Plains of Norwich The Dutch and Flemish who came to Norwich in the 16th century left their mark on the Norwich landscape and local language. From the Dutch 'plein', the Norwich 'plains' define the squares and open spaces of land, in the midst of the narrow maze of streets. Maddermarket Plain, St Giles' Plain, St Benedict's Plain, St Margaret's Plain and St Andrew's Hall Plain can be found in the Norwich Lanes area.