Sponsored Blog
This Christmas, VisitNorwich and Norwich Business Improvement District have partnered with Norfolk Museums Service to bring a fun, free, family trail to Norwich!
In 1121 – 900 years ago – King Henry I chose Norwich Castle as the venue for his Christmas court. And the Christmas Crown Trail is part of the celebration of this special anniversary.
Over 90 businesses across Norwich have hidden crowns in their window and in store displays for eager trail-hunters to spot. Shops, restaurants, hotels and iconic historic buildings are all part of the trail, where there’s hard to spot crowns, edible crowns, paper crowns, flower crowns and more to be found! Trail followers – be eagle eyed as the crowns vary in shape, size and material! Some are hidden in plain sight, and some will be a challenge to find.
Aimed at all ages to enjoy, there are four different trails to follow, taking you to parts of the city, old and new.
The Purple Trail is a real journey through time, taking you from the medieval Norwich Castle to the Tunnel of Light. Make sure you stop by The Royal Arcade to treat yourself to some chocolate crown creations from Saffire and see if you can spot a crown being sported by a monkey at Sonkai! Spend some time at Norwich Market to grab a snack and visit all the stalls that have hidden crowns.
For those wanting a fun activity to do alongside a spot of Christmas shopping, the Gold Trail is perfect. Centred in The Lanes – Norwich’s independent heart – there’s plenty of unique gifts to be found here. Head to Norwich Art Shop, where you’ll not only find beautiful pieces of art, but you’ll get the chance to enter their ‘count the crowns’ competition for a £25 gift voucher!
The Red Trail is ideal for anyone wanting a longer, peaceful walk in the city. It will take you along the river and up to the beautiful and historic Norwich Cathedral and Elm Hill. See if you can find the tiny crowns at The Bear Shop, or if you can count all the paper crowns at the Norwich Study Centre.
Last but not least is the Green Trail. A real quest, this trail features some hidden gems just outside the city centre. Spend some time at St Augustine’s where several businesses are part of the trail. Grab a delicious Danish pastry from Fra.Kost and browse unique gifts, vintage fashion and retro furniture as you hunt for crowns at Little Green Smiths, Jublique, Norfolk Retro and more!
And don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for moving crowns! You may see some on the Park & Ride buses as they journey around Norwich.
It couldn’t be easier to get involved. Simply pick up a trail map and get going! Get your map from the Norwich City Hosts, the Journey Through Christmastime pop-up stall at Norwich Market (stalls 138 & 139 until 17 December), rack stands throughout the city including at Norwich Railway Station, or you can download a copy from the VisitNorwich website.
You can also download your free Mumbler/VisitNorwich Christmas Activities Sheet to print and colour in as you complete them…
Visit Norwich/Mumbler Christmas Countdown
