In medieval times Norwich had 57 churches, more than one for every week of the year, but many have since fallen into disrepair.
Fortunately, through a change of use, these city churches have been given a new lease of life.
1. Curious Directive Theatre Company
Where: St Simon and St Jude Church, 49 Elm Hill, NR3 1HG
Award-winning theatre company Curious Directive is based in this church on the corner of Elm Hill and it is used as a rehearsal and performance space.
It is also a food and drink destination, with the Botanical Garden Bar popping up over the summer months and indoor restaurant The Potting Shed has just launched with a Scandinavian-style menu.
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2. Community East Skateboard Park
Where: St Peter Parmentergate Church, 76 King Street, NR1 1PG
Social enterprise Community East opened a skateboard park inside this 15th-century church in December 2022.
It welcomes people of all ages, genders and backgrounds to improve their physical and mental wellbeing and it is also home to the skateboard shop Drug Store.
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3. St Gregory's Antiques and Collectables
Where: St Gregory's Church, Pottergate, NR2 1ER
Located in the heart of the Norwich Lanes, there is a treasure trove of weird and wonderful items inside this 14th-century church, with vintage clothing and accessories available too.
The antiques centre opened in 2013 and it was previously St Gregory's Centre for the Arts.
4. All Saints Antiques Centre
Where: All Saints' Church, 3 All Saints Street, Westlegate, NR1 3LG
Another church converted into an antiques shop, you can expect unique items from more than 25 experienced dealers.
All Saints' Church is Grade I-listed and it underwent a major makeover in the late Middle Ages.
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5. Norwich Puppet Theatre
Where: St James' Church, Whitefriars, NR3 1TN
First founded at the time of William the Conqueror, St James' Church was dedicated to two Apostles – St James the Great and St James the Less - and it is in an area previously known as Pockthorpe.
The church closed in 1972 and it became a homeless shelter during the mid-1970s, before opening as Norwich Puppet Theatre in 1980.
Today it welcomes talented troupes from across the country and beyond and there is a 140-seater auditorium.
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