Norwich has an abundance of parks and gardens, creating a feeling of space and tranquillity. Tenderly cared for, with seasonally planted flowerbeds, many are open all year round for visitors to enjoy.

Plantation Garden – This garden was created between 1855 and 1890 in what was originally a quarry. This Victorian garden has a tranquil ambience and is tucked away just 600 yards from the city centre. It is reached from Earlham Road by a sloping path so some wheelchair users and the less able may find it difficult to reach.

Chapelfield Gardens – These gardens are situated in the heart of the city and have a toddlers’ play area, café and giant chess/draughts during the summer. It also plays host to events throughout the year.

Earlham Park – Located adjacent to Earlham Hall and the University of East Anglia, this park has wooded grounds that run down to the River Yare, as well as open spaces for walking and all types of recreation. It is also a venue for various open-air events throughout the year.

Eaton Park – Found near Colman Road, this large park has sports facilities for football, tennis, eighteen-hole pitch and putt, bowls and croquet. There is a children’s play area, model yacht pond and plenty of open space for many other activities.

Castle Gardens and Green – These gardens are in part of the original castle ditch. During the summer months, as part of the ‘Theatre in the Park’ programme, productions are staged. The Castle Green lies next to the castle and provides excellent views of the city and has a small play area.

Wensum Park – This is on Drayton Road and lies beside the River Wensum. There is a children’s play area, paddling pool and a picnic area. Its riverside setting means there are plenty of wild birds to be spotted in this very attractive park.

Waterloo Park – This park is found between Aylsham Road and Angel Road, north of the city. It has a very well equipped children’s play area with a paddling pool. There are sports facilities for putting, bowls and tennis and the park boasts the country’s longest herbaceous border.

Heigham Park – This was the first purpose-built park in the city and is situated on The Avenues. There is an enclosed children’s play area, very attractive landscaping and sports facilities for tennis and bowls.

Sloughbottom Park – Found on Hellesdon Hall Road, this park has football and cricket pitches and play areas for children.

Mousehold Heath – The heath’s undulating woodland tracks cover an area of 184 acres and are very popular with walkers. Its highest point, St James’ Hill, beside Britannia Road, offers an incomparable view of the city all year round. There is an eighteen-hole pitch and putt golf course, football pitches, nature trails and picnic areas.