From kayaking to visiting a pub beer garden, here are five things to do in Norwich when it is warm and sunny. 

1. Take a picnic to a park

Plantation Gardens is beautifully maintained by volunteersThe Plantation Garden is beautifully maintained by volunteers (Image: Brittany Woodman)

Norwich has a range of beautiful parks that are great for kicking back with a picnic.

The Plantation Garden sits on a three-acre plot off Earlham Road.

It was originally a Victorian spot but has been beautifully restored with plenty of plants, a host of ornaments and statues and spirals of winding pathways.

Visitors are asked to pay £2 to contribute towards the upkeep of the garden which is run by volunteers.

Eaton Park is another great pick - especially for families, as it boasts a number of outdoor activities including crazy golf.

For somewhere more central, Chapelfield Gardens and Cathedral Close are always buzzing on a bright day.

2. Take a stroll along the river

The Riverside Walk follows the River WensumThe Riverside Walk follows the Wensum (Image: David Harper/iWitness)

Norwich's waterways are one of its main selling points and there are several popular trails you can take to explore them.

The main Norwich Riverside walk leads you along the River Wensum and through the Cathedral Quarter in a circular route past historic sights such as The Adam and Eve pub, Cow Tower, Pull's Ferry and Norwich Cathedral.

Alternatively, you could stroll along Whitlingham Broad in Trowse for the chance to see a variety of species including herons and kingfishers, or head to the UEA for a glimpse of the lake.

3. Or take to the waters yourself!

There are several places to hire paddleboards and boats in NorwichThere are several places to hire paddleboards and boats in Norwich (Image: Antony Kelly)

If soaking in the sights of the water isn't enough, you can take to them yourself.

Norwich Paddleboard Hire is based at Gibraltar Gardens, in Heigham Street and offers paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing sessions.

Norfolk Paddle Boards, based at the Red Lion in Bishopsgate, also offers paddleboarding services.

For a quirkier experience, try Pub and Paddle - it allows groups to hop into a canoe and take a tour of the city by water, stopping off for a well-earned pint at some city pubs.

4. Tuck into some street food

Norwich Market is home to several street food spotsNorwich Market is home to several street food spots (Image: Antony Kelly)

It would be a shame to stay inside on such a nice day so, instead of heading inside for lunch, why not stay out with a spot of street food?

Norwich Market has dozens of vendors that offer easy, to-go options. 

Some of the most popular include the New York-style sandwich spot Big Deals Bodega, Lucy's Fish and Chips, Papa Mombassa, Taste of Shanghai and Bun Box - but there are plenty more to explore.

5. Soak up the sun in a pub garden

The Georgian Townhouse has one of Norwich's best beer gardensThe Georgian Townhouse has one of Norwich's best beer gardens (Image: The Georgian Townhouse) City folk are spoiled for choice when it comes to pub gardens.

The Compleat Angler has outdoor seating right beside the river and is conveniently located opposite the train station.

The Georgian Townhouse's bar has an adjoining garden which is hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre - but The Garnet is a good option for those who want a lively spot close to the market.

The Crown Point Tavern in Trowse, The Cellar House in Eaton, The Belgian Monk, and The Playhouse are also good options.