions:

• Ormiston Venture Academy
• Notre Dame High School, Norwich
• Wymondham College
• Hethersett Academy
• Ormiston Victory Academy

Shopping

Shopping in Norwich is an experience that rivals some of the best retail destinations in the UK, offering a delightful mix of high-street brands, unique boutiques, and local markets.

The city is home to two impressive shopping centres, Chapelfield and the Castle Mall, where residents can find everything from fashion and electronics to home goods and beauty products.

These centres host a range of popular stores, including John Lewis, Marks and Spencer, House of Fraser, and Primark, ensuring that all shopping needs are met under one roof.

For those who prefer a more personalised shopping experience, Norwich Market, the largest open-air market in the country, is a must-visit.

Here, you can discover a variety of niche and unique items, from local crafts and artisanal products to delicious street food.

The market’s vibrant atmosphere and eclectic mix of vendors make it a true gem in Norwich’s retail scene.

Additionally, areas like the Norwich Lanes, the Cathedral Quarter, and Magdalen Street offer an array of boutique shops specialising in vintage, collectables, art, and fashion.

Living in Norwich means having access to a diverse shopping landscape that caters to all tastes and preferences, making retail therapy an integral part of the city’s charm.

For even more information about shopping in Norwich check out the VisitNorwich website.

Food and Dining in Norwich

Norwich is a culinary delight, offering a diverse range of dining options that cater to every palate.

The city boasts an impressive array of restaurants and cafes, from cosy tea rooms and traditional British pubs to fine dining establishments and international cuisine.

The Norwich Market is a food lover’s paradise, with numerous stalls offering everything from freshly baked goods and artisanal cheeses to exotic street food.

For those who enjoy dining out, areas like the Norwich Lanes and Tombland are filled with trendy cafes, stylish restaurants, and lively bars, providing plenty of great options for a wonderful night out in the city.

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or an elegant dining experience, living in Norwich means having access to a rich and varied food scene that satisfies every craving.

Healthcare in Norwich

When considering a move to Norwich, it’s important to understand the healthcare options available in the area.

The city is well-equipped with a variety of healthcare facilities, ensuring residents have access to top-quality medical care.

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is the main healthcare provider, offering a wide range of services, from emergency care to specialised treatments.

Additionally, there are numerous GP practices, dental clinics, and pharmacies spread throughout the city, making healthcare easily accessible no matter where you live.

Norwich also boasts several private healthcare providers, offering residents further options for medical treatment.

The city’s commitment to health and well-being is evident in its investment in healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need.

Whether you’re looking for routine check-ups, emergency care, or specialised treatment, living in Norwich means having peace of mind knowing that comprehensive healthcare services are readily available

Ready to Start Living in Norwich?

Are you thinking of living in Norwich?

Whether you want to explore the stunning Norfolk countryside, enjoy the strong community spirit or soak up some of the region’s history, the city has something for everyone.

And, with a variety of fantastic locations and an array of different properties, there is undoubtedly a home for you!

GoodMove will make your move to Norwich an easy and stress-free process.

We take great joy in ensuring everything runs smoothly and flawlessly, helping you to settle into your new home right away.

As well as our competitively priced removals package, we can also offer extra services such as temporary or long-term storage facilities should you need them.

GoodMove cover all areas of Suffolk, Norfolk and Essex and our friendly estimators can call round at a convenient time for you and strategically plan your move to perfection.

During these unique times, GoodMove are also offering a new video survey service.

Using our new technology, we can gather all the information required to assist with your move, from the comfort of your home!

Video surveys will help you save valuable time and preserve the best safety levels.

To find out more about how we could get your dream move to Norwich or any other location underway do not hesitate to call us on the number listed above.

Alternatively, fill out a quick quote form or click on our live bot in the bottom right and a member of our customer services team will be in touch shortly.