The place to be for kings and queens, earls and lords, this unassuming Tombland haunt lays claim to nearly 1,000 years of history. 

Located on the Cathedral's doorstep, the Maids Head Hotel has been welcoming guests since the 1400s. 

But the building is thought to be even older. 

Norwich historian Walter Rye, who owned the hotel between 1889 and 1895, said it was the second oldest Norman building in the city, behind the Castle.

The Maids Head may be the oldest hotel in the UKThe Maids Head may be the oldest hotel in the UK (Image: Archant Library)

The oldest parts of the Maids Head date from the 1400s but the site was formerly a palace owned by the first Norman Bishop of Norwich, Herbert de Losinga, in the 11th century.

The first record of it being used as an inn was in 1472 when "Robert the Fowler" was hauled before a court for stealing from the landlord.

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Edward the Black Prince, the eldest son of King Edward III, also entertained guests in the hotel and toward the end of the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I toured the isle and was reported to have slept in the Maids Head.

Inside the Maids Head in the 1920sInside the Maids Head in the 1920s (Image: Archant Library)

During World War II the establishment became a popular drinking spot for US airmen who would head across the road to the Samson and Hercules dance hall to blow off some steam and mingle with the locals.

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The famous Paston letters, a collection of letters about life in Tudor England, were also written by members of Norfolk gentry in the hotel.

The Maids Head, August 1990The Maids Head, August 1990 (Image: Newsquest)

As part of the hotel's Norfolk Day celebrations on Saturday, it will be hosting Dr Rob Knee who will be appearing to talk about Sir Edward Coke, the Norfolk man who defied two kings. 

Coke attended the Norwich school from 1560-1567 and later married a member of the Paston family, creating a legacy which still exists today in the form of Holkham Hall.

Tickets for this event, running between 11am and 12pm, can be bought online. 

The Maids Head Hotel as it appears todayThe Maids Head Hotel as it appears today (Image: Newsquest)