Owners of businesses in one of the trendiest shopping destinations in the UK have spoken out about what makes it "the gem of the city".
The Norwich Lanes is widely regarded as a focal point for independent retailers to thrive packed with shops, bars, restaurants and music venues in its historic streets.
And after being named one of the best places in the UK for independent shops, in a recent survey, those who make up the Lanes share what makes the area such a hotspot.
HISTORY AND CHARM
Bradley Brady opened Cosmic Jo's, a retro toy collectables shop in Bedford Street, last year and said the Lanes was a natural home.
He said: "There's so many independent shops here we really felt like we'd fit in.
"I've noticed that people who come to Norwich to shop, especially those from outside the city, love the Lanes because it's got such an exciting range of different shops and experiences.
"It's something you don't get in most highstreets now - some are quite homogenous and have quite a lot of the same things in them.
"But the Lanes isn't like that, I think it's one of the gems of the Norwich.
"It has a history and charm which makes it such a welcoming place for people to explore."
IT'S AN EXPERIENCE
Pascale Smets is the owner of homeware shop Pascale in Swan Lane, which opened a couple of months ago.
She added: "I love the way it's this warren of streets and it's so pretty people take a little bit more time walking through.
"It's not just a way of cutting through to get somewhere else, people are looking and experiencing the Lanes.
"We've got a lot of interesting shops around us as well which attracts people and it all works together.
"I'd say people come here for an experience as opposed to just going somewhere to buy their usual household items.
"My son went to university in York and they have a similar place known as the Shambles and it's like that.
"The Lanes has a name and is more than just going to the shop, it's wonderful."
A spokeswoman for restaurant Benedicts, in St Benedicts Street, said: "We love our position in the heart of the Lanes.
"This street in particular has established itself as a foodie destination with numerous independent cafes, bars and eateries.
READ MORE: REVEALED: New shop preparing to open in Norwich Lanes
"Couple this alongside the interesting boutiques, art shop and Stranger's Hall it's a great place."
NO SURPRISE IT'S SO POPULAR
Retail experts recently ranked the Lanes 10th in the top 10 hotspots for independent shops.
Factors such as the number of independent outlets, variety of business types and vibrancy of the high street, were taken into account when deciding the rankings.
A Norwich Lanes spokesman said: "The Norwich Lanes are the largest city centre, all independent business community, to be found anywhere in the UK so it's no surprise it's in the top 10.
READ MORE: Proposal for kebab shop on city centre outskirts mysteriously withdrawn
"It's home to more than 500 independent retailers, restaurants, bars and also hosts an award-winning arts centre, community theatre and an independent art house cinema too."
LANES HISTORY
Before it was crammed with a variety of shops, the Lanes was once the target for Nazi bombs after it was attacked during the Blitz in 1942.
The Guildhall, England's largest medieval city hall, acts as the entrance to the Lanes while Maddermarket Theatre has staged performances since 1921.
While it still boasts some of the city's best pubs such as the Rumsey Wells and Ten Bells, it has also lost some much loved boozers including the Birdcage and the Ironmongers Arms.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel