From the early 15th century, the freemen governed Norwich in relative harmony for 250 years – in marked contrast to other large rival towns in England such as Bristol, York and Newcastle.

The annual freemen’s outing is a popular event which now attracts hundreds, including freemen from overseas. Visits are often to properties which have received substantial grants from the freemen’s charity.

Anybody who wished to trade freely in medieval Norwich had to become a freeman.

Until 1835 only freemen could vote in the Norwich local elections. This created problems as rate payers did not have the right to vote.