The Fat Cat
Norwich's cask ale mecca with 30+ handpumps, vintage pub charm, and no-frills perfection—ideal for real beer lovers seeking fresh pints in a convivial, music-free haven.
Tucked away on West End Street in Norwich, The Fat Cat is a legendary real ale haven boasting nearly 30 handpumps of cask beers, including house-brewed favorites and rotating guests from top UK breweries. This unpretentious 'proper pub' features wood panelling, tiled floors, and a vast collection of vintage brewery signs. No music or kitchen distractions—just exceptional beer, real ciders, and a welcoming vibe for ale enthusiasts. Open daily from noon (11am Saturdays), it's a must for anyone seeking authentic British pub culture at budget prices.
A brief summary to The Fat Cat
- 49 W End St, Norwich, NR2 4NA, GB
- +447807579517
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Ask staff for today's guest ales; the chalkboard lists change daily with rarities from microbreweries.
- Head to the rear garden patio on sunny days for outdoor seating away from the bar bustle.
- Dogs welcome; bring your pup for a relaxed pint in this pet-friendly local.
- Check out the function room for small events—books up fast for gatherings of up to 20.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- WiFi
Discover more about The Fat Cat
History & Atmosphere
Originally the New Inn until 1991, The Fat Cat transformed under the Keatley family into Norwich's premier real ale destination. Colin Keatley renovated the space with a focus on cask beer excellence, creating a long single bar lined with handpumps, ceramic jugs, and decades-old brewery memorabilia. Church pews, maroon half-walls, and checkerboard tiling form cozy nooks without TVs, jukeboxes, or piped music—pure pub immersion where conversation flows as freely as the pints.Beer Selection
With up to 35 cask and keg options, The Fat Cat offers nearly 30 real ales at any time: 15 regulars like Norwich Bitter and Oakham Green Devil IPA, plus ever-changing guests from local and national breweries. Massive 18-gallon firkins in the cellar ensure freshness through high turnover. Real ciders, LocAle emphasis, and a curated selection of gins and wines complement the taps. Knowledgeable staff guide tastings, making it a paradise for beer geeks.Facilities & Events
Step-free access leads to the main bar, with a rear garden patio, function room for 20, and dog-friendly policy. Newspapers available, WiFi for discreet use, and no smoking indoors. Part of the Fat Cat Inns family, it's near sister spots like The Mad Cat next door. Live bands occasionally enhance the vibe without overpowering the ale focus.Norwich Location
Just a short taxi from Norwich Cathedral or bus ride (routes 21-24A on Dereham Rd, 150m away), it's in a residential area ideal for locals and visitors escaping tourist crowds. Clean, light-filled, and buzzing with regulars—perfect for solo sipping or group gatherings.Why Visit
Award-winning (multiple CAMRA nods), affordable, and authentic, The Fat Cat embodies East Anglia's best pub tradition. Whether sampling rare seasonals or settling into a session, it's where beer quality trumps all.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Norwich Central Mosque
0.6 km
Norwich's welcoming Islamic centre for prayer, learning, and community connection.
St Thomas Church
0.6 km
Discover heartfelt worship and genuine community at St Thomas Church, Norwich's welcoming Earlham Road parish where faith meets friendship in a vibrant, inclusive setting.
Train Statue
0.8 km
Repurposed rail sculpture marking miles on Norwich's historic Marriott's Way trail—industrial art meets serene countryside paths for walkers, cyclists, and rail heritage seekers.
Norwich Synagogue
0.8 km
Discover Norwich's sole purpose-built synagogue: a resilient hub of Orthodox worship, education, and 1,000-year Jewish heritage rebuilt after wartime loss.
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
0.9 km
Discover Norwich's Gothic gem: the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, where stunning stained glass and serene spirituality create an unforgettable sacred haven.
St Giles on the Hill
1.0 km
Medieval tower and Victorian restoration create Norwich's most architecturally distinctive Anglican church.
Norwich Central Baptist Church
1.1 km
Discover faith, fellowship, and community at Norwich Central Baptist Church—a welcoming Norwich hub blending vibrant worship, modern outreach, and heartfelt connections for all seekers.
Norwich Elim Church
1.1 km
Vibrant Pentecostal hub in Norwich's heart: Sunday worship, prayer, community, free parking, and faith-filled encounters near historic Winchester Tower.
One Church Norwich
1.1 km
Spirit-filled Pentecostal church in Norwich with vibrant Sunday worship, Bible teaching, kids/youth programs, and community outreach for transformative encounters with God.
Norwich Spiritualist Church
1.1 km
Discover spiritual enlightenment at Norwich's historic Spiritualist Church, where healing, mediumship, and the Seven Principles guide seekers toward eternal progress and communion with spirits.
St Giles House
1.1 km
Discover historical elegance at St Giles House, a Grade II* boutique hotel in Norwich's vibrant center, blending Baroque charm, modern luxury, spa indulgence, and proximity to theatres, castle, and markets.
St Augustine's Church
1.2 km
Discover Norwich's rare 17th-century brick tower at Grade I-listed St Augustine's, a medieval churchyard haven with architect memorials and WWI stories amid half-timbered charm.
Duke Street | Norwich University of the Arts
1.2 km
Modern creative hub in Norwich's heart: NUA's Duke Street Riverside fuses lecture theatres, production spaces, library, shop, and student halls with riverside views for aspiring artists.
Quakers Religious Society Of Friends
1.2 km
Discover 350 years of Quaker serenity in Norwich's heart: a Grade II* classical haven for silent worship, community gatherings, and timeless social reform values.
CityGates Church Norwich
1.2 km
Discover welcoming Bible teaching and vibrant worship at CityGates Church Norwich, a Free Evangelical hub near the city centre open to all seekers and believers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Cat House - Norwich
0.2 km
Cuddle rescue cats, sip artisan drinks, and immerse in cat-themed art at Norwich's ultimate feline sanctuary and creative haven for tranquil bliss.
norwich-art
0.2 km
Contemporary art gallery showcasing emerging and established artists in Norwich's creative heart.
Threshold Theatre Company
0.5 km
Norwich's vibrant amateur theatre company delivering polished, innovative productions in an intimate setting.
Bowling House
0.7 km
Norwich's ultimate entertainment hub where bowling, karaoke, and dining create unforgettable nights out.
The Plantation Garden
0.8 km
Norwich's volunteer-restored Victorian gem with Gothic fountains and woodland walks.
True Stories Live
0.9 km
Unpredictable true tales from real lives, shared live in Norwich's warmest storytelling nights—laughter, tears, and themes that bind us all.
Norwich Arts Centre
0.9 km
Intimate 14th-century church turned multi-arts gem: live music, theatre, comedy, and gallery in Norwich's beating cultural heart, hosting legends and nurturing new talent.
Kofra Coffee Roasters
1.0 km
Norwich's flagship for traceable seasonal coffees, natural wines, in-house bakery pastries, craft beers, and deli delights in a vibrant community café hub.
Wensum Park
1.0 km
Riverside haven in Norwich with lush lawns, wildlife, play areas, and timeless tranquility along the Wensum—perfect for family picnics, serene walks, and nature escapes just beyond the city buzz.
Mile Cross Marsh
1.0 km
Discover Norwich's hidden wetland gem: Mile Cross Marsh, where River Wensum's chalk streams nurture rare orchids and wildlife in tranquil, accessible paths just beyond the city bustle.
St Margaret's Gallery
1.0 km
Discover contemporary art in a medieval Norwich church: St Margaret's Gallery blends historic sanctity with modern maker exhibitions in an inspiring, affordable space.
Norwich Road Runners
1.0 km
Join Norwich's vibrant running community at Road Runners: inclusive training for all levels, from juniors to marathon hopefuls, rooted in 40+ years of local passion.
Norwich Bachata (Norwich Latin Dance)
1.0 km
Sway into sensual Bachata rhythms at Norwich's top drop-in classes—fun, partner-free learning for all levels in a vibrant city centre bar every Thursday night.
VisitNorwich
1.0 km
Unlock the City of Stories with VisitNorwich – your gateway to Norwich's literary heritage, vibrant events, indie shops, and welcoming streets under expansive East Anglian skies.
Studio Art Gallery
1.0 km
Contemporary art in a seventeenth-century setting, celebrating Eastern European creativity and modern artistic vision.
Essential places to dine
Lupa Pizza
0.0 km
Discover Norwich's top-rated pizza haven on Nelson Street, where wood-fired pies deliver authentic Italian flavors in a cozy, welcoming spot perfect for casual evenings out.
Harry's Soul Station
0.1 km
Norwich's hidden soul food haven: epic portions of burgers, ribs & gluten-free brunch in a dog-friendly spot with live tunes and heartfelt service.
Take Thai
0.2 km
Authentic Thai flavors in a cozy Norwich neighborhood spot: bold curries, fresh pad Thai, and friendly service that earns its stellar 4.6-star reputation every evening.
Connaught Kitchen
0.4 km
American comfort food done right in Norwich's most welcoming casual dining destination.
Mr Mangal
0.5 km
Savor authentic Turkish grills at Mr Mangal in Norwich: charcoal-charred kebabs, generous portions, and warm hospitality just steps from the city center.
Oishii Street Kitchen
0.5 km
Norwich's hidden gem for explosive Asian street food flavors: massive portions of fusion burgers, bibimbap, and wings in a cozy Distillery Square hideaway.
Antep Kitchen
0.5 km
Sizzling Turkish grills and mezze platters in a buzzing Norwich spot, where generous portions and warm hospitality deliver Gaziantep flavors at unbeatable value.
The Black Horse
0.5 km
Historic 1714 Norwich pub famed for epic Sunday roasts, dog-friendly charm, and sunny beer garden in the Golden Triangle. Hearty eats, local beers, and top service await.
Harty's Diner
0.6 km
Norwich's finest full English breakfast, served with genuine warmth and exceptional value since day one.
Bond Street Cafe
0.6 km
Authentic Norwich cafe serving quality breakfast and lunch in a relaxed, no-frills neighbourhood setting.
Cloud Coffee Bar
0.7 km
Norwich's top-rated coffee haven on Grapes Hill, serving the city's best brews and fresh Turkish-inspired bites in a cozy, welcoming nook.
Dyrrah Coffee
0.8 km
Norwich's homely café haven: exceptional coffee, vegan delights, and authentic pizzas in a dog-friendly, community-hearted spot.
The White Lion
0.9 km
Classic Norwich pub serving hearty British dishes, crisp beers, and warm hospitality in a cozy Oak Street haven—perfect for authentic local vibes.
Tallow
0.9 km
Norwich's go-to steakhouse for juicy, tender cuts and irresistible brown butter mash, where efficient service and a no-reservations vibe create memorable meals daily from noon till night.
The Corkscrew
0.9 km
Intimate Norwich wine bar where one chef's daily 5-course magic, Italian wines, and cosy jazz create unforgettable, value-packed evenings in the Lanes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
West End Street Pharmacy
0.1 km
Dependable Norwich pharmacy opposite doctors' surgery, stocking rare meds with friendly NHS service—your West End health essential.
LloydsPharmacy
0.1 km
Essential Norwich pharmacy delivering prescriptions, health products, and expert advice in a convenient West End location—reliable service for everyday wellness needs.
Just News & Convenience
0.3 km
Your everyday Norwich essential: newspapers, snacks, and conveniences from a friendly Nelson Street corner shop, open long hours for locals and passersby.
A.P Cycles
0.3 km
Norwich's top-rated bike repair shop delivering same-day service and expert care for every cyclist, from commuters to adventurers.
At Your Convenience
0.5 km
Your go-to corner shop on Norwich's Earlham Road for daily essentials, snacks, and reliable service amid a vibrant uni neighborhood—open long hours for locals and travelers alike.
Londis
0.6 km
24/7 Norwich convenience with Tesco-backed essentials: milk, bread, hot snacks, and unbeatable local deals—just steps from Raglan Street.
Norwich Office Supplies
0.7 km
Your go-to Norwich hub for office stationery, custom furniture, and expert service since 1985—reliable supplies with a personal touch for every business need.
Majestic Wine Norwich
0.7 km
Discover exceptional wines and expert advice at Majestic Wine Norwich, your go-to spot for quality selections, friendly service, and convenient shopping in the city center.
Just Shoot Film Ltd.
0.7 km
Norwich's indie film lab reviving analogue joy with fast C41 processing, pro scans, and community vibes for shooters nationwide.
GO Outdoors Norwich
0.8 km
Gear up for Norwich adventures at GO Outdoors: vast camping, cycling, and running kit at unbeatable prices with expert advice and dog-friendly vibes.
Halfords - Norwich
0.8 km
Norwich's premier Halfords for auto parts, bike services, MOTs, and tyres – convenient city-edge location with expert fittings and extended hours for all your motoring needs.
City Electrical Factors Ltd (CEF)
0.8 km
Norwich's essential electrical wholesaler: vast stock of trade-quality wiring, tools, lighting, and solar gear with expert advice for pros and DIYers alike.
The Green Grocers
0.8 km
Independent Norwich wholefoods haven with organic produce, vegan cafe delights, fresh bakery, and pizza nights in a sustainable, community-focused spot.
Hocus Pocus Apothecary
0.9 km
Norwich's premier modern witch shop offering ethically sourced crystals, jewellery, and mystical essentials.
All About Shoes
0.9 km
Uncover bespoke footwear magic at All About Shoes, where Emily and Milly craft unique pairs amid Norwich's vibrant St Benedict's Street cultural buzz.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fat Cat
0.0 km
Norwich's cask ale mecca with 30+ handpumps, vintage pub charm, and no-frills perfection—ideal for real beer lovers seeking fresh pints in a convivial, music-free haven.
The Wallow | Self Service Wine Bar
1.3 km
Discover Norwich’s pioneering self-service wine bar offering over 50 wines, delicious sharing platters, and a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.
Rileys
1.4 km
Norwich's top sports bar for pool, snooker, darts, live HD action, tasty bites, and unbeatable group fun in a welcoming, air-conditioned haven.
Gonzo's Tea Room
1.6 km
Norwich's shape-shifting haven: coffee and cakes by day, burgers, cocktails, and dancefloor disco till dawn. Quirky, vibrant, and unmissable in the Lanes.
Boom Battle Bar Norwich
1.7 km
Unleash your competitive side at Norwich's premier games bar, where axe throwing, darts, shuffleboard, and killer cocktails fuel epic nights of laughter and friendly rivalry.
Bond No.28
1.7 km
Norwich's ultra-premium cocktail bar in historic Tombland: Neo-Georgian elegance, masterful drinks, tapas sharing, live music, and exclusive lounges for unforgettable nights.
Bar & Beyond Norwich
1.8 km
Vibrant Norwich nightlife gem with five bars, DJ beats, bottomless brunches, and a beer garden—perfect for lively group nights out dancing till 3am.
The Cellar House
3.3 km
Experience the charm of The Cellar House, a delightful pub and restaurant in Eaton, Norwich, offering a warm atmosphere and delicious local cuisine.
The Ferry House
9.2 km
A charming riverside pub in Surlingham offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and peaceful Norfolk Broads views.
Coldham Hall
10.9 km
Charming riverside pub and bespoke wedding venue on the scenic Norfolk Broads, blending rustic warmth with stunning natural views.
Rising Sun Coltishall
12.1 km
A charming riverside pub and inn in Coltishall offering hearty food, cozy rooms, and a warm, traditional English atmosphere.
King's Head Coltishall
12.2 km
Historic Norfolk pub offering award-winning British cuisine, cozy B&B rooms, and scenic river views in charming Coltishall.
A slice of the broads
12.4 km
Experience the heart of Hoveton at 'A Slice of the Broads', where artisanal coffee meets local charm in a cozy setting.
The Old Mill
12.4 km
Experience the best of British cuisine at The Old Mill, a scenic restaurant by the Broads, perfect for all dining occasions.
Fur & Feather Inn
12.5 km
Experience Norfolk’s finest brewery tap and gastropub, where local ales and hearty seasonal dishes celebrate the heart of the Broads.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Platinum Lace Norwich
1.3 km
Discover Norwich's premier lap dancing and strip club: stylish performers, upbeat music, cheap drinks, and electrifying nightlife at Platinum Lace.
VIP Karaoke Club
1.7 km
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
1.8 km
Norwich's premier craft cocktail nightclub delivering creative drinks and vibrant nightlife energy.
Sugar & Spice - Strip Club and Lap Dancing Norwich
1.9 km
Norwich’s premier American-style strip club offering vibrant entertainment, VIP experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
Mantra
1.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and great music at Mantra Nightclub, Norwich’s energetic weekend party destination with friendly staff and affordable drinks.
Pure Gold Bar and Gentlemen's Club
1.9 km
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
1.9 km
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.
Mojo's
1.9 km
Mojo's: Norwich's gritty, no-frills nightclub pulsing with late-night beats and authentic urban energy.
Fluke
1.9 km
Experience Norwich’s vibrant nightlife at Fluke, where great music, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd come together for unforgettable nights.
Popworld - Norwich
1.9 km
Norwich’s vibrant late-night hotspot for pop hits, friendly vibes, and unforgettable party nights on Prince of Wales Road.
Entice Gentlemen's Club
2.0 km
Norwich's premier gentlemen's club blending sophistication with affordability in the city centre.
KUDOS Bar and Nightclub
2.0 km
Norwich's pulsating nightclub with killer sound and youthful DJs—dance till dawn on Prince of Wales Road every weekend.
Loft Nightclub
2.0 km
Norwich’s vibrant gay nightclub with over 30 years of inclusive nightlife, music, and community spirit in the heart of the city.
The Adrian Flux Waterfront
2.2 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
2.6 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
