Some of the best sights and sounds in the nation may be found in Norwich, a city rich in culture, history, and good times. They are still very much alive in our recollections, even though some have since been lost to time.
These are five things our readers recall from earlier eras.
The Aqua Park
One of the few locations in the city where swimmers of all ages could go to cool off in the summer or enjoy its inflatable obstacle courses, slides, bubble baths, and rapids was Norwich’s Aquapark, which opened in June 1991 close to the Hellesdon Asda.
Residents of Norwich bemoaned its demise, describing it as a “amazing” place to take the kids.
Samson and Hercules
Before the Prince of Wales scene gained popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s, the dance hall at Samson and Hercules was the place to be, and city partygoers were keen to mention it. In addition to The Tudor, Jane Prendergast claimed that she frequently visited the ‘Sam and Herc’ for a fantastic evening of dancing and music.
Zaks Caravan
Since its modest beginnings in the caravan, Zaks American Diner has expanded to include three locations around Norwich and the surrounding area. With hopefully many more years and memories to come, Zak’s will celebrate 50 years as Norwich’s favourite burger joint in three years.
Mackintosh chocolate
Many recall a time when the city’s streets were filled with the delightful aroma of chocolate.
Alison Dunnell remembers shopping on a Saturday in the past and smelling the aroma of chocolate cooking from the Rowntree Mackintosh factory in Norwich, which was the birthplace of the first Rolo.
Funfair at the Cattle Market
At the funfair at the base of Norwich Castle, Claire Burgess recalls winning a David Bowie badge and a goldfish in a bag.
The Castle Meadow funfair, which included merry-go-rounds, shooting galleries, basket toss, and lots of sweet treat stands for the kids, was fondly remembered by many readers.
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