The Queen of Iceni - JD Wetherspoon

You'll find this sprawling Wetherspoons right on the water's edge near the railway station, and honestly, the location does most of the heavy lifting. The floor-to-ceiling windows facing the River Wensum make it feel less like your typical chain boozer and more like somewhere you'd actually choose to spend an afternoon. The usual suspects are all here – curry club, fish and chips, and pints that won't require a second mortgage – but it's those riverside views that set it apart from every other 'Spoons in the city centre. Sure, it's still corporate pub fare, but when you're watching the boats drift past while nursing a £2.50 pint, it's hard to complain. The staff keep things moving despite the sheer size of the place, and those early opening hours make it a decent shout for breakfast if you're catching a train from just up the road.