Norwich is a city in England that dates back to around 80 AD when the Iceni tribe occupied the area. Over the following centuries, it was settled by the Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, and Normans, each leaving their own unique marks on the landscape. Local historians track the city’s history through road names, which indicate different purposes for various parts of the city over time. This article highlights the stories behind five of Norwich’s most well-known streets.
Cattle Market Street, located off Rouen Road, got its name from the 17th-century cattle market that used to be held in the area. The market continued until the 1960s, and local stories reminisce about lining the streets as children to pat the animals on their way to the market. Tombland, on the other hand, derived its name from an Old English term meaning “empty space” or “empty ground.” It was once the city’s main marketplace during the Anglo-Saxon era until the Normans settled and moved the market to build a castle. The road has a reputation for ghost stories, including the tale of a girl who allegedly ate her parents.
Pottergate, like many streets ending in “gate,” comes from the Danish word “gata,” meaning “street.” It was named after the street where the city’s potters lived and worked. Similarly, Fishergate was home to the city’s fishermen. Magdalen Street was originally called Fybriggate, which meant “the street leading to Fye Bridge.” It was the main road connecting Norwich to north Norfolk settlements and was later renamed after the St Mary Magdalen Hospital. The hospital, founded in 1232 as a leper hospital, was later used for aged and sick people.
Elm Hill is one of the most picturesque streets in Norwich, with its cobbled roads and traditional beamed architecture. Its name comes from a group of elm trees that were planted in the 16th century by a group of churchwardens. Unfortunately, most of the trees succumbed to Dutch Elm Disease, but one lone tree still remains today. These five streets in Norwich offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and the impact of various cultures that have shaped it over time.
In conclusion, Norwich is a city with a long and diverse history, influenced by the Iceni tribe, Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, and Normans. Road names provide insights into the city’s past, reflecting its use for different purposes over time. Cattle Market Street, Tombland, Pottergate, Magdalen Street, and Elm Hill each have their own stories and connections to Norwich’s heritage. From ancient cattle markets to leper hospitals and tree-lined streets, these roads showcase the city’s vibrant history and cultural evolution.
