Pull's Ferry Norwich

In the medieval period transportation was a persistent problem, especially transportation of heavy building materials. Roads were poor so wherever possible building materials were transported by boat. Before work began on the cathedral in the 12th century a narrow chance, or canal, was dug from the River Wensum to the building site.

Heavy stone, much of it from France, was brought up the canal to the site. In addition to stone from Caen, timber from the Baltic came up the canal, along with iron from Sweden. It was not only building materials that came through the watergate; peat from the great East Anglian fens was brought here to be used as fuel in the priory kitchens.

In the 15th century an arched gateway was built across the canal, and it is this gateway that is the most obvious historical feature of Pull's Ferry today. The gateway served to guard the approach to the cathedral, but it was not until the priory was dissolved by Henry VIII in the 16th century that the current Ferry House was built, incorporating the earlier gateway. The house was used as an inn, but also as a home for a ferryman carrying people across the Wensum.

JOHN PULL
The first ferryman was named Thomas Howes, or Holmes. The name 'Pull's' recalls John Pull, who became ferryman in 1796. The ferry operated until 1943.

In 1947 the buildings and watergate were saved by a bequest from Camilla Doyle and money raised by Norwich Girl Guides.

Timings & Tours

Friday 06 September:

1100-1600

Saturday 07 September:

1100-1600

Sunday 08 September:

1100-1600

Friday 13 September:

1100-1600

Saturday 14 September:

1100-1600

Sunday 15 September:

1100-1600

Location & directions

Pull's Ferry, Ferry Lane, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 4DH

Directions:

Close to Norwich Cathedral and at the east of Ferry Lane or off the footpath from Bishop Bridge.

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

The venue is not wheelchair, or pushchair friendly.

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