5 interesting facts about Norwich

Origins

The origins of the city can be traced back to Anglo-Saxon times, and there are plenty of features present today that hark back to that era, like the two imposing gates, St. Ethelbert’s and Erpingham, which lead to the old Saxon marketplace, Tombland area. (Check out our bottomless brunch blog for some great venues in this area)

The name ‘Norwich’ was first coined by inhabitants living there in the late 10th century. Originally it was known as North Wic, a settlement north of the river Wensum.

The City

Norwich was England’s second biggest city for more than 700 years, and Norfolk’s most prosperous and populous city because of the wool trade. This is partly due to a large number of weavers fleeing to the city to avoid persecution in Belgium and Holland in 1565, the majority of which brought their canaries with them.

Many of the city’s inhabitants became renowned for their weaving, but also for their hobby of rearing canaries. This is why the bird can be seen on Norwich football club’s crest and why the team is nicknamed ‘the canaries.’

Famous and historical figures

Norwich is at the heart of a county that has produced several famous individuals over the centuries, chief of whom is Admiral Lord Nelson.

In fact, the county is nicknamed ‘Nelson’s County’ after the famous naval commander. Educated in a school located near Norwich cathedral, Lord Nelson led the British Navy to a number of wins during the Napoleonic War, the most famous of which was his victory at the battle of Trafalgar!

Contrastingly, the well-loved cook and culinary genius Delia Smith calls Norwich home, and. she’s also a joint majority shareholder of Norwich City F.C.