The Best Independent Music Venues in Norwich

About the author: Hiya, I’m Tabitha Woolcott! I’m originally from Brighton but currently live in Norwich, where I’m studying American Literature with Creative Writing at the University of East Anglia. I’m a big old book nerd, a radio DJ at UEA’s student station, and fashion fanatic who can’t resist a charity shop.

Going to a gig is my favourite activity for a student night out – and I’m definitely of the opinion that any great gig needs an equally great setting. In an intimate space with a strong community feeling, live music definitely hits different. It just so happens that Norwich is home to a lively local music scene, meaning we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to charming independent venues!

Whether you’re looking for a smooth jazz set at cocktail hour, a metal gig to get loose to, or a new indie artist to pad out your playlists, you’ll find yourself covered. Check out this list of Norwich’s best grassroots venues for your next live music fix!

Gonzo’s Two Room and Voodoo Daddy’s Showroom

Did you know Norwich is home to Radio One’s Best Dance Venue in Europe? Located on London Street in the city centre, Gonzo’s Two Room is a 200-capacity basement venue hosting unbelievable nights, from local DJ talent to international tours. Energetic and eccentric, it beat out icons like London’s Fabric and Ibiza’s Amnesia for its award, and for good reason. An event held at Gonzo’s is not an event to be missed! Ticket prices here can range, but usually sit at around £5-12 – and the atmosphere alone is worth the price of admission.

Sidled up next to Gonzo’s is Norwich’s ‘best/only dive bar’, Voodoo Daddy’s, where the walls are leopard print and Guitar Hero is free. They tend to host more bands, with typical line-ups composed of indie-rock, post-punk and punk-pop artists. The drinks here are exceptional, and therefore a little more highly priced, but you can also grab an absolutely massive piece of some of Norwich’s best pizza for £5. It’s so big, the slice comes in slices!

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The Holloway

Situated among the many fantastic independent businesses on St. Benedict’s Street, this tiny, quirky 60-capacity venue fits perfectly into Norwich’s cosy vibe. Upstairs is a rickety wooden-floored coffee shop full of books, zines and work by local artists; downstairs in the basement, you can catch one of their regular dreamy indie or folk gigs with a mug of filter coffee in hand. Tickets are reasonably priced, at around £8-15; if a relaxed and intimate concert atmosphere is your go-to, make The Holloway the next venue you visit!

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Space Studios

Hidden away in the Norwich Lanes, Space is one of Norwich’s best and most vibrant grassroots venues. With its capacity of 100 and its rooftop bar, it definitely has the vibe of an elevated house party! They’re best known for their high-energy house and tech DJ nights, but you’ll find reggae, soul, jazz and ambient music nights on their calendar, too. They’re also frequented by musicians who span the genres, from hardcore to indie rock – there’s something for everyone, so be on the look-out!

One of the best things about Space is that many of their nights offer limited free admission. Plus, you can snag a 10% student discount on Thursdays! However, those who face difficulty climbing stairs should be warned that the venue is only accessible by stairwell, as it is spread across the building’s three upper floors.

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Norwich Arts Centre

From craft markets to workshops to spoken word, there’s always something going on at Norwich Arts Centre, which sits in a Grade 1 listed building on St Benedict’s Street (a converted church decked in historic Norwich flint!). It’s also a great place to catch a gig – the likes of Oasis and Nirvana have graced their stage – and you’ll find some exciting touring pop and rock musicians on their roster today.

Their bar (which has a hearing loop and dropdown accessible bar) is well-stocked, including locally-produced gins and ciders as well as coffee sourced from Norwich favourite Strangers. Drinks here are a little bit more expensive, with pints at around £7, but they do have a full menu listed online for you to check out before you visit!

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Pubs with live music

Got pub plans, but still want to scratch that concert itch? Norwich has some fantastic pubs and bars offering live music, perfect for a more low-key evening out. You could start with the Last Pub Standing, a personal favourite of mine – this cosy pub on King Street is the best place to catch a slick soul DJ set or a gig from Norwich’s grassroots. Buzzy newcomer Dead Wax is sleek and vibrant, with indoor and outdoor seating and fantastic cocktail specials (as well as a thrifty loyalty scheme!).

Alternatively, The Reindeer on Dereham Road offers one of Norwich’s best roast dinners for £16 – you could eat like a medieval king, then lounge through an evening of live folk, rock or jazz. Further out, The Brickmakers up near Catton is a local gem, accessible from the city centre by the 11A bus. With non-stop cheap or free gigs and a chilled, welcoming vibe, it’s a must-visit for members of the alternative scene!

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Need a Norwich student home to head back to after your gig?

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Whilst you’re out having fun in your new uni city, remember that UniHomes promotes responsible drinking, and any alcohol products featured within this article are for ages 18+.

The views and opinions expressed in these blogs are those of the UniHomes Content Ambassadors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of UniHomes. UniHomes accepts no liability for the content of these Student Blogs.