Pull's Ferry

Historical Significance

Pull's Ferry marks one of Norwich's most important medieval engineering achievements. During the construction of Norwich Cathedral in the 11th and 12th centuries, a channel was diverted from the River Wensum to create a canal that extended into the cathedral precinct. This waterway served as the primary transport route for Caen limestone shipped across the English Channel from Normandy—each stone carefully transferred to low barges at Old Barge Yard on King Street before being delivered to the stonemasons' yard inside the cathedral grounds. The ferry was essential infrastructure for one of England's greatest architectural undertakings.

The Watergate and Its Architecture

In the 15th century, a distinctive flat-arched Water Gate was constructed over the canal, creating the iconic structure visitors see today. The waterway itself was filled in around 1780, but the watergate remained as a testament to medieval engineering. The structure's elegant proportions and craftsmanship reflect the importance of this crossing point. Architect Cecil Upcher undertook a significant restoration of Pull's Ferry in the early 20th century, preserving this landmark for future generations and ensuring its survival as one of the city's most recognizable monuments.

The Ferry Service

The crossing from the opposite bank of the Wensum was originally known as Sandling's Ferry, named after its operator. In 1796, John Pull established a pub at the site—the Pull's Ferry Inn or Ferry House—and began operating the ferry service. The ferry continued under Pull's name long after his bankruptcy in 1841, becoming an integral part of Norwich's riverside identity. The ferryboat itself was a simple, squat vessel propelled gondolier-fashion by a single oar, as documented in late Victorian photographs. Despite the construction of Bishops Bridge nearby, Pull's Ferry remained in operation until 1943, when it finally ceased service during the Second World War.

Modern Heritage Status

Today, Pull's Ferry stands as a cherished historical landmark at 29 Ferry Lane, positioned on the eastern boundary of Cathedral Close. Its restoration has made it one of Norwich's most visited and photographed sites, attracting history enthusiasts, photographers, and casual visitors alike. The location offers a tangible connection to medieval commerce, cathedral construction, and centuries of river life. The surrounding area provides peaceful riverside walks and views of the cathedral, making it an essential stop for understanding Norwich's architectural and commercial heritage.