The Royal Norfolk Regimental Museum in Norwich Castle displays a rich and varied collection of objects, photographs and archive material illustrating the county Regiment’s 300-year history.
It’s not just medals, weaponry and uniforms. Items on display include a Sergeant Major’s pace stick, teacups from Korea, a portable altar used on the Western Front and spices used during the Crimean War to make rations a bit more palatable.
The displays focus on the experience of life as a soldier in peace time and conflict. The main section deals with the 20th century – the First and Second World Wars and the National Service years, including the Cyprus Emergency and Korean War.
Listen to descriptive and poignant letters from soldiers. See detailed sketches by Cecil Upcher, a Norwich architect, of his accommodation and dugouts in 1915-16 and transform them into 3D models at the touch of a button.
The Serving the Empire display is a case devoted to the days when young men looking for employment and adventure might leave their local village for the Northwest Frontier or the heat of Africa. An specimen insects are shown next to Afghan firearms and exquisite items from Tibet.
The Life of a Soldier case contrasts equipment and activities of the past with those of today, such as a leather bell topped shako with a modern Combat Assault Mk7 Helmet.
Touchscreens provide additional information on each of the objects displayed and the history of the Regiment from 1685 to 1959, as well as exploring various aspects of Army life.
The library and archive are housed in the adjacent Shirehall and can be viewed by appointment.
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Skinny
2 weeks agoTo anyone planning a visit, I would strongly advise booking your ticket for the newly refurbished Norwich Castle in advance. This helps you skip the main queue, though you should be prepared for a short wait even with an online ticket. It's well worth it! The newly refurbished Norwich Castle is an incredible place to visit. I was impressed by the exhibits, especially the art from the Second World War, and the beautiful views from the top of the building was beautiful and blown mind. My only concern was with the long queue. I have a card that indicates I have a disability and can't stand for long periods. When I explained this, the first person I asked said they couldn't help. Thankfully, a second person saw my distress and was kind enough to provide a seat for me while I waited. This made a huge difference. Thank you to that helpful staff member. I hope the castle considers better ways to assist people with disabilities in the future.
Ian Fulcher
2 weeks agoVisited to see the new changes. Was a little 'sterile' and very different. The lighting in the new Grand Hall was annoyingly bright and prevented looking upwards to see the ceiling timbers and construction. Pleased that the old Victorian exhibits are still there in all their amazing glory. Great to walk up.tomthe battlements for syperbs views across the fine City of Norwich.
Sue Dedman
3 weeks agoWe had a fabulous time today exploring the castle. Well worth the entrance fee and so much to see and do with the children too. The refurbishment is brilliant. The views from the top are amazing.
Richard Bishopp
a month agoThe castle makeover of the keep and roof is fantastic. Bright inside with beautiful wood beams and spacious to walk around. Lots of interactive activities for children like costumes and things they can touch. The roof terrace is amazing and worth the fee for the viewing. A great platform to see the city. The museums are the same as before for the art, stuffed animals and T pots. The cafe area is better designed. Worth a visit, great for kids.
Philip Arkinstall
a month agoExcellent reconstruction of the interior of the castle Keep. Nice to see a direct route up to the Bigod Tower. Floors restored to 1121 level to show celebration of Henry I. Video presentations were beautiful and space to admire the fabric of the building as well as the newly restored rooms. A little difficult to find amenities like the toilets, but signage over time will rectify this. Fantastic day spent exploring the newly refurbished Keep. The British Museum exhibition was beautiful and access the battlements via lift out of this world!