5 places in Norwich named among the best in the UK in 2023

Here are some of the places in Norwich that were named among the best in the country in 2023.

1. Norwich Castle

The castle was named one of the most incredible buildings in the world (Image: Denise Bradley)

Australian magazine Traveller named Norwich Castle among Notre-Dame Cathedral as one of the "most incredible buildings in the world" in 2023.

The castle was started to be built by William the Conqueror after the Battle of Hastings and completed by his son, Henry I, in 1121.

A major development costing £15m is under way on the medieval keep to restore it to its 12th-century glory.

2. Bread Source

Bread Source bakery was named as one of the best bakeries in the UK (Image: Newsquest)

The Norwich chain got national recognition after being named in the top five in the British Baker's list of best artisan bakeries in the country. 

The bakery, which opened in 2012, has rapidly expanded across Norwich with locations in Upper St Giles, the Refectory Café at Norwich Cathedral, Bridewell Alley, Norwich Market, Magdalen Street and Marriott Close.

The accolades didn't stop there for the bakery as it was also named best in Norfolk at the National Bakery Awards in May.

3. Gonzo's Two Room

One of Norwich's nightclubs was crowned as one of the best in Britain (Image: Rupert Taylor)

The city nightclub has followed in the footsteps of world-famous institutions like the Ministry of Sound to be named one of the best in the UK.

The club in London Street was a finalist in the DJ Mag's Best of British Awards in December.

Mike Baxter, one of the Gonzo's Two Room owners, said: "To be included among such nightlife giants is beyond humbling."

4. Gyre & Gimble Gin

Gyre and Gimble has gained international attention (Image: Newsquest)

The Norwich-based gin company won the UK Gin Producer Trophy at the International Wine and Spirits Competition in October.

The gin distillery and cocktail bar opened in Norwich's Charing Cross in November 2019.

The bar itself gained recognition after being crowned the best bar in Norfolk by Muddy Stilettos.

Co-owner Craig Allison said: "The IWSC is the world's largest and most influential spirits competition.

"To be awarded the overall UK Gin Producer of the Year is a huge feat and a real testament to the whole team."

5. The Assembly House

The afternoon tea was ranked as being one of the best in Britain (Image: Steve Adams)

The hotel at the heart of the city was named as having one of the best afternoon teas in the country earlier this year.

The Sunday Times named them alongside The Ritz, Fortnum and Mason and Claridge's on the prestigious list.

Andy Lynes, who complied the article, wrote: "The high-ceilinged, panelled dining hall, hung with crystal chandeliers, makes a splendid location for a refined but relaxed afternoon tea."