5 Family Friendly Walks in Norwich

The Wensum Walk takes you through the heart of Norwich, and the historic cathedral quarter.  You can see swans and other waterfowl on the river and depending on the time of day, you may catch a rare glimpse of an otter hunting near the riverbank.  The walk takes you through Norwich’s ancient past to the iconic watergate Pull’s Ferry, Cow Tower and the largest cathedral grounds in the country.

A wander around Cathedral Close is a pleasurable experience.  Containing over 80 listed buildings, The Close has charming Georgian properties that overlook a large green.

The nearest accessible disabled toilets are at Norwich Cathedral which also has a pleasant café and dining area, The Refectory that is open daily.  It is also worth visiting the observation point which allows a close-up view of the peregrine falcon nest to see the birds that have made the Cathedral their home.

Find out more about Norwich Cathedral and The Close here

Taverham Mill is a 100-acre site boasting spectacular views.  The Mill has 4 lakes and is ideal for nature lovers as well as a leisurely stroll with family members and elderly relatives.  For wildlife enthusiasts, the reserve offers grassland, woodland and water and flower meadows with a diverse range of wildlife.

Taverham Mill has a visitor centre, toilets and a children’s play area.  The area is also disabled friendly with good access and well-marked paths for wheelchairs although some areas of the site may not be suitable for wheelchair users unless accompanied.

The Mill has as a visitor centre offering a selection of refreshments.  Alternatively, why not take a picnic and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

Parking is free of charge, however there is a small charge for entrance to Taverham Mill.

Taverham Mill can be found at Costessey Road, Taverham

Built around 1460, the Mannington Estate is located 19 miles north of Norwich towards Cromer and Sheringham and is in an ideal spot for a longer day out.

The gardens are located around a medieval moated manor with a classic temple, and on the South Lawn is a Sensory Garden with a water feature.  Those with dementia may benefit from a visit to the Sensory Garden as familiar scents or colourful bouquets can often spur happy memories.

With plenty to explore, the Estate has a boardwalk giving access to a 4.3 hectare wet wildflower meadow.  Here is an observation hide with wheelchair access that looks across a tranquil stretch of water.

Refreshments are available in the onsite Walpole’s Kitchen which provides simple food full of flavour, and there are disabled toilets.

Find Mannington Gardens on the B1149 Norwich to Holt Road.

Exploring vibrant Norwich and its surrounding areas is a pleasure when there is so much to visit.  Having been voted East Anglia’s best place to live in 2022, Norwich is not short of exciting places.

If you are considering home care and activities to support an elderly relative, give the Home Instead Norwich team a call on 01603 963317 and we will be happy to provide you with all the information you require.

Known as Norwich’s Secret Garden, situated next to St. John’s Cathedral in the Golden Triangle area of the city, the Plantation Garden is in a beautiful location with an array of colourful flowers, a greenhouse and a Gothic Fountain dating back to 1857.

Rich in history, The Plantation Garden is a relaxing place to visit to sit and admire the landscape and decorative walls.

Open from 9 am – 6 pm, the Garden has a small admission price for adults and is free for accompanied under 16s.  The entrance and the main part of the garden are fully accessible, however there are some steep steps at the Italian Terrace and slopes on the woodland paths.  There is a disabled accessible toilet which is open when events are taking place, and at all other times, the neighbouring St. John’s Cathedral has disabled toilets.

The nearest parking is adjacent to the garden on Earlham Road.

Situated southeast of Norwich in Trowse, Whitlingham Country Park is a great place to visit.

With a 2.3 mile walking route, the park is disabled friendly with access for wheelchair users and two all-terrain wheelchairs are available to book from the visitor centre.  You can wander through the meadows exploring the wildlife such as butterflies, fungi and waterfowl species, stop for a picnic at the dedicated picnic site or watch what’s going on in the activity centre.

There is a car park with disabled parking and disabled toilets are at the Visitors Centre.

For a pit stop after a good walk, Flint Barn Café is open from 9 am – 5 pm serving homemade cakes and a breakfast & lunch menu.

Whitlingham County Park is situated on Whitlingham Lane in Trowse.