A Norwich Bestiary poetry trail

by writer Daisy Henwood

A Norwich Bestiary is a collection of poems inspired by the animals found in the museum’s collections, around the city, or imagined into key moments in Norwich’s past.

Our poetry trail takes you on a tour of historic locations across Norwich, starting at Norwich Castle. We encourage you to pause at each stop to read or listen to the poems.

Map showing all locations on the trail

Follow the poetry trail

1: In 1075, Emma de Gauder held this castle against the king

Poem 1

2: A crane has arrived to sit on the castle

Poem 2

3: A stag ponders his place on the Buxton Achievement

Poem 3

4: Walrus

Poem 4

5: A dolphin, perhaps

Poem 5

6: Carnival

Poem 6

7: City of Norwich coat of arms planning meeting

Poem 7

8: In the lion's mouth

Poem 8

9: Swithin, or strong bear cub

Poem 9

10: Thomas Pykerell

Poem 10

11: Thomas Erpingham's coat of arms is everywhere if you look

Poem 11

12: In the cathedral, after dark

Poem 12

13: Receipt for the building of Cow Tower

Poem 13

14: At the edge of the jurisdiction of the City of Norwich

Poem 14

15: Robert Toppes - Mayor of Norwich, builder of Dragon Hall

Poem 15

16: Juilian of Norwich as three birds

Poem 16

About A Norwich Bestiary

Medieval bestiaries were books containing descriptions of real and imaginary animals. These descriptions were accompanied by fantastical illustrations and stories intended to teach moral lessons as well as entertain.

Daisy Henwood is one of three writers in residence appointed as part of our Royal Palace Reborn project. Their aim is to bring medieval Norwich to life for different audiences.

Daisy worked with young people aged 14-18 through workshops inspired by medieval bestiaries. Together, they created a bestiary for Norwich.

Illustrations have been provided by Zoe, Oskar, Florence, Mabel, Kitty, Pepper, Catriona, Vesper and Phoenix.