Kings Head
Norwich's legendary cask ale destination where quality beer and conversation reign supreme.
A traditional two-bar cask ale pub located in Norwich's city centre, serving up to 14 hand-pumped real ales and ciders, predominantly from East Anglian microbreweries. This welcoming free house has been a cornerstone of Norwich's ale scene since 2005, earning CAMRA Pub of the Year recognition five times. No keg beers, food machines, or music—just quality beer and conversation in an authentic English pub atmosphere.
A brief summary to Kings Head
- 42 Magdalen St, Norwich, NR3 1JE, GB
- +441603620468
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to experience the full range of hand-pumped ales, as popular selections sell out quickly. The pub's changing beer list means each visit offers new discoveries from East Anglian microbreweries.
- Access the main bar via the side entrance through the courtyard. The large communal table opposite the main bar is perfect for meeting other ale enthusiasts and engaging in the pub's celebrated conversation culture.
- Bring food from nearby local takeaways—the pub provides plates and cutlery. Alternatively, enjoy traditional snacks and pork pies available on-site.
- Ask staff for recommendations on rare beer styles such as stouts, porters, and milds, which are regularly featured. The knowledgeable team genuinely cares about matching you with the perfect pint.
- Visit during quieter midweek hours (Tuesday-Thursday afternoons) for a more relaxed atmosphere and better access to the bar staff's expertise without the weekend crowds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Discover more about Kings Head
A Traditional Ale House
The Kings Head stands as one of East Anglia's finest real ale establishments, located at 42 Magdalen Street in Norwich's vibrant city centre. This traditional two-bar free house has earned its reputation as a mandatory stop on the Norwich cask ale trail since 2005. The pub maintains an unwavering commitment to quality cask ales, serving up to 14 hand-pumped selections alongside local ciders, with no keg beers served whatsoever. The philosophy is simple: great beer, good conversation, and authentic pub hospitality.Curated Beer Selection
The ever-changing beer lineup showcases predominantly Norfolk and East Anglian microbreweries, with carefully selected guest beers from respected breweries such as Mighty Oak, Green Jack, and Derby Brewing. The range consistently includes rare beer styles such as stouts, porters, and milds, ensuring variety for discerning ale enthusiasts. Two local ciders are regularly available, occasionally complemented by perry, and a substantial selection of bottled European beers caters to those seeking continental options. The pub's ownership by Stephen and Lesley George since 2013—who also own the Humpty Dumpty Brewery—ensures knowledgeable curation, though their own brewery's beers appear only rarely on the taps.Authentic Pub Experience
The Kings Head deliberately eschews modern pub trends: no fruit machines, no jukebox music, and no kitchen. This commitment to tradition creates an environment focused entirely on the art of conversation and the appreciation of quality beer. The main bar, accessed via a side entrance through the courtyard, features a large communal table opposite the bar—a deliberate design choice encouraging social interaction among patrons. The pub supports three teams in the local bar billiards league, fostering a genuine community atmosphere. Snacks and pork pies are available, and the pub welcomes patrons to bring food from nearby local takeaways, providing plates and cutlery upon request.Recognition and Community Standing
The Kings Head has received CAMRA Branch Pub of the Year recognition five times, reflecting its exceptional standing within the real ale community. The pub remains open on Christmas Day from noon to 2 PM, demonstrating its commitment to serving the local community year-round. This is the English pub as a home from home—a place where quality beer meets genuine hospitality and where every visit contributes to a living tradition of authentic pub culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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St George Colegate
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Whitefriars Bridge
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Norwich Preservation Trust
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St. George's Bridge
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The Maids Head Hotel
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Duke Street | Norwich University of the Arts
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St Augustine's Church
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Augustine Steward House
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The Erpingham Gate
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Nelson Statue
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Unmissable attractions to see
Echo Youth Theatre
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Igniting young talent in Norwich's historic St Edmunds Church with acclaimed productions, workshops, and a supportive space for ages 8-18 to shine on stage.
fika
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Embrace Swedish fika tradition at this tiny Norwich café: exceptional coffee, dairy alternatives, and cozy riverside vibes for perfect daily breaks.
Norfolk Wine School
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Savor, learn, and laugh at Norwich's premier wine school, where expert-led tastings and delectable pairings make every sip an adventure for all levels.
curious directive
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Award-winning science-theatre in a medieval Norwich church: immersive shows, lush garden bar, and creative buzz in a historic haven.
Norwich Theatre Playhouse
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Intimate riverside fringe theatre in a historic maltings, hosting quirky shows, comedy, music and drama with excellent views from every seat and a buzzing Playhouse Bar.
OUTPOST Gallery
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Artist-led hub in Norwich's Tombland pulsing with bold contemporary art, free exhibitions, and volunteer-driven creativity since 2004.
The Norwich Historic Churches Trust
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Cryptic Escape
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Historic escape rooms with sophisticated puzzles and immersive atmospherics in Norwich's city centre.
The Crypt Gallery
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Intimate crypt gallery in Norwich Cathedral Close: vaulted medieval charm hosts vibrant contemporary art exhibitions, free entry, perfect for art discovery.
Hungate Medieval Art
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Norwich Ghost Walks
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Theatrical ghost walks blending Norwich's haunted history with humor and historical facts nightly.
Cinema City
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East Gallery
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Bread Source - The Refectory
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Strangers' Hall
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Essential places to dine
Nergiz
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Iyasaka Cafe
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Dhaba at Fifteen
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Savor authentic Indian street food at Dhaba at Fifteen, where roadside flavors meet modern Norwich dining in a halal haven of fresh spices, vibrant chaats, and family warmth—no alcohol, all flavor.
Norwich Pizza & Kebab
0.1 km
Hearty pizzas, juicy kebabs, and quick delivery in Norwich's vibrant heart—perfect for late-night feasts with generous portions and unbeatable value.
Cafe Norwich
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Cozy local cafe on Norwich's Magdalen Street serving warm welcomes, affordable eats, and daily comfort in a casual, community-focused spot.
La Repubblica Della pizza
0.2 km
Authentic Neapolitan thin-crust pizzas with premium Italian ingredients in cozy Norwich setting—perfectly cooked, inventive toppings, unbeatable value for pizza perfection.
Pizza Go Go Norwich
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Late-night halal pizza delivery in Norwich: fresh dough, hot toppings, unbeatable deals from 3pm to 3:30am daily on Wensum Street.
The Last Wine Bar and Restaurant
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XO Kitchen
0.3 km
Savor generous portions of amazing Asian fusion at Norwich's XO Kitchen, where fresh flavors and friendly service create memorable meals in a lively city-center spot.
The Mediterranean
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Olive’s
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Wig & Pen
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Botanical Garden Bar & Kitchen
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The Courtyard Cafe
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Norwich’s secret café on historic Elm Hill: serene courtyard garden, homemade cakes, afternoon teas, and chef’s boards in a tranquil medieval hideaway.
Thyme
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Euro foods
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Beatniks
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Undercover Books
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Fresh Desh Supermarket
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Authentic Asian supermarket in Norwich brimming with fresh Halal meats, spices, fish, vegetables from Bangladesh, India, Africa, Middle East—family-owned quality with delivery convenience since 2020.
Out Of Time
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Anteros Arts Foundation
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The Norfolk Watch Company
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Anglia Square
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International Food Store
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DIRT punk shop
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Luna Panther
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kings Head
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Norwich's legendary cask ale destination where quality beer and conversation reign supreme.
Rileys
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Norwich's top sports bar for pool, snooker, darts, live HD action, tasty bites, and unbeatable group fun in a welcoming, air-conditioned haven.
The Ribs of Beef
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St Andrews Brew House
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Melville and Sons
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Bond No.28
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The Wallow | Self Service Wine Bar
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Copa Cubana
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Gonzo's Tea Room
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Last Pub Standing
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The Red Lion Bishopgate
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The Murderers
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Boom Battle Bar Norwich
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Compleat Angler
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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VIP Karaoke Club
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Private karaoke pods on Norwich's lively Prince of Wales Road, packed with 100,000+ songs, cocktails, street food, and nightclub vibes for epic group sing-alongs and parties.
Cans 'N' Cocktails
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Mantra
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Pure Gold Bar and Gentlemen's Club
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Sultry strip club in Norwich with talented dancers, private dances, VIP rooms, and a safe, relaxed vibe on Prince of Wales Road—perfect for adult nightlife adventures.
The Cabana Club
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Dive into Norwich's pulsing nightlife at The Cabana Club, where disco beats and vibrant crowds create unforgettable nights of dancing and revelry on Prince of Wales Road.
Sugar & Spice - Strip Club and Lap Dancing Norwich
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Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
Mojo's
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Fluke
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Popworld - Norwich
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Entice Gentlemen's Club
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Norwich's premier gentlemen's club blending sophistication with affordability in the city centre.
KUDOS Bar and Nightclub
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Norwich's pulsating nightclub with killer sound and youthful DJs—dance till dawn on Prince of Wales Road every weekend.
Loft Nightclub
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The Adrian Flux Waterfront
1.2 km
Norwich's riverside rock haven: epic gigs in a historic warehouse, from Nirvana to club nights, with killer sound and Wensum views.
Ceroc Fusion - Canary Social Club
1.4 km
Swing into modern jive at Norwich's friendliest dance night: no partner required, expert guidance, and freestyle fun on a sprung floor every Monday.
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
