Property in Norwich – Where to live in and around the city
When looking for a property in Norwich, there are several different areas to consider, and where you might look for a home can be influenced by your lifestyle, commuting needs, and priorities.
Here, we explore some of the most desirable places to live in and around Norwich, considering transport links, amenities, and housing options.
Commuting from Norwich
Norwich Railway Station is a key transport hub for the East of England. It offers regular and reliable services across the county and beyond. This is ideal for those who need to commute during the week or travel frequently.
One of its most notable routes is the Norwich to London Liverpool Street service, operated by Greater Anglia.
Trains run frequently throughout the day, with journey times averaging 1 hour 50 minutes with some faster trains available.
For regional connections, Norwich Station serves as a gateway to many of Norfolk’s most scenic areas:
- The Bittern Line: A picturesque route linking Norwich to the popular coastal towns of Cromer and Sheringham.
- The Breckland Line: Providing direct trains to Cambridge, passing through beautiful countryside.
- The Wherry Line: Offering services to Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft, with stunning views of the Broads National Park.
For road commuters, Norwich is well-connected via the A11, A47, and A140, making travel to Cambridge, Ipswich, and beyond straightforward. The City’s great transport links make property in Norwich a popular choice for homebuyers requiring connectivity for both work and leisure.
City Centre
Norwich city centre is a thriving hub of shopping, food, theatre, and history. Its high streets are full of big-name brands, while its charming cobbled streets boast fantastic local businesses. It is also home to the UK’s largest permanent outdoor market.
There are multiple trendy cafes, pubs, and restaurants to suit everyone’s taste.
Norwich has a thriving arts scene with popular theatres including the Theatre Royal and Norwich Playhouse.
A ‘fine city’ steeped in history, from its medieval castle to its stunning Norman Cathedral, Norwich is also a city that fully embraces modern life. The unique glass-fronted Forum is always buzzing with visitors, as is the Riverside Entertainment complex and Retail Park.
If you are looking for a property in Norwich with a river view, the banks of the River Wensum are full of modern one- and two-bedroom apartments. The city centre itself is a mixture of townhouses, listed buildings, and terraced properties.
Norwich Golden Triangle
Just west of the city centre is the Golden Triangle. Dubbed by locals as ‘the Notting Hill of Norwich’, it has a strong cosmopolitan vibe thanks to its mix of students, families and professionals.
With its tree-lined streets and wide range of shops, restaurants, cafés, and pubs, there is always a buzz about the area. Its strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere make it a very desirable location to move to. Additionally, there are local infant and junior schools which are highly regarded.
Property in Norwich’s Golden Triangle includes terraced houses, boasting both three-storey Edwardian properties and smaller Victorian homes.
The base of the ‘Triangle’ is formed by Colman Road, while the other two sides (Earlham Road and Newmarket Road) lead into the city centre.
Unthank Road runs down the middle and is a key shopping area for locals. It features multiple eateries and independent shops, as well as a florist, chemist, and small supermarket.
The Golden Triangle also contains (or is adjacent to) three public parks: Chapelfield Gardens, Heigham Park, and Jenny Lind Park. Often buzzing with families and social gatherings, they are popular locations for sporting activities, including tennis, running, and football.
Eaton
If you are looking for a property in Norwich in an area with a friendly village feel, the suburb of Eaton is ideal. Its boundaries stretch from Eaton Park to Eaton Golf Club, an eighteen-hole course set amongst attractive parkland. It also has its own supermarket, as well as a number of pubs, shops and schools.
Eaton Park is a popular spot for families thanks to its boating lake, miniature railway, and sports facilities
Eaton is full of many desirable properties and boasts the highest proportion of thatched buildings in Norwich. A highly sought-after residential area, Eaton is bordered by the River Wensum and is also home to the beautiful Marston Marshes.
Cringleford
Cringleford is a highly desirable place to live, particularly for professional people. This is largely due to its fantastic location, just 3 miles south-west of Norwich city centre.
It is situated close to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich Research Park and the University of East Anglia. It is also within easy reach of the A47, A11 and the A140 for those looking to commute.
Despite this, Cringleford has a great village atmosphere with many sought-after properties. With its popular local schools and an award-winning children’s play area, it is also a popular area for families.
Trowse
Nestled on the banks of the River Yare, the village of Trowse is one of a small family of model villages created during the 1800s for workers of Colman’s mustard factory.
As a result, it is an extremely picturesque location, with the new build properties in Millgate Meadow influenced by its period architecture. Many of the houses have sash windows, decorative plinths and elegant Georgian style porches.
Just 2 miles from the city centre, and with Whitlingham Country Park a short 5-minute drive, Trowse boasts a truly fantastic location.
Its regular village bus service makes it easy to pop in and out of the city, allowing you to enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside as well as the bustle of city life.
Best Schools in Norwich
Property in Norwich and the nearby areas is popular with families moving to Norfolk due to the many quality schools in the area, here are a selection:
Independent Schools
- Norwich School is considered by many as one of the best in the area. The independent school is located in the stunning grounds of Norwich Cathedral and caters to those aged four to eighteen. Boasting excellent facilities, and inspirational staff.
- Norwich High School for Girls is another popular private school for those aged three to eighteen. Its impressive 14-acre site is filled with outstanding facilities, including a heated swimming pool, four modern ICT suites, and a picturesque outdoor theatre.
Secondary Schools
- Notre Dame High School is a Roman Catholic school “inspired by the love of God and the teachings of Jesus”. Located in Norwich city centre, it also has its own sixth-form
- Jane Austen College Jane Austen College opened in September 2014 and has since a highly rated establishment. Located in the heart of Norwich beside the River Wensum, its sixth form remains among the top-performing in the area.
- City of Norwich School, Established in 1910, it has over 100 years of history. It boasts many impressive facilities including a purpose-built science centre, large playing fields, and an auditorium, it too has a popular sixth form.
Primary Schools
- Avenue Junior School is located within the Golden Triangle and is well-known for its excellent music and performing arts. Despite having no playing field, it does boast three large outdoor playing areas, as well as a purpose-built sports hall.
- The Free School Norwich is a single-form entry school with places for just 196 pupils aged four to eleven. Situated in the heart of Norwich in a beautiful Georgian house, it has a unique term structure with six terms throughout the year, each six weeks long.
- Finally, Magdalen Gates Primary School (known locally as “the village school on the edge of the city”) has a strong community spirit. It is recognised for its inclusive practice and pupil diversity, as well as its work with asylum-seeking and refugee families.
Looking for houses for sale in Norwich?
Whether you prefer city-centre living, suburban charm, or village tranquillity, Norwich has a wealth of property options.
If you are looking for a property in Norwich get in touch with Garrington Property Finders to discuss your requirements and receive expert guidance on finding the ideal home in Norwich.
