The Rose Pub & Deli, on Queen’s Road, makes a great base from which to explore the city of Norwich, and it’s possible to stay there now in a stylish Airbnb.
Let’s be fair. Wherever you stay in the Fine City you’re not going to be spending too long there because Norwich has so much to see, and so many special events occuring throughout the year. I was in town for City of Ale, a month-long celebration of the city’s pub and brewing culture which straddles May and June. There’s a wine week following soon, and any amount of other similar themed events. Find out more at VisitNorwich.
The Rose’s Airbnb comprises a well-appointed flat with a double bedroom, and a living room which also has a sofa bed. The kitchen has everything you could possibly need, including an oven with hob, microwave, washing machine, and ironing board. The bathroom offers a full suite, including bath and shower.
I was updating my website while I was staying and the wifi was brilliant. There’s a flatscreen TV, too. Guests have the flat entirely to themselves and can also use an outside decked area, shared with the pub owner.
The flat is above the pub and by the road, and there can be traffic noise during busy times, but I must say I didn’t notice it. The pub doesn’t stay open late and doesn’t attract a noisy crowd, in fact the regulars are very welcoming. You’ll not be a stranger for long! There is limited on-street parking, but there are car parks close by, or you can park at Sainsbury’s, just along the road, using the JustPark app.
The pub itself is a haven for both real ale and craft beer drinkers, with delicious pizzas available (I recommend the blue cheese and chorizo!). There’s a deli, too, which is the source of great cheese platters. You’re invited to build your own cheeseboard. Look out for quizzes, curry nights, wine tastings evenings — it all happens here! And if you’re really lucky, you’ll be in town when Stuart and Simon, AKA Weird Pancakes, are in with their eclectic vinyl discotheque. Expect anything from Wes Montgomery to The Human League! You can even play bar billiards, a cue-based game particular to specific pockets of the country such as Norfolk. It developed from a French/Belgian game of Russian origin and there’s a keen pub team!
From The Rose, it’s an easy walk, 10 minutes or so, into the heart of the city. Norwich City FC, the Waterfront, and bus and railways stations are close by. Norwich has history, great food and drink, and lots to entertain all ages. It’s well worth a visit, and the Airbnb at The Rose is an ideal base.
• Find out more about the flat here. I stayed at The Rose Airbnb as a guest of pub owner Dawn.
