Becoming a Freeman of the City is one of Norwich’s oldest and most treasured customs, dating back hundreds of years. Originally, Freemen were members of medieval guilds—merchants and craftsmen who helped shape and strengthen our city.
In those early days, Freemen enjoyed important rights, including the ability to trade freely and vote in local elections. People could become Freemen through birth, by serving an apprenticeship, or by purchasing the title. While many of those historic privileges have since faded, the honour remains an important part of Norwich’s heritage.
Today, Norwich Freemen benefit from The Norwich Freemen's Charity which provides pensions, grants and other support. The tradition still passes down through families and, in some cases, through apprenticeships.
Each year, we invite new applications—helping to keep this remarkable piece of Norwich history alive.
Applications for 2026 are now open
To apply, you must meet one of these criteria:
- You are the child of a Freeman
- You have completed at least a four-year apprenticeship with a Freeman within the city boundaries
The deadline to apply is Monday 5 January 2026.
If more than one family member is applying, please let us know in the notes section at the end of the form, so we can seat families together at the ceremony.
Please note: The ceremony has a limited space of 15, so applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you are not successful this year, you will be offered a place in the next available ceremony.
Ceremony details
Successful applicants will be invited to a Ceremony of Admission held in the Council Chamber at City Hall on Friday 27 February 2026.
The event includes the official oath-taking followed by refreshments.
For any questions, please contact: civicoffice@norwich.gov.uk
