🌧️ Top 10 Rainy Day Experiences for Families in Norwich, Norfolk
- Pippa
- 19 hours ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 minutes ago
Rainy days don’t have to slow you down — Norfolk is full of brilliant indoor attractions that keep little ones entertained, dry, and happy. Here’s a full itinerary that families can dip in and out of depending on the weather, energy levels, and nap schedules.
1. Norwich Castle Museum
A perfect indoor escape with hands‑on exhibits, ancient treasures, and plenty to spark young imaginations. Great for a slow, cosy start to the day.
Norwich Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks — a striking Norman fortress that has watched over Norwich for more than 900 years
The castle’s newly restored Keep is the star of the show. Thanks to a major heritage project, the Keep has been transformed back to how it would have looked in 1121, complete with reinstated medieval floors, rooms, and furnishings. Families can wander through grand halls, peer into recreated chambers, and get a real sense of what life was like inside a Norman royal palace.
It’s now considered one of the UK’s most accessible castles, making it easy for families with buggies or little legs to explore comfortably.
2. Explore the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell
The Museum of Norwich is full of interactive displays, old toys, and Norwich history brought to life — ideal for curious kids.
Inside, the museum tells the story of Norwich from medieval times to the modern day. Families can explore ten galleries filled with engaging displays, hands‑on exhibits, and real stories from the people who shaped the city. It’s a brilliant way to understand how Norwich became the creative, independent‑spirited city it is today.
3. The Forum
The Forum is one of Norwich’s most iconic buildings — a bright, modern, glass‑fronted space right in the heart of the city.
Inside, you’ll find a lively mix of free exhibitions, family activities, cafés, events, and the Norfolk & Norwich Millennium Library, which is one of the most popular public libraries in the UK.
The Norfolk & Norwich Millennium Library is fully accessible, and packed with things to keep little ones entertained, from storybooks to craft sessions and cosy reading corners.
4. Head to Castle Quarter for Indoor Adventure
Castle Quarter is packed with rainy‑day favourites:
Indoor crazy golf
Bowling
Soft play
Arcade games
Perfect for burning off energy without stepping outside.
TIP: if you go to the cinema you can get money off your car parking if you've parked in the Castle Quarter car park - just remember to get your packing ticket stamped at the Vue.
5. Enjoy Lunch at a Family‑Friendly Spot
Norwich has plenty of cosy cafés and restaurants with children’s menus. Castle Quarter, Chantry Place, and The Lanes all offer great options.
6. Catch a Family Film at Vue or Odeon
A classic rainy‑day treat. Family screenings often run during weekends and school holidays — ideal for a calm hour or two.
7. Visit Norwich Cathedral
Norwich Cathedral is one of the most breathtaking historic buildings - a peaceful indoor wander with family trails, beautiful architecture, and the famous cathedral cat. Kids love exploring the cloisters.
The Cathedral sits within “the village within the city” — a peaceful, historic quarter with cobbled paths, lawns, and a riverside walk. It’s hard to believe you’re just minutes from the shops and cafés of Norwich.
8. Pop Into Chantry Place for Shopping & Treats
Fully undercover and full of family‑friendly shops, sweet treats, and places to sit. Great for a relaxed afternoon.
9. Indoor Trampoling Centre
Gravity at Riverside Norwich is a brilliant choice for families looking to burn off energy, stay dry, and enjoy a fun‑filled day out. With wall‑to‑wall trampolines, climbing walls, soft‑play style activities, and sessions designed for all ages, it’s a fantastic option for both little ones and older kids.
10. Head Back to Poolside Lodges for a Cosy Evening
After a full day of indoor adventures, return to the calm of your lodge.Settle in with:
A warm hot tub soak
A family movie night
Games in the lodge
A relaxed dinner together
Rainy days often turn into some of the most memorable ones.
🌴Poolside Lodges - Norfolk Cottages with hot tubs
Cosy family-run Norfolk accommodation featuring three holiday hot tub lodges, perfect for
Family getaways
Weekend escapes
Special celebrations
Group accommodation
Lodges can be booked individually or together for group of up to 10, making our site ideal for extended families and friends looking to relax and reconnect.
Every lodge includes its own private hot tub, available all year round, and guests can enjoy our shared seasonal pool from May through to the end of September. Whether you’re planning a sun‑soaked summer break or a cosy winter getaway, Poolside Lodges offers a welcoming escape in every season.
Email: info@poolsidelodges.co.uk
Address: Poolside Lodges, South Lodges, Salhouse Road, Rackheath, Norwich, Norfolk NR13 6LD
Call us on 01603 720000
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