Norwich is a thriving city, featuring the original city walls from Roman times, offering excellent opportunities for business, eating out (wonderful artisan producers), and a wealth of cultural events from exhibitions in the world-renowned Sainsbury Centre for the Visual Arts to new theatre produced at Norwich Theatre Royal. There are excellent networks in place including the Norfolk Network ,where entrepreneurs and large companies exchange ideas. The University of East Anglia and Norwich University College of the Arts are also an important part of the education landscape. Originally the city thrived due to a booming shoe industry, Colmans Mustard and Caley’s Chocolate. Now there are banks, insurance companies, engineering companies, IT and other industries ensuring that the city has a vibrant and forward looking feel. The medieval heart of the city, featuring the cathedral and cobbled stones of Elm Hill, sits comfortably alongside newer developments including the Chapelfield Mall, and Riverside Retail park. There are many places to stay which are highly suitable for Maiden Voyage members, and plenty of options for entertainment during your visit.
Local business etiquette and customs
Norwich is typically British in terms of business etiquette and dress code. Formal suits are expected for many business occasions, unless there are other options as a result of particular context i.e. team building events or social activities. Women tend to wear suits or smart clothing, with the exception of creative teams and arts related activities which are usually much more relaxed and have less expectation of formality.
Travel and transport
The local bus services are not always reliable in terms of getting around the town, although it is always worth checking which routes will be most useful for you. I would recommend either walking or using 5 Star Taxis www.5startaxis.com
www.canary-taxis.co.uk are the only company who offer the option of a lady driver on their website. I have never had any problems with local taxis find them reliable and prompt.
There is a good train service to London and cross country, from Norwich Train Station. Megabus also runs frequent services and is an easy way to travel. There are flights from Norwich Airport which is easily accessible.
Dining
- Benedicts Restaurant (owned by chef Richard Bainbridge) – superb cooking and helpful staff who really take time and trouble to make sure you are enjoying your experience
- The Library (Jayne Raffles ) – a beautiful building and great ambience
- The Assembly House – good location for morning coffee or afternoon tea with a gorgeous Grand Hall and little booths in the Restaurant so dining on your own feels fine
- St Giles Hotel Bar
- The House Thai Restaurant
- The Last Wine Bar – also excellent food and relaxed atmosphere.
Women’s network and events
- Enterprising Women,
- Norwich Businesswomen
- Wire (Julie La Ronde)
- Norfolk Network (Lucy Marks – very useful and proactive contact)
Beauty and fitness
- Virgin Active – outside pool and gym,
- Q Hotels Dunston Hall – pool and fitness
- Marriott Sprowston Manor Hotel – pool and gym
- Maids Head Hotel Beauty Room – excellent treatments
- St Giles Hotel Spa – excellent and central
Safety and emergency services
Avoid Prince’s Street late at night as this is the main clubbing street and tends to get quite rowdy, although well policed. I don’t tend to walk solo on the outskirts of the town late at night but the centre is usually secure.
It is generally fairly safe and there are no other restrictions.
