Norwich, the county town of Norfolk and its only city, is steeped in history. If you’re looking to continue that theme when choosing a hotel for the duration of your visit, look no further than The Maids Head – oh, and don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten the apostrophe in the name, it’s never had one!
This fine 4-star hotel has many pluses, including its own car park, attractive rooms, smashing restaurant, friendly staff and an ideal location, right in the thick of the action in Norwich’s Cathedral Quarter. While the stunning cathedral – which is over 900 years old and boasts the highest Norman-built tower in England – is just across the road, you’re within walking distance of all the city’s main attractions, such as the castle, which houses the main museum and art gallery.
It’s claimed that The Maids Head is the oldest hotel in Britain; of course, it’s difficult to verify this but one thing is certain: as it dates back over 800 years, it definitely possesses a rich heritage. While it has retained much of its olde-worlde character and charm, it has managed to keep up with the times in terms of what one expects from a hotel these days, like free wi-fi.
Everyone is friendly and helpful, including staff in the award-winning restaurant, the WinePress@Wensum. Here, they aim to create an “unstuffy” atmosphere and certainly achieve their goal: everyone is relaxed and efficient as they go about their duties dishing up delicious food. Anyone who enjoys a glass of vino is well catered for because 40 different wines are available by the glass, including some rare examples. If it’s just a drink you’re after, the Jacobean oak-panelled bar is atmospheric and real ales (including local brews) and lagers are served.
Our family bedroom was very spacious, comfortable and tastefully decorated – the exposed solid beamed ceiling sets the tone. It provided everything we needed, including hairdryer, ensuite and tea/coffee-making facilities. There is a choice of 84 rooms, everything from standard doubles to historical feature rooms. It’s rumoured that Queen Elizabeth I stayed in one of the suites when she visited the city in 1587; and she isn’t the only famous person who has stayed here. The roll call of celebrity guests includes Morecambe and Wise, David Niven, Reg Varney and Cilla Black. And during the ’70s, Anglia TV used the hotel extensively for its contestants appearing on popular quiz show, Sale of the Century.
The hotel’s public spaces, including seating areas, lobby and corridors, are immaculate and typify the high standards one has come to expect at The Maids Head. We highly recommended it and would jump at the chance of staying again when we return to Norwich in the future.
More information:
20 Tombland
Norwich
Norfolk NR3 1LB
www.maidsheadhotel.co.uk. tel: 01603 209955
www.visitnorwich.co.uk, tel: 01603 213999
For information on Norfolk, visit www.visitnorfolk.co.uk