Introduction

St Stephen's Gate was on the west side of the City and was the principal entrance into Norwich. It was on the road from London and the street now known as St Stephens ran straight down from the gate to the Castle. The importance of the gate was reflected in its form and scale. The central block, with the archway of the gate and a chamber over, was flanked by large towers rising higher than the central part. These towers were of a D-shaped plan and had the appearance of two forbidding bastions. There was also a wicket or separate passageway through the gateway on the west side for pedestrians. [1]

The gate was also known as Needham or Nedham Gate (in 1285) and Nedeham Gate. There were certainly gates here by 1285 when they are first recorded in documents but the gates were rebuilt in the 14th century under the auspices of Richard Spynk, citizen of Norwich. [Extract from The Old Free Book, Hudson & Tingey, vol. II, pages 216-22]

Blomefield's citation of the Book of Customs notes that there were 38 battlements 'upon that gate and wicket's. [Blomefield, page98] The Agistment for the Walls in 1451 and 1481 recorded that St. Stephen's ward was responsible for the repair of these gates, and the tower and walls to Brazen Doors. [Liber Albus, f. 177; also in Hudson & Tingey, vol. I, pages 313-5]

During Kett's rebellion in 1549 the rebels 'stopped up's the gates, which were noted to have a working portcullis, while the earl of Warwick and his soldiers 'beat down the gate to enter by'. The master gunner broke down the portcullis of the gate, and 'several breaches [were made] in the walls, between St. Stephen's and St. Giles' gates, to enter by.' [Blomefield, page 248]

These gates were demolished in 1793.