The Keep of Norwich
Norwich Castle is a remarkable Norman fortress and is now a thriving museum with galleries on various aspects of Norfolk’s military history
Founded by William the Conqueror sometime during 1066-75, Norwich Castle was initially a motte and bailey fortification, with its stone keep constructed during 1095-1110. This impressive structure still stands today and has witnessed many events in the city’s history, including the castle’s capture during the revolt of 1173-74 and its role as a county jail for 500 years. A museum since 1894, Norwich Castle now contains outstanding galleries of archaeology, regimental history, natural history and a variety of fine, decorative and contemporary art.
Two galleries of note for military history enthusiasts are ‘Boudica and the Romans’ and another commemorating the Royal Norfolk Regiment. The former explores the story of the
Iceni queen’s bloody revolt against Roman rule and contains reconstructions and the famous
Snettisham Treasure hoard of Iron Age gold and silver. The gallery also contains the Worthing
Helmet – an exceptionally rare Roman bronze cavalry helmet.
The galleries commemorating the Royal Norfolk Regiment have a rich and varied collection that illustrates the county’s 300-year regimental history. Displayed artefacts include a portable altar used on the Western Front during WWI and even spices that Crimean War soldiers used to make their rations more exciting. Visitors can explore all aspects of the regiment’s history, from its colonialera service and the World Wars to post-war conflicts in Korea and Cyprus.