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The Fine City of Ales: A Norwich Crawl
I travelled from Cambridge to Norwich on Easter Sunday, starting at The Coach & Horses and working my way through a brilliant mix of historic pubs and newer spots. Each place offered something different, from riverside views to brewpubs with beer made on site, and I enjoyed trying a wide range of cask ales throughout the day. A real highlight was meeting up with Lucy from Norwich & District CAMRA at The Leopard, and it was great exploring several pubs together, chatting and sharing recommendations. The day finished at The Fat Cat & Canary, rounding off a busy and thoroughly enjoyable pub crawl.
Norwich has a long, fascinating story that goes back over 1,000 years. It started as a small Anglo-Saxon settlement and quickly grew into one of England’s most important cities during the medieval period. By the 1100s, it was known for its huge cathedral and busy market, which still runs today. Over time, weaving and trade helped the city thrive, bringing people and ideas from across Europe. While things slowed during the industrial age, Norwich kept its charm. Today, it’s known for its rich history, independent spirit, and a strong connection to its past.
The Coach & Horses
Easter Sunday saw me venture to Norwich on the train from Cambridge, starting the day at The Coach & Horses. The Coach & Horses dates back to at least the mid-19th century, appearing in records by the 1850s as Norwich expanded eastwards along Thorpe Road. It developed into a steady local, serving nearby residents for generations. The pub closed for a period in the early 1990s before reopening in 1993. That same year saw the establishment of Chalk Hill Brewery on site, which has since been regarded as Norwich’s longest-running independent brewery. Today, the pub continues to trade, linking its Victorian origins with a brewing tradition that has been part of the premises since 1993.
Inside has a cosy, traditional feel with a lived-in charm. There’s a central bar with polished wood and a good line of handpulls, surrounded by sturdy wooden tables and bench seating. A fireplace with a large mirror above gives one area a real focal point, while red walls, framed prints, maps, and strings of lights add plenty of character throughout. The layout breaks up into a few distinct sections, including quieter corners with barrel tables and high seating, making it easy to settle in. You can also spot the brewery side of things nearby, reinforcing its identity as a proper brewpub. Out front, there’s a surprisingly large beer garden, with plenty of picnic benches stretching back towards the building, offering a spacious spot to sit out with a drink on warmer days.
A fantastic warm welcome from the team behind the bar when I arrived. On the bar a fantastic line up of 6 cask ales all brewed on site (usually a guest but this was being changed), alongside a variety of keg choices. I went for Tap by Chalk Hill Brewery, a golden ale with light malt and a clean, refreshing finish.
The Red Lion
Next in Norwich was a short walk down to the riverside to visit The Red Lion. The Red Lion has a long history, with parts of the building dating back to the 16th century and evidence of it being a licensed premises from the 1700s. Set beside the River Wensum, it grew as a riverside pub serving the busy Bishopgate area. By the early 20th century it was well established, hosting music and local gatherings. The building was later reshaped into the larger Victorian corner pub seen today, while keeping its earlier roots. Through changes and refurbishments, it has remained a familiar Norwich pub, closely tied to its historic riverside setting.
Inside the space feels bright yet full of character, with dark wooden floors, exposed beams, and a central bar that anchors the room. Large riverside windows bring in plenty of daylight, giving the interior an airy feel, while softer lighting takes over later on. Seating ranges from standard tables to more tucked-away corners, making it easy to settle in. Outside, there’s a partly covered riverside terrace with wooden benches, heaters, and string lights, as well as additional seating at the front of the pub, offering a choice between waterside views or a more open street-facing spot.
A great choice of 5 cask ales on the bar, along with a wide choice of keg options. I went for Bure Gold by Woodforde’s Brewery, a golden ale with soft malt sweetness and a bright, easy finish.
Lollard’s Pit
A quick walk to the other side of the river brought me to Lollards Pit. Lollards Pit stands on one of the most historic sites in Norwich. In the 15th and 16th centuries, this area was used for the execution of people accused of heresy, giving the pub its striking name. The current building dates from the 17th century and was among the early pubs outside the old city walls. Over time, it has had several names, including the Kings Arms from around 1760 to 1975, and later the Bridge House until 2012. It was then renamed Lollards Pit, bringing its deeper history back into focus while continuing as a well-known riverside pub.
Inside it’s warm and welcoming, with low beams, exposed brick, and a layout that opens into a few different rooms. The bar sits snugly at the centre, while seating ranges from wooden tables to round spots with high-backed chairs and quieter corners by the windows and fireplace. Daylight filters through the leaded glass, and softer lighting keeps things cosy later on. There’s a relaxed, lived-in feel throughout, with little touches that add character. Outside, a paved courtyard with picnic benches and a covered area makes a great spot when the weather’s good, whether you’re stopping for one or staying a while.
A great warm welcome from Billy in here and it was fantastic chatting to you. On the bar a line up of 6 cask ales, a range of ciders and a selection of keg options. I went for Good Egg by Humpty Dumpty Brewery, a golden ale with gentle citrus notes and a smooth, easy finish.
The Plasterers Arms
I headed up to The Plasterers Arms next, which was around a 10 minute walk away. The Plasterers Arms has a history going back to the early 19th century, with the building dating from around 1822 and in use as a pub by the 1840s. It grew as one of many pubs serving Cowgate, which was once packed with beerhouses during Norwich’s industrial expansion. Over time, it became a well-known local, even picking up the nickname “the Knackers Arms.” Although the interior has changed over the years, it has always kept its focus on beer and regulars. Today, it remains a long-standing pub, still reflecting its roots in the city’s busy 19th-century drinking scene.
Inside it has a traditional, cosy feel with plenty of character. Exposed brick fireplaces and wooden floors give the space a warm, lived-in look, while soft green panelling and scattered potted plants add a bit of colour. Seating is varied, from window-side tables with bench cushions to stools and small round tables, plus a raised area with longer benches and low lighting. There are a few different spots to settle into, whether it’s by the fire, along the windows, or tucked into a corner. Natural light pours in through the large front windows during the day, while hanging bulbs bring a gentle warmth later on. It’s the kind of place where people gather for a pint and a chat, with an easy-going, welcoming feel throughout.
4 cask ales on the bar alongside a fantastic selection of keg options ranging in style and strength. I went for Sands of Time by All Day Brewing Company, a red ale with gentle caramel notes and a smooth, balanced finish.
Sir Toby’s Beers
My next stop in Norwich was an addition to Sir Toby’s Beers. Sir Toby’s Beers at St Saviour’s Yard is part of a very recent chapter in Norwich’s story. The container site itself opened in December 2025, transforming what had been a car park into a small hub for independent traders. Sir Toby’s arrived as one of the early bars, setting up in one of the units and quickly giving the space a friendly, easygoing feel. It’s not about long history here — more about making something welcoming and full of character, and showing how a bit of imagination can bring a space to life.
It’s a neat little container bar, compact but welcoming. One unit holds the bar itself, with fridges full of cans and bottles, a barrel used as a counter, and just a couple of stools inside. The walls are clean plywood, softened by rugs and small lamps that give it a warm glow. A second container nearby is set aside for seating, offering a bit more room to settle in. Outside, there’s proper seating too — bright tables and benches where people can sit with a drink, adding colour and a relaxed, easygoing feel to the space.
A great warm welcome from James and it was fantastic chatting to you. A range of keg options served on draught, as well as a huge selection of cans and bottles to drink in or takeaway. I went for Calm Before the Storm by Ampersand Brew Co., a pale ale with light citrus hop notes and a clean, easy finish.
The Leopard
A short stroll around the corner brought me to The Leopard – Norwich, where I met up with Lucy from Norwich & District CAMRA who I explored the next 6 or so pubs with. It was fantastic meeting and chatting to you, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The Leopard can be traced back to at least 1824, when it first appears in licensing records as a beerhouse. It grew alongside the surrounding streets as this part of Norwich developed, becoming a regular spot for local people over the years. Like many pubs of its age, it saw different landlords come and go and quietly carried on serving its community. In the 20th century, the layout was changed, opening up the separate bars into one space. After closing in 2013, it was refurbished and reopened in 2014, starting a new chapter while keeping its long history alive.
Inside it feels bright and welcoming while still holding onto its older character. There’s a mix of seating, from high tables and stools to cosy corners and bench seating, with dark wooden floors and green panelled walls giving it a classic pub feel. The walls are dotted with vintage signs and bits of memorabilia, adding interest without feeling cluttered. Large windows let in plenty of natural light during the day. Out the back, a covered beer garden with wooden benches offers a relaxed spot for a drink, with a painted mural adding a bit of charm to the space.
A great line up of 6 cask options, alongside a great variety of keg choices to choose from. I went for Caskade by On Point Brew Co., a pale ale with bright citrus hops and a clean, refreshing finish.
The Artichoke
Our next visit was to The Artichoke. The Artichoke on Magdalen Street has a long, layered past. The site started out as a medieval leper hospital, then became an almshouse and later a workhouse. By the 1700s it was running as an inn, hosting election meetings and everyday trade. It was officially licensed in 1868. The earlier building was destroyed by fire in the early 1930s, and the pub you see now was rebuilt in 1932 in an Arts and Crafts style. Even today, it still holds onto that sense of age and local history.
Inside feels warm and welcoming, with dark green walls, wood panelling and soft, low lighting that gives everything a relaxed glow. There are cosy corners with small tables, while the main bar has a steady buzz of people chatting and leaning in for a pint. Fairy lights, framed prints and a ceiling covered in colourful pump clips give it plenty of character. Out the back, there’s a relaxed beer garden with benches and a covered area, ideal when the weather’s on your side.
Drinks wise a great selection of 6 cask ales, alongside with a fab variety of keg options. Lots to choose from. I went for Electronic Rat by Ossett Brewery, a pale ale with lively citrus hop notes and a bright, refreshing finish.
The Brewery Tap
Next up was The Brewery Tap. The Brewery Tap has relatively recent roots as a pub but is closely tied to Norwich’s brewing scene. The building began life as the Wherry in the 1970s, serving the surrounding residential area. In 2005, it was taken on by the Fat Cat group, who introduced brewing on site, creating what became known as the Fat Cat Brewery. This gave it a new identity, with beer brewed just behind the bar. In 2011, it was renamed The Brewery Tap, reflecting that role. Since then, it has built a strong reputation as a place where brewing and pub life sit side by side.
Inside the space feels lively and full of character, with deep red walls, exposed beams and hops hanging across the ceiling that reflect its brewing roots. The bar sits to one side alongside chalkboards packed with options, while long wooden tables and benches fill the room, giving it a sociable, shared feel. It can get busy, especially when live music is on, adding to the buzz. Outside, the large beer garden provides plenty of extra seating, with picnic benches and a covered, heated area that makes it a good option in all weather.
Lots and lots of choice drinks wise in here. 16 cask beers, 18 keg lines and a huge variety of ciders. I went for Norwich Bitter by The Fat Cat Brewing Company, a traditional bitter with soft malt character and a smooth, rounded finish.
Whalebone
An extra call to check out a beer festival at Whalebone. The Whalebone has been pouring pints in this part of Norwich since the early 1800s, back when Magdalen Road was still growing into itself. By the 1830s it was already a proper pub, and for a time it even brewed its own beer, with stables and a malt house out back. The building you see today took shape in the late 1870s, and bits of that history still linger behind the bar. It’s changed hands, had the odd refresh, and seen generations come and go, but it’s never lost its place as a welcoming local.
Inside centres on a busy, compact bar with dark wood, brass fittings and warm hanging lamps, where people lean in close over pints and conversation. There’s a slightly raised area beyond with bench seating and a lived-in feel, while further back it opens into a brighter dining space with sturdy tables, exposed beams and a nod to its brewing past on the walls. Out through the doors, the beer garden is well-used, with heaters, close-set tables and an easy buzz of chatter, making it feel like an extension of the pub rather than somewhere separate.
The beer festival they were holding over the Easter Weekend was brilliant, offering 36 cask ales alongside the 4 they normally offer, showcasing a range of breweries from around the UK. I went for Bear Pale by Crafted Conservation, a pale ale with fresh citrus hop notes and a clean, easy finish.
Duke of Wellington
Another extra visit in Norwich, this time to Duke of Wellington. The Duke of Wellington began life in 1931 as a corner shop called Waterloo Stores, with a bakery and alcohol licence. In 1937 it became a pub named the Iron Duke. It passed through brewery ownership before later becoming independent. The name changed to Duke of Wellington around 2002. It has been under the same long-term management since the early 2000s. A small Second World War air-raid shelter still sits beneath the building, a quiet reminder of its past.
Inside, it feels warm and easygoing, like a proper local. The bar is at the centre, with wooden stools and a line of handpumps, and people chatting as they lean in with a pint. Dark beams run across the ceiling, with cream walls, old prints and brewery signs dotted around. Off to one side there’s a cosy seating area with bench seats, small tables and soft, low lighting. The red and green carpet gives it that familiar pub feel, and a small fireplace sits nearby. It’s bright in the day, friendly, and somewhere you can settle in without any fuss.
They were hosting a “Best of East Anglia” beer festival showcasing 32 beers, alongside a range of ciders. They normally offer a fantastic range of cask ales when there is no festival on. I went for Liquid Illuminati by Fengate Brewery and College Hop-Out by JackRabbit Brewing Co., two pale ales with bright citrus hop notes and a fresh, lively finish.
Kings Head
A short taxi ride brought us to our next stop in Norwich was to Kings Head. Kings Head dates back to at least the early 19th century, appearing in records by the 1830s as Magdalen Street grew into a busy part of Norwich. It developed as a local pub serving workers, traders, and nearby residents in this lively area. Over the years it saw the usual changes in ownership and layout but remained a steady presence on the street. In more recent times, it has been revived under new ownership linked to a local brewery, giving it a fresh chapter while keeping its long-standing role as a well-used local pub.
Inside it has a cosy, traditional feel with plenty of character. The bar sits centrally between two rooms, with a polished wooden counter serving both sides of the pub. Wooden floors run throughout, with a mix of tables, chairs, and bench seating, including a slightly raised snug at the back. The décor leans into its heritage, with framed prints, old signage, and warm lighting from wall lamps and hanging shades, all set against a deep red ceiling that gives the space a distinctive look. Daylight filters in through the front windows, while the lighting creates a warmer feel later on. There’s also a Bar Billiards table tucked away to one side. It’s a friendly, easy-going space, making it a comfortable place to settle in for a pint or a catch-up with friends.
A great warm welcome in here and a bar showcasing a brilliant line up of 7 cask ales, alongside a couple of ciders. I went for Bad Egg by Humpty Dumpty Brewery, a golden ale with gentle malt sweetness and a smooth, easy finish.
Ribs of Beef
Up next was to Ribs Of Beef. The Ribs of Beef is one of Norwich’s oldest pubs, with parts of the building dating back to the 15th century and records of it operating as a tavern by the 17th century. Set beside the River Wensum, it grew as a riverside pub serving workers and traders using the nearby quays. Its unusual name is thought to reflect old tavern traditions rather than a specific event. Over the centuries, it has remained in continuous use, adapting with the city while keeping its historic character, and today stands as a long-established pub closely tied to Norwich’s past.
Inside the Ribs of Beef, it’s full of character, with low ceilings, wooden beams, and a layout that shows its age. Upstairs, there’s a lively room with stained-glass windows, bench seating, and space for live music. Downstairs feels quieter, with smaller rooms, exposed brick, and cosy corners to settle into. The pub has a slightly winding layout, with different spaces opening up as you move through. Head further on and it leads out to the riverside seating, where you can sit by the water, enjoy a drink, and take in the view of the bridge and passing boats.
A great line up of 8 cask ale lines on the bar including their own house beer, alongside a selection of keg options. I went for Jetty Time! by Ribs Of Beef, a pale ale with bright citrus hops and a fresh, zesty finish.
St Andrews Brew House
Onto St Andrews Brew House. St Andrews Brewhouse opened in 2015, bringing brewing back into the centre of Norwich. Before that, the building had a varied recent past, trading as Festival House and later as Delaney’s. Its conversion created a brewpub with beer made on site, linking it to the city’s long brewing tradition. From the start, it combined a pub, restaurant, and working brewery, with brewing equipment visible inside. It quickly became known for its house beers and central location, and remains a popular spot, blending modern brewing with the life of a busy city street.
Inside it feels cosy and full of character, with exposed brick, wood, and industrial touches throughout. The brewing tanks sit just behind glass, so you’re always aware of the beer being made, and hops hanging from the beams add a nice bit of detail overhead. Seating ranges from stools by the bar to long shared tables and comfy booths further in. The lighting is soft and warm, and the whole place has an easy, relaxed feel whether you’re popping in for a quick pint or staying a while.
A choice of 4 cask ales on the bar to choose from, alongside a variety of keg options. I went for Hop Drop N’ Roll by St. Andrew’s Brewhouse, a pale ale with punchy hop notes and a bright, lively finish.
The Murderers
Next up in Norwich was to The Murderers. The Murderers began life as the Gardeners Arms in the 18th century, serving people in this busy part of the city. In the early 19th century, it took on the name “The Murderers,” commonly linked to a story of a landlord who killed his wife. The striking name quickly set it apart and became part of its identity. Over time, it grew into a well-known Norwich pub, serving locals and visitors alike. Despite changes over the years, it has kept its character and remains one of the city’s most recognisable and talked-about pubs.
Inside it feels warm, welcoming and full of character, with a traditional layout that opens into a series of different spaces. Dark wood panelling runs throughout, alongside painted brick walls in greens, creams and deep reds, with beams and partitions creating plenty of tucked-away corners. There’s a mix of bench seating, sturdy wooden tables and small snug areas, including spots by fireplaces or behind timber dividers where you can settle in. The bar sits at the centre, while further back the space opens out under skylights, bringing in natural light to balance the softer glow elsewhere. Details like vintage mirrors, framed prints and shelves of books add to the charm and sense of history. It’s an easy place to feel at home, find a good spot, and settle in for a proper pint and a long chat.
A great selection on the bar of 8 cask ales, 3 ciders and a great selection of keg options so lots of choice. I went for Rockabilly by Shortts Farm Brewery, a pale ale with fresh citrus hop notes and a light, easy finish.
The Fat Cat & Canary
My final visit of my day in Norwich was to The Fat Cat & Canary. The Fat Cat & Canary opened on 23 May 2012, when a former pub known as the Mustard Pot was transformed into part of the much-loved Fat Cat family. The old name likely nodded to Colman’s mustard, long made in Norwich and a point of pride for the city. Reworked into a relaxed, beer-led pub, it kept a strong local character. Sitting near the station and Carrow Road, it quickly drew in both regulars and football crowds. Its name blends Norwich’s brewing past with its Canaries football identity, giving the place a warm, rooted feel that still carries through today.
Inside feels lively and full of character, with warm yellow walls and low ceilings covered in pump clips. The space is broken into snug areas with wooden tables, bench seating and a black-and-white tiled floor that gives it a proper old pub feel. Around the walls are brewery signs, bits of local history and the odd football scarf, while TVs show the match without taking over. It’s busy but relaxed, with people chatting over pints and plates. Outside, a covered yard with picnic benches offers a quieter spot, looking out onto murals and the car park beyond.
A great line up of 5 cask ales to choose between on the bar and a range of keg options. I went for Bittersweet Symphony by The Fat Cat Brewing Company, a bitter with soft malt flavour and an easy finish.
Micropub Adventures 