Discover the Top 5 Abandoned Places in Norwich: explore eerie, historic locations perfect for urbex enthusiasts and lovers of mystery.
Norwich, a city known for its medieval architecture and rich history, also has a number of abandoned places that offer a haunting glimpse into the past. From old hospitals and factories to forgotten railway stations and military structures, these sites capture a different side of Norwich’s history. Here are 5 of the most captivating abandoned places in Norwich for urban explorers and history lovers.
1. Corton Longshore Gun Battery
Located near the coast, Corton Longshore Battery was built during World War II to defend against a potential German invasion. While partially dismantled after the war, much of the structure remains abandoned, with decaying bunkers, observation posts, and rusting metal fixtures. Its coastal setting and historical significance make it a popular spot for those interested in Norwich’s military history.
2. St. Mary’s Works
St. Mary’s Works was once a bustling shoe factory that produced footwear for international brands. Since closing down in the late 20th century, the factory has been left abandoned, with vast empty floors, old machinery, and broken windows now defining the space. The building’s industrial charm and eerie silence offer a haunting reminder of Norwich’s manufacturing heritage and attract photographers and history enthusiasts.
3. Norwich Guildhall Prison Cells
Beneath the historic Norwich Guildhall lie abandoned prison cells that date back to the medieval period. While parts of the Guildhall are preserved, the cells below have been left largely untouched, with dark, claustrophobic rooms and iron bars. These abandoned cells offer a fascinating and eerie glimpse into the city’s judicial past, though access is limited.
4. Hellesdon Hospital (Old Buildings)
Originally built in the 19th century, Hellesdon Hospital was used as a mental health facility for over a century. While still in use, some of the older buildings on the grounds have been abandoned, with decaying patient wards, rusting metal beds, and overgrown pathways creating a haunting atmosphere. The hospital’s history in mental healthcare adds a layer of intrigue and nostalgia to the site.
5. Thorpe Railway Station
Thorpe Railway Station was once a major railway hub for Norwich, but certain sections of the station were abandoned and have since fallen into decay. Old platforms, waiting rooms, and tracks remain, though they’re now overgrown and unused. This site provides a nostalgic glimpse into Norwich’s railway past, capturing the passage of time as nature reclaims the forgotten structures.
