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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Andrew Bensley
a week agoNewly reopened Norwich castle 2025. Well worth the visit, it's a combination of walking around a historical castle, museum exhibits and artefacts, fine art, natural history and a WW2 exhibit. There are screenplays/shows in the great hall which briefly go over the history of the castle, and there are good views out the windows and across the battlements. All items in exhibits are labelled and described, and there are display boards around the actual castle interior explaining parts of daily medieval life or the significance of certain design/areas of the castle. There are historical arms and armour on display if after pieces for artistic reference. The well is very very deep.
Skinny
a month 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.
JENNIFER TAYLOR
2 weeks agoThe whole experience is visitor friendly from young to old. Much appreciated the lifts to all floors including the battlements for the amazing views. The museum full of artefacts, clearly labelled again interactive for children to enjoy.
Sue Dedman
a month 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.