Jarrolds: Norwich's Historic Family-Owned Department Store
Historic family-owned department store in Norwich blending heritage charm with modern retail across fashion, home, and local crafts.
Jarrolds is a historic, family-owned department store located in the heart of Norwich city centre at 1, 11 London Street. Founded in 1770, it has been a cornerstone of Norwich retail for over 250 years, combining traditional charm with modern shopping. The store offers a broad range of products including menswear, womenswear, homeware, beauty, and a local marketplace supporting small businesses. Its iconic baroque-style building, designed by George Skipper, stands opposite Norwich's bustling outdoor market.
A brief summary to Jarrolds
- 1, 11 London St, Norwich, NR2 1JF, GB
- +441603660661
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Explore the local marketplace section within the store to discover unique products from small Norfolk businesses.
- Take time to view the Heritage Wall on the top floor near The Pantry restaurant for a glimpse into Jarrolds’ 250-year history.
- Visit during weekdays to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience.
- Check out the beauty salon and day spa services available inside the store for a pampering break.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Frequent bus services run from Norwich Bus Station to stops near London Street, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4. Buses operate regularly throughout the day, but service frequency may reduce on Sundays.
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Train
Norwich Railway Station is about 1.5 km from Jarrolds. A taxi or local bus from the station takes 5-10 minutes and costs approximately £5-£8. Walking is possible in about 20 minutes along mostly flat, urban terrain.
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Car
Driving to Jarrolds is convenient with several nearby public car parks. Parking fees vary but typically range from £1.50 to £3.50 per hour. Note that London Street is in a busy city centre area, so expect some traffic congestion during peak hours.
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Walking
If staying in central Norwich, Jarrolds is easily accessible on foot. Walking times vary from 5 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point, with flat, paved streets suitable for all abilities.
Jarrolds location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Jarrolds
Origins and Enduring Family Legacy
Founded in 1770 by John Jarrold in Woodbridge, Suffolk, Jarrolds moved to Norwich in 1823 under John Jarrold II's leadership. It is one of the longest-standing family-owned businesses in Norwich, with members of the seventh generation still involved. Originally a grocer and draper, the company expanded into printing and publishing during the 19th and 20th centuries, producing notable works such as the first edition of Anna Sewell's Black Beauty. Today, Jarrolds focuses primarily on retail and property development, maintaining a rich heritage preserved in extensive archives held at the Norfolk Record Office.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The department store’s London Street building, designed by renowned Norwich architect George Skipper between 1903 and 1905, is a celebrated example of baroque style architecture. Skipper also remodeled the frontage in 1923, adding to the building’s historic character. The store’s exterior features stone columns and branded flags, reflecting its deep-rooted presence in the city since 1840. Jarrolds is not only a shopping destination but also a cultural landmark, with a Heritage Wall inside the store showcasing its history and contributions to Norwich’s commercial life.Shopping Experience and Product Range
Jarrolds offers a traditional department store experience with a diverse range of products. Menswear and beauty are located on the ground floor, womenswear on the first floor, alongside homeware, kitchen supplies, linens, and toys. The store also features a local marketplace space supporting small businesses, enhancing its community connection. Despite the challenges faced by many department stores in the UK, Jarrolds remains a vibrant, independent retailer blending heritage with modern retail trends.Community and Events
Beyond retail, Jarrolds has played an active role in the Norwich community, including sponsorship of local sports and cultural initiatives. The company’s archives and history are celebrated through exhibitions and publications, such as the 2019 book "Jarrold: 250 Years a History." The store’s longstanding presence and family ownership contribute to its unique identity and continued relevance in Norwich’s social and economic fabric.Legacy of Innovation and Adaptation
Throughout its history, Jarrolds has adapted to changing times, from expanding into printing and publishing to modernizing its retail offerings. The store has maintained traditional values while embracing innovation, such as creating a local marketplace within the store and balancing heritage with contemporary shopping needs. This adaptability has helped Jarrolds endure through two world wars, economic shifts, and evolving consumer habits.Preserving History for Future Generations
Jarrolds’ commitment to preserving its history is evident in its extensive archives and the Heritage Wall inside the store. The John Jarrold Printing Museum collection, now cared for by the Norwich Printing Museum, reflects the company’s historical importance beyond retail. Visitors can explore this rich legacy, gaining insight into the evolution of retail, publishing, and family enterprise in Norwich over more than two centuries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pull's Ferry
0.9 km
A tranquil 15th-century watergate and ferry house on Norwich’s River Wensum, blending rich medieval history with scenic riverside charm.
VisitNorwich
1.4 km
Discover Norwich Cathedral’s soaring Norman spire, medieval carvings, and tranquil cloisters nestled in a vast historic sanctuary.
Faircraft Loynes
11.8 km
Discover the beauty of the Broads with Faircraft Loynes, your premier boat tour agency and rental service in Wroxham, offering unforgettable waterway experiences.
Wroxham Bridge
12.0 km
Historic 17th-century bridge and vibrant boating hub connecting Wroxham and Hoveton on the scenic Norfolk Broads.
TourNorfolk
18.6 km
Discover the essential internet marketing services at TourNorfolk, where local charm meets digital expertise in the heart of Barton Turf.
Potter Heigham bridge
21.3 km
Historic 14th-century bridge and boating hub in Norfolk Broads, blending medieval charm with scenic waterways and vibrant village life.
Visit The Broads
29.2 km
Your gateway to exploring the enchanting waterways, wildlife, and heritage of the Norfolk Broads National Park.
Pudding tower
29.4 km
Explore Pudding Tower, a medieval defensive relic in Great Yarmouth, steeped in history and local lore from the town’s fortified past.
War Memorial
29.6 km
A solemn tribute in Great Yarmouth, honouring local service personnel and civilians lost in 20th-century conflicts with quiet dignity and enduring respect.
Nelson's Monument
30.0 km
A towering Doric column in Great Yarmouth honouring Admiral Nelson with panoramic views from its historic viewing platform.
Merrivale Model Village
30.1 km
Step into a whimsical world of miniature wonders, where every corner holds a surprise and the magic of the English countryside comes to life in miniature.
The Upside Down House - Great Yarmouth
30.1 km
Step inside Great Yarmouth’s quirky Upside Down House for a brief, disorienting, and highly Instagrammable experience that flips your world upside down.
Great Yarmouth Beach
30.2 km
Experience the lively charm and sandy stretches of Great Yarmouth Beach, Norfolk’s iconic seaside playground with piers, amusements, and tranquil dunes.
Britannia Pier
30.2 km
Historic Great Yarmouth pier blending classic seaside amusements, live shows, bars, and panoramic coastal charm for all ages.
National Trust - Felbrigg Hall, Gardens & Estate
31.1 km
Explore Felbrigg Hall, Gardens & Estate: A Historical Gem in Norfolk with Lush Gardens and Stunning Architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Norwich Castle
0.2 km
Explore 900 years of history and art in Norwich Castle’s majestic Norman Keep and internationally renowned museum galleries.
Castle Quarter
0.3 km
Castle Quarter Norwich: Five levels of shopping, dining, and entertainment in the city centre with cinema, bowling, and more.
Chantry Place
0.5 km
Norwich’s vibrant shopping centre with over 90 stores, diverse dining, and convenient city centre parking for a seamless retail experience.
Looses Emporium
0.6 km
Discover a labyrinth of vintage treasures and quirky antiques in Norwich’s beloved Looses Emporium on Magdalen Street.
The Plantation Garden
0.8 km
Norwich's volunteer-restored Victorian gem with Gothic fountains and woodland walks.
The Broads Authority
1.1 km
The Broads Authority at Yare House leads conservation and navigation management for the iconic Norfolk and Suffolk Broads National Park.
Cow Tower
1.1 km
Explore Cow Tower, Norwich’s rare medieval artillery blockhouse guarding the River Wensum with commanding views and rich history.
Whitlingham Country Park
2.6 km
280 acres of restored nature where gravel pits became lakes, perfect for water sports, wildlife watching, and family adventures.
RSPB Surlingham Church Marsh
7.7 km
Discover tranquil reed beds and rich wildlife at RSPB Surlingham Church Marsh, a Norfolk wetland sanctuary along the River Yare.
Ladybelt Country Park
8.1 km
A serene 21-hectare country park near Norwich blending woodland, heathland, and heritage for peaceful walks and wildlife encounters.
Wheatfen Broad - Ted Ellis Trust
9.9 km
Discover Norfolk’s hidden fenland gem where rare wildlife thrives in tranquil marshes and woodlands managed by the Ted Ellis Trust.
Strumpshaw Fen
10.7 km
Explore Norfolk’s tranquil Broadland sanctuary with rich wildlife, peaceful trails, and scenic river views at RSPB Strumpshaw Fen.
Salhouse Broad
10.9 km
Discover Salhouse Broad’s unique sandy beaches, rich wildlife, and tranquil Norfolk Broads setting for a peaceful nature escape.
Blofield Farm Shop
11.1 km
Authentic Norfolk flavors and farm-fresh produce in a welcoming rural setting near Norwich.
Barton House Railway
11.6 km
Volunteer-run miniature steam railway preserving Norfolk's railway heritage through seasonal operations and hands-on community engagement.
Essential places to dine
Roger Hickman's Restaurant
0.5 km
Elegant modern British fine dining with French flair in the heart of Norwich’s historic district.
The Cellar House
3.6 km
A charming family-run pub in Norwich’s Eaton district, blending traditional British hospitality with beautifully crafted modern cuisine.
Mark Poynton at Caistor Hall
4.8 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine in the elegant, historic Caistor Hall near Norwich.
The Wildebeest
6.7 km
Michelin Bib Gourmand fine dining near Norwich, blending seasonal Norfolk produce with modern British culinary artistry in a relaxed, elegant setting.
Stoke Mill STORE
6.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred contemporary dining in a historic 700-year-old watermill on the scenic River Tas near Norwich.
Stoke Mill Restaurant
6.7 km
Historic riverside mill turned elegant fine dining restaurant blending British tradition with contemporary culinary artistry.
The Kings Head
7.5 km
A charming 4-star gastropub and inn in Bawburgh blending historic character with exceptional seasonal dining and cozy accommodation.
The Ferry House
7.9 km
A charming riverside pub in Surlingham offering hearty British fare, peaceful views, and warm hospitality on the Norfolk Broads.
Wherrymans
11.9 km
A friendly riverside café and bar in Wroxham offering great coffee, casual dining, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Norfolk Broads.
The Old Mill
12.0 km
Family-run British café bar with classic breakfasts and grills, set by the riverside in Hoveton near the Norfolk Broads.
Rising Sun Coltishall
12.1 km
Charming riverside pub and inn in Coltishall serving hearty British fare with warm hospitality and scenic Norfolk Broads views.
King's Head Coltishall
12.1 km
Historic Norfolk gastropub blending award-winning British cuisine, cozy B&B stays, and scenic Broads views in charming Coltishall village.
New Inn, Horning
14.1 km
Charming riverside pub in Horning offering hearty British fare, scenic moorings, and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere on the Norfolk Broads.
Bure River Cottage Restaurant
14.2 km
An intimate Norfolk Broads seafood haven serving expertly crafted fresh fish and shellfish in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Maltsters
14.2 km
A welcoming family-run pub and restaurant in Ranworth offering hearty local dishes and a cozy atmosphere amid the scenic Norfolk Broads.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Norwich Lanes
0.1 km
Discover Norwich Lanes, a vibrant maze of independent shops, artisan cafes, and historic charm in the heart of Norwich city centre.
Inanna's Magical Gifts
0.1 km
Discover mystical treasures and handcrafted artistry at Inanna's Magical Gifts, Norwich’s premier metaphysical boutique.
Elm Hill Craft Shop
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and nostalgic treasures in the heart of Norwich’s historic Elm Hill at Elm Hill Craft Shop.
Cathedral Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique Norfolk crafts and Cathedral treasures at Norwich Cathedral’s charming Gift Shop in the historic Cathedral Close.
Anglia Square
0.8 km
Eclectic shopping and vibrant local character converge in Norwich’s distinctive Anglia Square urban centre.
A Piece Of Cake
11.7 km
Cozy tea room and bakery in Coltishall, serving fresh cakes, hearty breakfasts, and traditional British fare in a charming riverside village setting.
The Bridge Gift Shop
12.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and authentic souvenirs at The Bridge Gift Shop, a charming stop in the heart of Norfolk’s Broads.
Roys of Wroxham Department store
12.1 km
Discover traditional British charm and a vast array of goods at Roys of Wroxham, Norfolk’s iconic department store and festive shopping haven.
The Galley Horning
14.2 km
Discover the flavors of Norfolk at The Galley Horning, where gourmet deli delights meet charming cafe culture in a picturesque village setting.
Tidings
14.2 km
Discover Tidings, your go-to convenience store in Horning, offering essential supplies and local delights for travelers exploring the Norfolk Broads.
Ludham Bridge Stores
16.5 km
Charming general store offering fresh local produce, souvenirs, and essentials in the heart of the Norfolk Broads’ boating community.
Very Nice Things Gift Shop
19.6 km
Discover quirky gifts and seasonal treasures in the heart of Reepham’s charming market town.
Reedham Stores
20.1 km
A welcoming village convenience store offering local flavors and essentials in the heart of Norfolk Broads’ scenic Reedham.
Tucked Away Norfolk
20.5 km
Discover handcrafted Norfolk treasures in a charming barn setting at Tucked Away, North Walsham’s artisan gift shop.
Lathams of Potter Heigham
21.3 km
Norfolk Broads’ largest discount superstore and pet shop with extensive shopping, fishing tackle, garden centre, and artisan café.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Wallow | Self Service Wine Bar
0.1 km
Discover Norwich’s pioneering self-service wine bar offering over 50 wines, delicious sharing platters, and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.
Coldham Hall
9.5 km
Charming riverside pub and bespoke wedding venue on the scenic Norfolk Broads, blending rustic warmth with stunning natural views.
The Ferry Inn of Horning
13.8 km
A lively traditional pub on the Norfolk Broads offering hearty fare, riverside charm, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Innkeeper's Collection Norfolk Broads, Horning
14.2 km
Charming riverside inn on the Norfolk Broads offering cozy rooms, classic pub dining, and scenic waterway views in the heart of Horning village.
The Swan Inn
14.2 km
Charming riverside pub and inn in Horning offering cozy rooms, hearty British fare, and scenic views along the Norfolk Broads.
White Horse Inn Neatishead
16.6 km
Charming historic pub with award-winning ales, seasonal menus, and a welcoming atmosphere on the Norfolk Broads.
Dog Inn Ludham
17.0 km
A welcoming, dog-friendly pub in Ludham offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a cozy campsite in the Norfolk Broads.
The Lord Nelson
20.1 km
Charming riverside pub on the Norfolk Broads offering quality ales, fresh British fare, and private moorings in a welcoming community setting.
The Harnser
22.1 km
Historic pub and cozy B&B in Stalham Green, blending traditional Norfolk charm with gourmet dining and scenic countryside comfort.
Lady Haven
28.8 km
A cozy, affordable pub in Great Yarmouth offering friendly vibes and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Tombstone Brewery & Saloon Bar
29.1 km
Experience Great Yarmouth’s craft beer culture in a lively Old West saloon setting with award-winning ales and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Duke's Head Hotel
29.1 km
Historic coastal charm and friendly hospitality converge at Duke's Head Hotel, a welcoming bar and stay in Great Yarmouth’s heart.
The Mariners
29.2 km
A beloved Great Yarmouth pub famed for its rich selection of cask ales, lively atmosphere, and authentic British charm.
The Kings Arms
29.3 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Great Yarmouth serving homemade British classics with a charming beer garden and great value.
The Market Tavern Public House
29.3 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub in Great Yarmouth serving hearty British classics with generous portions and friendly service in a lively market setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Casual
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
