10 Great Dates Ideas in Norwich
The coastal region of East Anglia is known for its beaches and broads. But how should you spend a romantic day or night in the city?
Our great dates in Norwich have you covered whether you’re seeking something geeky, intellectual, unique or relaxed. Read on for help planning your next meet in this historic part of the country.
10 Great Dates in Norwich
The charming medieval city with its cobbled streets and Dutch gables make for a pretty backdrop for your dates in Norwich. And with lots of interesting independent eateries, bars and watercourses to explore, you can plan anything from a lavish night out to a laid-back afternoon.Date ideas in Norfolk’s biggest city
Here’s our guide to some of the most varied and interesting date options in Norfolk’s vibrant market town.#1 Take an Alan Partridge walking tour
One of the city’s recent claims to fame is that it was home to the fictional TV and radio star Alan Partridge, as created by comic Steve Coogan. If you’re both comedy aficionados and Partridge geeks, you can explore some of his top spots. A private ‘Alpha Norwich’ tour can be booked at the city’s tourist information centre, or you can make your way around the points of interest with a self-guided tour.Where to book your Partridge pilgrimage
#2 Admire some art at the Sainsbury Centre
Opt for some culture at this extraordinary university art gallery and epic sculpture park. In addition to the local work, there are modern installations and pieces from around the world. With free entry, it’s also a super budget-friendly date to suggest, without appearing stingy!
Look up opening times and facilities at the Sainsbury Centre
#3 Grab lunch at Norwich Market
If you need more of a pit stop or lunch break date, this bustling, colourful hub has plenty of dishes to tempt you - and you don’t even need to choose the same type of cuisine. It’s one of the largest and oldest outdoor markets in the country with nearly 200 stalls. Some top tips for gourmet fast food include Churros for the People’s Biergarten menu, Japanese street food from Bunbox and Walsingham Farm Shop’s hot pie and mash, with lashings of gravy.Where to find Norwich Market's stalls
#4 Buy each other books in Jarrolds
Known as ‘The Harrods of the East’ Jarrolds has an award-winning book section with over 40,000 titles. Set a challenge to each buy the other a book based on what you already know about their tastes and interests. Then present your findings over oysters at The Bay Seafood Bar on the second floor of the department store.#5 Mess about on the water in an electric boat
Head to Thorpe River Green on the Yarmouth Road where you can hire an electric or diesel launch by the hour (up to a maximum of four hours - an ideal date time frame). Take your vessel further into the city, or chug out into the countryside past two windmills - the choice is yours. You might like to pack a picnic for the journey or stop off at one of the lovely riverside pubs.
What is there to do in Norwich at night?
We’ve covered a range of option for daytime hours. But what about after dark? Here are some of the best places to be at night.#6 Have drinks at The Georgian Townhouse
This spacious and refined venue fuses period features and antique pieces with urban contemporary design. Grab a cosy nook and relax in a comfy leather chair as you sup local ales and get to know each other a little better. There’s a terrace for summer evenings and indoor open fires for colder months.Take a look at The Georgian Townhouse's menu
#7 Speed dating in Norwich
Perhaps you’re yet to find a date but still want a night out. Speed dating is the ideal way to marry the two, have fun and interact with a variety of people from all walks of life. Our events are held in city-centre venues for convenience and ease of access and led by warm and welcoming hosts.#8 Fine dine at Roger Hickman’s
If you’re after low-key elegance and fancy food for your dates in Norwich, this is it. Arrive hungry (and with deep pockets) for a seven-course taster menu complete with canapes and a premium paired wine flight. It’s a great choice for vegetarians too, with an exciting and artistic menu. The restaurant has three AA Rosettes so is sure to impress a date who prefers the finer things in life.Book a table at Roger Hickman's Restaurant
#9 Visit Norwich’s first Whisky and Rum Lounge
This is found at the established Bond no 28 Tombland venue. As it’s open on Fridays and Saturdays to 1 am, you can extend your date into the early hours while keeping things sophisticated. Whisky and Rum is a ‘grown-up’ kind of nightspot, where your conversation won’t be drowned out by the music. Here’s a fun fact to share with your date - the area of Tombland is nothing to do with tombs. It was once an Anglo-Saxon market place - so the name actually derives from a Scandinavian word for ‘open space’.
Read the drinks list at Whisky and Rum Lounge
#10 Dance the night away at Mantra
But if you do want to party into the night with cocktails and top live DJs, take your date on to Mantra. It has its own tropical garden and a chic, fun atmosphere. Look out for special events and book a package in advance so you don’t have to worry about ordering at the bar.Get on the guestlist at Mantra
Which will you choose for your next dates in Norwich? If you’re a little further afield and want to make a move toward finding a significant other, why not sign up for speed dating in Cambridge, or book onto a speed dating event in Leicester. We’d love to see you there and help you meet like-minded singles.