A Norwich Pub with Nearly 200 Years of History

The Whalebone on Magdalen Road has been at the heart of Norwich’s NR3 community since the early 1830s, with records suggesting buildings stood on the site as far back as 1824. For almost two centuries, it has remained a true local – evolving with the city while holding on to the character that makes a proper neighbourhood pub.

The first known landlord, Richard Sexton, ran The Whalebone until 1846, laying the foundations for what would become one of Norwich’s most enduring pubs. Its name is thought to come from a striking whalebone arch, donated by a merchant seaman in the 19th century and traditionally displayed at the gates of nearby Sewell Park – a local landmark that helped give the pub its distinctive identity.

By 1865, the pub had become known as the Whalebone Brewery and was later owned by Bullards & Son, one of Norwich’s most significant brewing families. Traces of this heritage can still be seen today, including a rare Victorian bar back with original mirrors advertising Bullard & Son – a unique feature that connects the present-day pub to its brewing past. The building next door, now a garage, once served as the brewhouse and was said to house an impressive oak beam running its full length.

Over the years, The Whalebone changed hands many times – more than 20 in fact – reflecting the shifting story of Norwich’s pub trade. A more settled chapter began in the early 1990s, when Mike Lorenz took over in 1992, bringing decades of experience in the industry. In 1994, Steve Fiske joined as general manager, helping to shape The Whalebone into the well-loved, independent freehouse it remained for the next 30 years, known for its strong focus on real ales and its loyal local following.

In June 2024, The Whalebone entered a new era when it was acquired by De’Ath Hospitality, a Norwich-based group behind several respected pubs including The Unthank Arms, The Warwick Arms and The Trafford Arms. With a shared commitment to preserving the character of great local pubs, the next chapter of The Whalebone looks set to build on everything that’s come before.

Today, The Whalebone remains what it has always been at its core – a welcoming, characterful Norwich pub. With its traditional front and rear bars, original features, heated terrace, and The Malthouse function room, it continues to bring people together, serving local and regional ales in a setting shaped by nearly 200 years of history.