Mousehold Heath

Wood, Forest in Norfolk Norwich

England

Mousehold Heath

Alderford Terrace, Magdalen Road, Norwich Some early 19th century cottages along Magdalen Road, Norwich. An OS Map from the 1880s tells me this row is called Alderford Terrace but I am not sure if the name is still in use today. — Alderford Terrace, Magdalen Road, Norwich Credit: Adam Smith

Mousehold Heath is a large woodland area located in Norwich, Norfolk, England. Covering an expansive area of approximately 184 acres, it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The heath is situated on a plateau, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The woodland is predominantly composed of a mix of deciduous and coniferous trees, including oak, birch, and pine. These trees provide a diverse habitat for a variety of wildlife, making Mousehold Heath a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can spot a range of bird species, such as woodpeckers, buzzards, and tawny owls, along with small mammals like squirrels and rabbits.

The heath has a rich historical significance, with its roots dating back to the medieval era. In the past, it was utilized as a common grazing area for livestock and as a source of timber for the local community. Today, remnants of its history can still be seen, including old quarries and pathways.

Mousehold Heath offers a range of recreational activities for visitors. There are numerous walking trails that wind through the woodland, allowing visitors to explore its natural wonders at their own pace. Additionally, the heath is a popular spot for picnicking, jogging, and dog walking. Its open spaces and peaceful environment make it an ideal place for relaxation and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In conclusion, Mousehold Heath is a picturesque woodland area in Norfolk, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. Its diverse flora and fauna, coupled with its stunning views and serene atmosphere, make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

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Mousehold Heath Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.642677/1.3173658 or Grid Reference TG2410. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Alderford Terrace, Magdalen Road, Norwich

Some early 19th century cottages along Magdalen Road, Norwich. An OS Map from the 1880s tells me this row is called Alderford Terrace but I am not sure if the name is still in use today.

Adam Smith

The Dyers Arms, Magdalen Road, Norwich

Sadly no longer a PH having closed around 2019. The former Dyers Arms has become a "health and wellbeing clinic". In 1986 the Norwich Society described it as an "unremarkable local". Link

Adam Smith

Christ Church, New Catton, Norwich

A view across to Christ Church, New Catton in Norwich on a wet December morning. A rather striking church dating from 1842 and, apparently, pre-dating all of the housing which surrounds it. Simon Knott's excellent Norfolk Churches site seems to suggest it has a similarly striking mint green interior which I sadly did not get to see. Link

Adam Smith

Sewell Park, New Catton, Norwich

The southern entrance to Sewell Park in New Catton. The handsome triangular drinking trough here can be seen on an OS Map from the late-19th century. A final stopping place before heading into the city centre perhaps. A similarly handsome bronze plaque can be seen behind it describing how this open space was once used and loved by Philip Edward Sewell and is now dedicated to his memory.

Adam Smith

Sewell Park Academy, Norwich

As with many schools in Norfolk, this one has a long history of changing with the educational winds. It was opened in 1929 as Blyth Grammar School, it became a comprehensive school in 1971 and merged with Alderman Jex School to become Blyth-Jex School in 1972. In 2008, it became Sewell Park College and, in 2015, it became Sewell Park Academy. Apparently a whalebone, donated by a former student, stands in the grounds. TG2310 : Whale's Jawbone Arch in the grounds of Blyth Jex School

Adam Smith

Tombland, Norwich

A view of Tombland on an exceptionally wet December morning. The Cathedral can be seen in the distance. The obelisk is a memorial to machinery which stood on this site between 1700 and 1830 which raised and stored water for the higher parts of the city. In 1860, a drinking fountain was erected here to commemorate this by John Henry Gurney. Link

Adam Smith

Former Quayside School, Norwich

A quite unusual example of Victorian architecture - this is the former girls and infants section of Quayside School at the bottom of Piggs Lane, Norwich.

Adam Smith

View along Quayside, Norwich

The view along Quayside, Norwich looking towards Fye Bridge on a very rainy December morning. A double decker bus crosses over the bridge heading into the city centre.

Adam Smith

Looking up Golden Dog Lane, Norwich

The view up Golden Dog Lane, Norwich as seen from Magdalen Street. The building on the right was once the Golden Dog PH but is now a barbershop. At one time the Golden Dog had not only a bar but also a very small brewery on site. Link

Adam Smith

Former Barclays Bank, Magdalen Street, Norwich

A rather Brutalist former Barclays Bank built in the 1960s alongside the Anglia Square shopping centre. It is now derelict but was, for a short while, an international food supermarket. There are plans in the work to demolish it and replace it with a four storey block of flats.

Adam Smith

Looking south down Magdalen Street, Norwich

Looking back south into the city centre from where Bull Close Road meets Magdalen Street. The rather excellent Bread Source bakery and Malt and Mardle pub can be seen to the right.

Adam Smith

Hills and Hollows, Mousehold Heath

A wooded area on the edge of Mousehold Heath which looks like it might have been quarries or claypits at one time.

Des Blenkinsopp

Woodland, Mousehold Heath

A surviving fragment of open space now surrounded by suburban Norwich. "In Tudor times, Mousehold Heath stretched as far north as South Walsham and was 22 miles round. The surviving remnant of the heath was given to Norwich City Council (then known as the local corporation) to look after on behalf of the citizens of Norwich in 1880." quoted from Link

Des Blenkinsopp

The Vinegar Pond, Mousehold Heath

The pond gets its name from the occasional red algae bloom turning the water a vinegar like colour. A long article about the pond and the heath is on Link

Des Blenkinsopp

Track on Mousehold Heath

Mousehold Heath is an 88 hectare remnant of formerly extensive heathland which was given to Norwich City Council in 1880. It is now surrounded by suburban development. Link

Des Blenkinsopp

The Rosebery, New Catton

Light is rapidly fading on this December afternoon but the fine old Victorian pub looks inviting. It was formerly known as the Lord Rosebery, named after Archibald Primrose who was Liberal Prime Minister between 1894 and 1895.

Stephen McKay