A Student's Guide to Living in Norwich for the First Time
Starting university is one of the most exciting moments in your life new friends, new routines, and, for many, a brand-new city to explore. If you’re heading to Norwich to study at the University of East Anglia (UEA) or another local institution, you’ve chosen one of the most vibrant and student-friendly cities in the UK.
At Velocity Student Norwich, we know how important it is to settle in quickly and make your new home feel like your own. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to help you navigate student life in Norwich, from getting around town to making the most of your accommodation.
Getting to Know Norwich
Norwich is a beautiful, historic city that blends medieval charm with modern energy. From cobbled lanes and cosy cafés to bustling shopping streets and green parks, it’s a city that truly has something for everyone.
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The City Centre – Full of independent shops, vintage markets, and street food stalls. The Norwich Lanes and Castle Quarter are must-visits for first-timers.
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UEA Campus – Located just a short distance from Velocity Student, UEA is easily accessible by foot, bike, or bus. You’ll be on campus in minutes, saving time and money on your commute.
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Shops & Essentials – You’ll find supermarkets, takeaways, and pharmacies just around the corner from Velocity, making day-to-day life simple and convenient.
Getting Around
Norwich is a compact city, meaning you’ll never be too far from where you need to go.
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Buses: The local bus network is reliable and affordable. Regular routes run between the city centre, UEA, and student areas — with discounted student tickets available.
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Cycling: Norwich is bike-friendly, with plenty of cycle paths and storage space (including secure bike racks at Velocity Student).
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Walking: Many of Norwich’s best spots are within walking distance — including shops, cafés, and cultural landmarks like Norwich Market and the Cathedral.
Velocity tip: When you first arrive, download the First Bus or Konectbus app to check routes, timetables, and student fares in real time.
Budgeting and Cost of Living
Norwich is known for being one of the most affordable university cities in the UK — great news for students watching their budgets!
At Velocity Student Norwich, your rent includes all bills and high-speed Wi-Fi, making it easier to plan your monthly expenses without any surprise costs.
A quick guide to average student spending:
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Groceries: £25–£35 per week
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Bus fares: £1.50–£3 per trip (cheaper with a student pass)
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Coffee or lunch in town: £4–£8
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Night out: £20–£30
With Norwich’s wide range of student discounts, it’s easy to enjoy city life without overspending.
Getting the Basics Sorted
Once you’ve unpacked and settled in, there are a few practical things to tick off your list:
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Register for Council Tax – Full-time students are usually exempt, but you’ll still need to complete an exemption form via the Norwich City Council website.
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Open a UK Bank Account – If you’re an international student, you’ll need one for everyday spending. Most banks offer student-friendly accounts with perks like free railcards or overdraft options.
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Register with a GP – Make sure you register at a local doctor’s surgery early on; the UEA Medical Centre or local clinics are convenient options.
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Get a Student Discount Card – NUS Totum and UNiDAYS give you access to discounts on food, fashion, travel, and tech.
Getting Involved & Making Friends
Norwich has a thriving student community, and the best way to feel at home is to get involved!
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Join a Club or Society: UEA alone has over 200 student clubs — from sports and music to cultural and gaming societies.
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Explore Local Events: Norwich hosts everything from open-mic nights to vintage markets. Check out VisitNorwich.co.uk for what’s happening each week.
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Use Your Common Spaces: The Velocity communal areas are perfect for movie nights, group study sessions, or planning weekend trips with flatmates.
Remember, everyone’s in the same boat — so don’t be afraid to say hello first!
