Written by Nicole Ranaweera
Norwich recently made the tabloids when Nightclub owner Alex Proud decided our fine city could be the next Notting Hill. After the usual provincial slurs were out the way, Alex Proud announced that Norwich is having “a moment” and could be the “new somewhere else”.
For me however, Norwich has had the hip vibe going on for a while now. As any local will tell you, this is old news Alex! Norwich is England’s first UNESCO City of Literature; Norwich Lanes has been going from strength to strength for years now and as home to two Universities and the Writer’s Centre I feel it’s safe to say that the “arty vibe” is well and truly embedded into local life.
But, Norwich is quirky, fun, laidback and modest; we embrace and celebrate the ‘Normal for Norfolk’ slur and proudly but quietly ‘Do Different’. Norwich has never needed to be labelled as cool or as the next big thing as it will most certainly continue to capture hearts long after its ‘moment’ has passed.
If you’re now planning a visit thanks to Alex Proud’s article in the Times, let me give you a quick rundown to what’s hip and happening in Norwich in November:
- Food: Norwich is hitting it hard on the vegan scene with new arrivals such as Ancestor’s Coffee shop, The Tipsy Vegan (food & cocktails) and Vegan Wok (the new vegan takeaway service). This November you can also pop along to OPENNorwich for the Norwich Vegan Christmas Market
- Nightlife: Day of the Dead is coming to Norwich! Think carnival atmosphere, candy skulls all over the place, and real Latin American flair!
- Fireworks: Norwich’s annual Big Boom display on the 3 November kicks off at 7.30pm. Book a table at The Rooftop Gardens for the best view in town!
- Shopping: Norwich’s Global Village Christmas Market is back for the weekend of the 30 November at The Forum. With mulled wine in hand, browse stalls from the finest traders, illustrators and makers selling beautiful gifts from around the world.
- Christmas: In Norwich you go big or you go home when it comes to decorations so it’s no surprise that the Tunnel of light is back for a second year. Come see the streets lit up in a magical way and really get into the spirit of Christmas. Don’t miss the big switch on at 6pm on the 16 November.
