Swan Pit is a water reservoir located in Norwich and holds the distinction of being the last remaining swan pit in England. Once a common feature across the country, swan pits were artificial water bodies created and maintained to rear swans for food and ornamental purposes, particularly during the medieval and early modern periods. The survival of this example in Norwich represents a rare remnant of historical waterfowl management practices that have otherwise disappeared from the British landscape.
Today, the site functions as a small body of water within the city, accessible via the interactive map which allows visitors and locals to explore the surrounding streets and nearby locations in detail. The reservoir remains of interest to those researching Norwich’s heritage and to birdwatchers keen to observe the waterfowl that inhabit it. Its preservation offers a tangible connection to Norfolk’s past and the role such features once played in English medieval economy and aristocratic life.