About 38 St Giles Boutique Bed and Breakfast
A Grand House with a Rich History
Built in 1700 for the Gurney family, 38 St Giles is a historic and elegant property that has played host to a fascinating past, including being the home of a former Lord Mayor of Norwich. Its discreet entrance, tucked just off St Giles Street, offers an unmatched sense of privacy and intimacy. Located in the heart of Norwich, we are the city’s most centrally located boutique accommodation. A short stroll from the largest outdoor covered marketplace in the UK and adjacent to ‘The Lanes’—a historic district with over 200 independent retailers—our location is ideal for exploring this fine city.
The Little Touches That Make a Difference
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with homemade cakes and your choice of freshly brewed tea or coffee. Breakfast features locally sourced ingredients, including house-made preserves, prepared with care and attention to detail. We are happy to accommodate small wedding parties, birthdays, anniversaries, and group bookings. Contact us to discuss your requirements, and we’ll be delighted to assist.
A Personal Welcome Awaits
At 38 St Giles, we pride ourselves on creating a warm and personalised experience for every guest. Our passion lies in building lasting relationships and making your stay truly special. It’s a privilege to welcome you into our home, and we look forward to providing you with a relaxing, comfortable, and memorable stay in Norwich.
To book your stay or inquire further, please call or email us. We can’t wait to welcome you.
A Unique Blend of Heritage and Comfort
Inside, a grand staircase leads to beautifully designed rooms that blend traditional charm with contemporary style. From double rooms to spacious suites, each space is thoughtfully furnished with a mix of eclectic pieces, luxurious throws, and soft cushions. Bathrooms feature oversized walk-in showers, rain showerheads, and, in some rooms, indulgent bathtubs. White, fluffy towels and premium toiletries add to the comfort, while our 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton bedding and goose-down pillows ensure a restful night.
For centuries Norwich was the largest city in England after London, and the capital of the most populous county in England.
By Anglo Saxon times Norwich was already one of the country's most important towns, developed from a collection of small settlements along the Wensum. Its position in rich agricultural land and close proximity to river and sea made it an excellent location for trade.
In 1096, Herbert de Losinga, the Bishop of Thetford, began construction of the Cathedral. Norwich was granted city status in 1194 because of its bustling market, the expanding textile industry and strong agricultural roots. During the Middles Ages, the wealth generated by the wool trade financed the construction of many fine churches; consequently, Norwich still has more medieval churches than any other city in Western Europe north of the Alps.
At this time religion was a powerful influence on civic life with everyone being made to pay a tax or 'tithe' to the church, usually a tenth of their earnings in either cash or goods. Even the poorest paid up, lest they go south rather than north, and so medieval Norwich had 57 churches – one for every week of the year. At the time the city also had so many public houses there was one for every day.
The canary bird was introduced by Flemish refugees, fleeing from Spanish persecution in 16th century Holland. They brought with them not only advanced techniques in textile working but also their pet canaries, which is why Norwich City Football Club is nicknamed The Canaries.
Check-out these useful links:
Norwich Cathedral - Castle Museum - Norfolk Broads - Elm Hill