Once home to the likes of the Celts, the Romans and the Anglo-Saxons, Norwich is one of the oldest and most historically rich cities in the country.

Home to popular tourist attractions such as Norwich Castle, the Cathedral and market, the city has much more to offer if you stray a little off the beaten track.

Here are five of the best history experiences and walking tours in Norwich you may not have tried yet. 

Eastern Daily Press: Curator Jenny Caynes and Nigel Back, one of the Freemen of Norwich, outside the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell,Photo: Mark Ivan Benfield

1. Kett’s Rebellion VR Experience at the Museum of Norwich

Where: Wild Man, 5 Bridewell Alley, Norwich, NR2 1AQ

Price: Free with admission to the Museum of Norwich 

www.visitnorwich.co.uk

Step back in time to 1549 to witness Robert Kett's rebellion with your own eyes in stunning virtual reality.

Suitable for ages 12 and up, the immersive experience follows the rebel's progress from the early days at camp in Mousehold Heath to the final battle at Dussindale when Norwich was at the heart of the last public revolt in England.

Eastern Daily Press: The Shoebox Community Hub, in Castle Meadow, is hosting a Thank-you Day on July 4, thanking unpaid carers and volunteers.

2. Norwich’s Hidden Street Tour

Where: 21-23 Castle Meadow, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 3DH

Price: Adult £15, child 4-12 £8, children under 4 free

www.theshoebox.org.uk

Most people could probably not imagine a secret world hidden beneath Castle Meadow but venture down below with The Shoebox to discover the hidden tunnels, prison cells and curious streets that lie forgotten beneath.

Eastern Daily Press: Explore Norwich Cathedral on Paul Dickson's city tours.

3. Norwich On The Darkside Guided Tour

Where: Meet outside The Erpingham Gate, Tombland, NR3 1HF

Price: £8 

www.pauldicksontours.co.uk

Spanning a lengthy one hour, 45 minutes, Paul Dickson's guided walking tour is a must for those looking to investigate the darker side of the city's past.

Covering everything from grisly tales of the Plague, the horror of Lollard's Pit, to celebrated Victorian murders and executions ... be sure you've got a strong stomach for it.

Eastern Daily Press: Explore Elm Hill on the Tavern Trail walking tour, pictured is tour guide Lisa Willett.

4. The Tavern Trail Tour

Where: 21-23 Castle Meadow, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 3DH

Price: Adult £15

www.theshoebox.org.uk

Embarking across the city in groups of up to 15 people, The Tavern Trail is a two-hour walking experience that follows the river and visits some of the oldest pubs in the city, accompanied by tales of body snatching, swan keeping, and smuggling. You even get a pint at the end. 


Eastern Daily Press: The Great Hall at Strangers' Hall. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY

5. Strangers Hall Guided House Tour

Where: Strangers’ Hall, Charing Cross, Norwich, NR2 4AL

Price: Adult £6.20, child £5.30

www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk/strangers-hall

Though currently closed for an annual deep clean until Wednesday, February 22, Strangers Hall is no stranger to keeping secrets.

Book now to visit the wonderful examples of a 14th Century merchant house, Tudor Great Hall, Georgian Dining Room and the magnificent stone-vaulted under-croft. Guided tours take place on the last Wednesday of each month and are from 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Tickets include museum admission.