The UK city once named 'worst place to live' now voted one of the best to visit

Norwich is an excellent place for a staycation, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

By Astha Saxena, News Reporter

Colourful houses along the River Wensum

Norwich has been named the best place for staycation (Image: Getty)

A beautiful UK city that was once named the “worst place to live” has now secured a spot among the best staycation places in the country. Norwich, a city in England is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and theatres. 

The city is an excellent place for a staycation, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Norwich boasts a rich history, with attractions like Norwich Cathedral, Norwich Castle, and the medieval streets of Elm Hill. The city's well-preserved architecture provides a glimpse into its past.

In January last year, an online poll by ilivehere.co.uk rated it as the “worst place to live” with some residents criticising the city’s living standards. 

However, the latest round-up by the Telegraph has placed the city among the best staycation spots.


Elm Hill, Norwich, Norfolk, United Kingdom

The city is an excellent place for a staycation, offering a mix of history and culture (Image: Getty)

It said: “While Kent and Surrey are becoming renowned for their wineries, the vineyards of Norwich are more of a secret. The city’s Wine Week (June 14 to 16), however, aims to change this with a programme of talks and tastings.

“In fact, the week draws on an ancient history: the Romans were known to grow grapes in the region, meaning the local tipples have a long heritage. Tickets are £15, and include access to the events, live music, and plenty of samples.

“It’s a fine reason to visit, but that needn’t be the only lure: an afternoon could easily be spent at Yalm, an upmarket food hall in the centre of town. Or visit slightly later in the year, for Norwich Summer Sessions: free, live entertainment taking place across July and August.”


Norwich Cathedral seen through Erpingham Gate

Norwich Cathedral seen through Erpingham Gate (Image: Getty)

Apart from this, the city offers a fantastic shopping experience, from independent boutiques in the Norwich Lanes to the popular market. The city also has a vibrant food scene, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs.

The Norfolk Broads, a network of rivers and lakes, are just a short drive away. This area is perfect for boating, fishing, and wildlife spotting. 

Additionally, Norwich has several parks and green spaces, such as Eaton Park and Whitlingham Country Park.

There are many pretty restaurants where one can savor a meal. One can also experience the lively nightlife with a visit to one of the city’s historic pubs or trendy bars.



Hunsett Windmill on the Norfolk Broads

Norwich is a vibrant city with a wealth of activities (Image: Getty)

The city is also close to several picturesque seaside towns and interesting places that can be covered during the weekend trip. Places such as Great Yarmouth, Cromer, Blicking Estate, Wells-next-the-Sea and Thetford Forest Park are among the must-places to visit. 

Travellers have shared some useful reviews on TripAdvisor with hotels for all budgets such as Park Farm Hotel, Travelodge Norwich Central and Dunston Hall rated as "bestsellers". 

For instance, a weekend stay at Sprowston Manor Hotel & Country Club for June 15 and 16 shows £129. Similarly, the same dates at Dunston Hall would cost around £200. 

Norwich is easily accessible by train, car, and even plane via Norwich International Airport, making it a convenient destination for a staycation.

Top 10 staycation spots

10. Newcastle 

9. Queensferry

8. Wrexham

7. Norwich

6. Dundee

5. Ring of Gullion

4. Exmouth

3. The Malverns

2. The Calder Valley

1. Leeds.

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