Pudding Tower
Step back in time at the Pudding Tower, a medieval gate that once guarded Great Yarmouth’s bustling port.
The Pudding Tower is a historic medieval gate tower in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, once part of the town's defensive walls. This plain square structure, built in the 13th century, stands as a reminder of the town's fortified past and offers a glimpse into its rich maritime and defensive heritage. Though much of the original wall has vanished, the tower remains a distinctive landmark, reflecting centuries of local history and community resilience.
A brief summary to Pudding tower
- Great Yarmouth, NR30 2EY, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere around the tower.
- Bring a camera to capture the historic architecture and the surrounding area.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the nearby South Quay to explore more of Great Yarmouth’s maritime history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking
From Great Yarmouth town center, walk east along St Nicholas Road for approximately 10 minutes to reach the Pudding Tower. The route is flat and accessible, with clear signage along the way.
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Bus
Take the local bus service to the South Quay stop, then walk north along St Nicholas Road for about 5 minutes to reach the tower. Buses run frequently during the day, with a fare of around £2 for a single journey.
Pudding tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Pudding tower
Medieval Origins and Purpose
Situated on what is now St Nicholas Road, the Pudding Tower was originally constructed as a gate in Great Yarmouth’s medieval town wall. Its name is believed to derive from nearby slaughterhouses where blood pudding was made, linking the structure to the town’s historic food trade. The tower was built in the 13th year of Edward I’s reign, with construction continuing for over a century, finally completed in the reign of Richard II. The town wall, of which the Pudding Tower was a part, was authorized by King Henry III in 1261 and was designed to protect the growing port town from invasion and unrest.Construction and Historical Challenges
The building of the wall and its towers was a massive undertaking, delayed by events such as the Black Death in 1349. The Pudding Tower itself was a simple, square design with a central gate, typical of the era’s defensive architecture. The wall stretched for over 2,280 yards and included ten gates and sixteen towers, with the Pudding Tower serving as a key entry point. The structure was built using local stone and brick, and its robust design reflects the importance of defense in medieval Great Yarmouth.Later Uses and Legacy
Over the centuries, the Pudding Tower and the surrounding wall saw various uses, from military defense to civic control. The tower was last manned during the English Civil War, after which its military significance waned. Today, the Pudding Tower stands as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, a testament to the town’s medieval past. While much of the original wall has been lost to time and urban development, the tower remains a distinctive landmark, offering visitors a tangible connection to Great Yarmouth’s history.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The Pudding Tower is a quiet, contemplative site, perfect for those interested in history and architecture. Visitors can walk around the tower, imagining its role in the town’s defenses and daily life. The surrounding area, once bustling with activity, now offers a peaceful atmosphere, with the tower standing as a silent witness to centuries of change. The site is easily accessible and provides a unique perspective on Great Yarmouth’s development from a fortified port to a modern seaside resort.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pudding tower
0.0 km
Step back in time at the Pudding Tower, a medieval gate that once guarded Great Yarmouth’s bustling port.
War Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute in Great Yarmouth honoring 619 service members and 162 civilians who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars.
English Heritage - Greyfriars Cloisters
0.5 km
Medieval Franciscan ruins revealing seven centuries of Norfolk's spiritual heritage and monastic life.
Medieval Town Wall
0.9 km
Explore England’s second most complete medieval town wall, a mile-long historic fortress with surviving towers and rich maritime heritage.
The Broads National Park
8.7 km
Explore the breathtaking waterways and rich wildlife of The Broads National Park, a hidden gem in Norfolk and Suffolk perfect for nature lovers.
St Olave's Priory
10.6 km
Discover St Olave's Priory, a historical gem in Great Yarmouth, where heritage and tranquility intertwine amidst stunning medieval architecture.
Discover the Norfolk Broads
11.9 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquil waterways of the Norfolk Broads, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in East Anglia.
Potter Heigham bridge
15.0 km
Discover the charm of Potter Heigham Bridge, an iconic historical landmark in the heart of Norfolk's stunning Broads, perfect for scenic walks and photography.
St. Benet's Abbey
16.5 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of St. Benet's Abbey, a historical gem in Great Yarmouth, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and rich heritage.
Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden
16.6 km
Explore the natural beauty of Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden, where lush landscapes meet serene waters in the heart of Norfolk.
Hickling Broad
16.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Hickling Broad, a premier nature reserve in Norfolk perfect for birdwatching, walking, and kayaking.
Ranworth Broad
18.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ranworth Broad, a tranquil waterway in Norfolk perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking peace and adventure.
Toad Hole Cottage Museum
19.1 km
Explore the Toad Hole Cottage Museum and dive into the rich history of the Norfolk Broads in a charming and serene setting.
Wheatfen Broad - Ted Ellis Trust
20.0 km
Explore the serene beauty of Wheatfen Broad, a nature reserve near Norwich, rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Barton Broad Boardwalk
20.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Norfolk's waterways at Barton Broad Boardwalk, a perfect destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
St George's Park
0.4 km
Urban green sanctuary connecting Great Yarmouth's town centre to the seafront with rose gardens, play areas, and maritime charm.
National Trust - Elizabethan House Museum
0.4 km
Explore the Elizabethan House Museum in Great Yarmouth, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and authentic architecture.
The Tolhouse
0.5 km
Explore Great Yarmouth’s 12th-century Tolhouse Gaol, a historic prison and courthouse turned immersive museum of crime and punishment.
Great Yarmouth Row Houses
0.6 km
Explore Great Yarmouth’s unique medieval merchant houses and historic Rows, a rare glimpse into centuries of urban life and maritime heritage.
Lord Choo Choo Land Train's Ltd (Britannia Pier - Haven, Seashore Holiday Park)
0.6 km
A charming miniature train ride on Great Yarmouth’s historic Britannia Pier, perfect for family fun and seaside nostalgia.
Old Merchant's House
0.6 km
Step into the past at Great Yarmouth’s Old Merchant's House, where maritime history and elegant architecture meet on the scenic South Quay.
Joyland
0.6 km
Classic seaside fun at Joyland, Great Yarmouth’s charming family amusement park since 1949, home to the iconic Super Snails and timeless rides.
Anchor Gardens
0.7 km
A peaceful coastal garden with iconic anchor-shaped flowerbeds, offering a serene escape on Great Yarmouth’s vibrant seafront.
Jurassic Journey
0.7 km
Explore the prehistoric world with animatronic dinosaurs and fossil digs at Great Yarmouth’s family-friendly Jurassic Journey.
Britannia Pier
0.8 km
Classic seaside fun with arcades, rides, live shows, and sea views on Great Yarmouth’s golden mile.
YarmouthBeachFront
0.8 km
Experience the classic British seaside at Great Yarmouth Beachfront, where golden sands, nostalgic amusements, and scenic views create a timeless coastal escape.
The South East Tower
0.8 km
Sleep within medieval walls: a 14th-century tower transformed into an extraordinary heritage holiday home.
Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life
0.8 km
Discover Great Yarmouth’s maritime heritage and vibrant coastal life in a beautifully restored Victorian fish curing works museum.
Hippodrome Circus
0.8 km
Britain's only surviving purpose-built circus, where Victorian spectacle meets contemporary artistry on the Norfolk coast.
Great Yarmouth Beach
0.9 km
Discover the golden sands and lively promenade of Great Yarmouth Beach, a classic British seaside destination with fun for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Alexandra Restaurant
0.2 km
A family-run gem in Great Yarmouth, serving hearty English and Mediterranean dishes in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Courtyard Italian Restaurante
0.4 km
Intimate Italian dining where handmade pasta and personal hospitality define every meal.
Charlie's Tapas Restaurant
0.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
The Arches
0.5 km
Traditional British pub fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Great Yarmouth
Quayside Plaza
0.5 km
Charming Mediterranean restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s South Quay, offering homemade dishes and warm, attentive service in an elegant setting.
Gilfreds Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic English carvery serving home-cooked roasts and traditional puddings with genuine Norfolk hospitality.
Zaks Yankee Traveller
0.5 km
Hearty American comfort food, generous portions, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
The White Swan
0.5 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood and traditional smoked fish in a welcoming Great Yarmouth setting.
Strollers Restaurant
0.6 km
Modern seaside dining with fresh seafood and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere at Strollers Restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade.
Charcoal Grill
0.6 km
Charcoal-grilled excellence meets Norfolk hospitality on the seafront.
Chico's Restaurant
0.6 km
Fresh seafood and hearty steaks served with friendly service on Great Yarmouth’s scenic Marine Parade.
Othello
0.6 km
Fresh Mediterranean flavors and seafood by the sea in Great Yarmouth’s vibrant Marine Parade.
Ocean Spray
0.6 km
Savor fresh seafood and premium steaks in a welcoming seaside setting at Ocean Spray, Great Yarmouth’s refined coastal dining destination.
JAN Restaurant
0.6 km
Award-winning fine dining in an intimate art deco setting overlooking Great Yarmouth's seafront.
Metropole Restaurant
0.6 km
Classic British seaside dining with genuine warmth and honest value on Marine Parade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Market Gates Shopping Centre (Great Yarmouth)
0.1 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Market Gates Shopping Centre, the ultimate destination for retail therapy and delightful dining in Great Yarmouth.
Lilleys emporium
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Lilleys Emporium, a charming market row gem in Great Yarmouth’s historic heart.
The Works
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Affordable creativity and learning essentials in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant market place.
Unique Crafts
0.2 km
Explore Unique Crafts in Great Yarmouth for one-of-a-kind miniatures and handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of local artistry.
Belzart
0.2 km
Discover mystical treasures and unique gifts at Belzart, a cozy and enchanting shop in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s Market Row.
Martyns Walk Round Store
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Martyns Walk Round Store in Great Yarmouth, the ultimate shopping destination for tourists.
Shelly's Emporium
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at Shelly's Emporium, a family-run gem on historic Regent Road in Great Yarmouth.
Branded Collectibles
0.2 km
Discover a vibrant world of licensed toys and pop culture memorabilia at Branded Collectibles in Great Yarmouth.
Steve's 'n' Mix
0.3 km
Traditional sweet shop on Regent Road offering classic British pick 'n' mix sweets and fudge gifts in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Craftmania
0.3 km
Premier craft supplies and materials for card-makers, scrapbookers, and creative enthusiasts in Great Yarmouth.
Cauldron37
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Cauldron37, a cozy boutique in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant Regent Street.
Cottage Jewels
0.3 km
Discover exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance at Cottage Jewels, Great Yarmouth’s premier jewellery boutique.
R&D Crafts
0.3 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and gifts in the charming Victoria Arcade of Great Yarmouth.
Handmade GIFTS AND CRAFTS From Bali
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Discover authentic Balinese handmade gifts and crafts in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant shopping scene.
Grasshopper
0.3 km
Discover authentic seaside treasures and locally crafted souvenirs in Great Yarmouth's most charming gift shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Feathers
0.1 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Great Yarmouth with affordable drinks, live sports, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Jube
0.1 km
Great Yarmouth's family-friendly sports bar and nightclub where entertainment meets community spirit.
The Coachmakers Arms
0.1 km
Great Yarmouth's beloved karaoke pub with nightly entertainment, reasonable prices, and Billy the parrot.
The Oliver Twist Freehouse
0.1 km
Lively freehouse pub with two bars, outdoor seating, and friendly staff in Great Yarmouth town centre.
The Market Tavern Public House
0.1 km
A traditional Great Yarmouth pub serving hearty British classics with warm hospitality in the heart of Market Place.
Theatre Tavern
0.2 km
Traditional Great Yarmouth boozer with affordable drinks, live entertainment, and genuine local character.
Troll Cart Wetherspoons Great Yarmouth
0.2 km
A vibrant Wetherspoon pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth offering affordable food, comfy rooms, and easy access to local attractions.
The Mariners
0.3 km
Traditional real ale pub where locals and visitors unite over quality beer and genuine Norfolk hospitality.
Peggotys Lounge
0.3 km
A lively pub and restaurant in Great Yarmouth offering great cocktails, tasty food, and a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Uptown Bar
0.3 km
Affordable and friendly bar in Great Yarmouth’s heart, perfect for casual drinks and lively social evenings.
Tombstone Brewery & Saloon Bar
0.4 km
Step into an Old West saloon with handcrafted ales brewed on-site, offering a unique real ale experience in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Prince Regent
0.4 km
A friendly, lively pub in Great Yarmouth with live music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a cozy patio garden.
Duke's Head Hotel
0.4 km
A historic waterfront bar in Great Yarmouth known for friendly service, quality casual dining, and a lively atmosphere.
The Kings Arms
0.4 km
A welcoming Great Yarmouth pub offering homemade British classics, local ales, and a friendly atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
Liberty's Rock Cafe
0.5 km
Historic seventeenth-century pub in Great Yarmouth offering traditional British ales and a lively social atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
