Cow Tower: Norwich’s Medieval Artillery Blockhouse
Explore Cow Tower, Norwich’s rare medieval artillery blockhouse guarding the River Wensum with commanding views and rich history.
Cow Tower, built in 1398-9, is one of England’s earliest purpose-built artillery blockhouses, located on the banks of the River Wensum in Norwich. This imposing brick and flint tower was designed to defend the city by housing guns and gunners, commanding a strategic riverside position. Though the interior is closed to visitors, the exterior and surrounding riverside paths offer a scenic glimpse into Norwich’s medieval defenses and history.
A brief summary to Cow Tower
- Cotman Fields, Norwich, Norwich, NR1 4AA, GB
- +441603213434
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- The interior is closed, but you can view the tower’s exterior and peek inside through railings.
- Visit during daylight hours for the best experience and to enjoy the scenic riverside walk.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the riverbank near the tower for a relaxing break.
- Look for the information boards near the tower to learn about its history and defensive role.
- Nearby Norwich city centre offers restrooms, cafés, and shops for convenience before or after your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the bus from Norwich Bus Station to the city centre; from there, it’s a 15-minute walk along flat riverside paths to Cow Tower. Bus fares range from £2 to £4, with frequent services throughout the day.
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Train
Arrive at Norwich Railway Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes along the scenic Riverside Walk to Cow Tower. Train fares vary widely depending on origin, with local transport options available from the station.
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Car
Park at the multi-storey car park near Norwich Railway Station, about a 10-minute walk from Cow Tower via the riverside path. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £10 depending on duration.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Norwich city centre, enjoy a gentle 20- to 30-minute walk to Cow Tower along accessible, flat riverside paths, suitable for all fitness levels.
Cow Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Cow Tower
Origins and Military Purpose
Constructed between 1398 and 1399, Cow Tower stands as one of the earliest artillery blockhouses purpose-built in England. Its primary role was to defend Norwich by controlling a key strategic point along the River Wensum. The tower’s height of over 15 metres (approximately 49 feet) allowed it to overlook the high ground on the opposite riverbank, ensuring a commanding view to monitor and repel any hostile forces approaching via the river. It was designed to house a garrison of gunners and artillery, equipped with widely splayed gun ports suitable for the newly developed cannon technology of the late 14th century, while also retaining arrow loops for crossbows and small firearms. This blend of medieval and early gunpowder weaponry reflects the transitional military innovations of the period.Architectural Features and Construction
The tower’s robust walls feature a core of mortared flint rubble, faced both internally and externally with brick, complemented by external stone dressings. This durable construction was essential for withstanding attacks and the recoil of artillery fire. The ground floor likely served as a communal dining area for the garrison, with sleeping quarters on the upper two floors. Cow Tower is unique in its standalone design compared to other artillery towers in England, which are often integrated into city walls or gates. Its name is believed to derive from the surrounding meadow historically known as Cowholme, linking the tower to its local landscape context.Historical Significance and Later History
Cow Tower played a notable role during the turbulent times of the 16th century, including the Kett’s Rebellion of 1549, when rebels attacked Norwich with artillery and damaged the tower’s parapets. Repairs were undertaken in the late 19th century, though some restoration efforts then were less than careful, causing further damage. The tower’s floors and roof have since been lost, leaving it as a shell of its former self. In 1953, the Ministry of Works took guardianship of the tower, stabilizing the structure to preserve it for future generations. Today, it is managed jointly by English Heritage and Norwich City Council and is recognized as a Grade I listed building and scheduled monument.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
While the interior of Cow Tower is not accessible to visitors, the exterior can be freely explored along flat, well-maintained riverside paths. The tower serves as a striking historical focal point on the scenic River Wensum walk, offering excellent photographic opportunities. Information boards near the site provide insights into its construction and defensive role. The surrounding area is peaceful and ideal for picnics or quiet reflection, blending natural beauty with rich medieval history. Though there are no facilities on site, Norwich city centre’s amenities, including shops, cafés, and restrooms, are conveniently nearby.Context within Norwich’s Heritage
Cow Tower complements Norwich’s extensive medieval heritage, standing alongside other historic sites such as Norwich Castle and the cathedral. Its survival as a standalone artillery tower is rare in England, with only a few comparable structures like God’s House Tower in Southampton and the West Gate in Canterbury. This uniqueness enhances its importance as a tangible link to the city’s defensive past and military architecture during the early gunpowder era.Preservation and Cultural Value
As a protected heritage site, Cow Tower represents both the military ingenuity of late medieval England and the evolving nature of urban defense. Its preservation allows visitors and historians to appreciate the strategic and architectural responses to threats faced by Norwich centuries ago. The tower’s commanding presence on the riverbank continues to evoke the vigilance and resilience of the city’s past inhabitants, making it a valuable cultural landmark within Norfolk’s historic landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pull's Ferry
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VisitNorwich
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War Memorial
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Merrivale Model Village
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Britannia Pier
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Great Yarmouth Beach
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National Trust - Felbrigg Hall, Gardens & Estate
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Norwich Castle
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Castle Quarter
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Jarrolds
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Chantry Place
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The Plantation Garden
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Whitlingham Country Park
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RSPB Surlingham Church Marsh
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Ladybelt Country Park
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Wheatfen Broad - Ted Ellis Trust
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Salhouse Broad
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Strumpshaw Fen
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Blofield Farm Shop
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Fur & Feather Inn
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Essential places to dine
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The Cellar House
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The Ferry House
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The Wildebeest
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Stoke Mill STORE
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The Kings Head
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Wherrymans
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The Old Mill
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Rising Sun Coltishall
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King's Head Coltishall
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New Inn, Horning
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Bure River Cottage Restaurant
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The Maltsters
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cathedral Shop
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Elm Hill Craft Shop
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Anglia Square
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Inanna's Magical Gifts
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Norwich Lanes
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A Piece Of Cake
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The Bridge Gift Shop
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Roys of Wroxham Department store
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The Galley Horning
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Tidings
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Ludham Bridge Stores
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Reedham Stores
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Ferry Inn of Horning
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The Swan Inn
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White Horse Inn Neatishead
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Dog Inn Ludham
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The Lord Nelson
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The Harnser
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Lady Haven
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Duke's Head Hotel
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The Mariners
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The Kings Arms
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The Market Tavern Public House
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
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
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
