Why the Bridges and Churches Trail in Norwich is underrated

The Bridges and Churches trail is a 4.5-mile loop that meanders around some of the city's historic sites and offers one of the most underrated routes for a Sunday stroll.

THE ROUTE

Weaving around Norwich, the route has great accessibility with the majority of paths well maintained including some pavement - although it does involve some stairs.

As the saying goes Norwich has a pub for every day of the year and a church for every week and the trail manages to tick off 32 of the city's medieval churches.

A snowy Bishop Bridge and the Red Lion Pub on the River Wensum (Image: James Bass) The walk covers some of the best of Norwich's medieval architecture, starting on the banks of the River Wensum.

READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing star visits Norfolk restaurant

While tailing the river, the walk hits off some notable landmarks including the city's picturesque quayside and the 14th-century Cow Tower.

The Novi Sad Bridge in Riverside (Image: Denise Bradley) The twelve and final crossing, Carrow Bridge marks the last third of the walk before weaving down Ber Street towards Norwich Castle.

READ MORE: Why a group of celebrities spent the weekend at a Norfolk estate

The final segment twists through the Norwich Lanes and its more than 300 independent retailers, cafés, restaurants, pubs and bars, ending in St Benedicts Street.

FOOD AND DRINK

The Weavers Arms sits in Muspole Street just off Colegate (Image: Fixr Digital) The route also passes some of the city's best wine and dining spots.

In the first half, walkers may be enticed by The Weavers Arms in Colegate, with a menu serving elevated dishes inspired by French classics, the pub offers a great place to fuel up.

For some idyllic riverside views, ramblers may be tempted for a pint in Ribs of Beef or The Red Lion at Bishopgate to stay hydrated.

Walkers wanting their daily dose of caffeine or a lighter bite may choose to stop at the Ber Street Kitchen or the Two Magpies bakery in Timber Hill.