Dinosaurs Are Taking Over Norwich!

4 June 2021

Dinosaurs Are Taking Over Norwich!

Are you ready for some T.rex-ific treats? To enjoy shows that are dino-mite? Okay, okay, we’ll stop with the puns. But seriously, dinosaurs are coming to Norwich this summer and we couldn’t be more excited!

Are you a big fan of our ancient friends? Or perhaps you need to start planning some holiday activities with the little ones? Well, look no further for a complete rundown of all the dinosaur-themed-fun happening in Norwich city centre this summer.

1. Dippy on Tour

The Natural History Museum’s iconic and much-loved Diplodocus cast is going on a tour across the UK and is stopping at the Norwich Cathedral. From 13^th July – 30^th October, Dippy will become a temporary resident in the Cathedral Nave, where the centuries-old architecture will provide a stunning backdrop for the famous dinosaur on his only stop in the East of England. Plus this is the last stop on the tour, so the last chance to see Dippy outside the museum – all 26 metres of him! And, it’s free to enter.

2. GoGoDiscover T.rex Trail

Why not take a Jurassic jaunt around Norwich with the GoGoDiscover sculpture trail! 20 large Tyrannosaurus-Rex sculptures will be situated around the city from 12^th July – 11^th September, each one individually decorated by local and national artists. Head down to Riverside, Haymarket, The Forum, Cathedral Close and more locations to spot them, with the full trail map coming soon. Delivered by East Anglian based children’s charity Break, the family-friendly trail also celebrates the arrival of Dippy at Norwich Cathedral. The trail is free, although donations to Break are welcomed.

3. City Food Trail

Dig-in to some dino-themed grub with the City Food Trail. A whole host of local restaurants, cafes and bars will be offering exclusive themed menus as part of this special offer. So, after a busy day spotting T.rex sculptures and visiting Dippy, why not extend your stay in the city, put your feet up and enjoy a delicious meal. (Plus, there’s a dinosaur colouring sheet to keep the kids entertained! Or adults – we don’t judge). Keep your eyes peeled for neon dinosaur signs in the windows of participating restaurants from 12^th July – 22^nd August.

Confirmed restaurants taking place include; Giggling Squid, Logans, Zizzi, Franks Bar, Farmyard, Benedicts, Grosvenor Fish Bar, Fig Bar, Erpingham House, WinePress at the Maids Head, Namaste, Revado Kitchen, The Green Eatery, The Walnut Tree Shade, Mysagarden, The Rumsey Wells and many more to be announced!

4. Norwich Theatre Interlude 

Looking for some educational entertainment, or fun dino-themed activities for the kids? Head on down to Norwich Theatre Interlude, a pop-up circus tent at Norwich Cathedral Close, for some Covid-safe outdoor theatre.

So You Think You Know About Dinosaurs comes to Norwich on the 24^th and 25^th July, and stars dinosaur aficionado Dr Ben Garrod, who has presented television shows with none other than national treasure, David Attenborough. Join Ben as he explores the biggest, deadliest and weirdest predators that roamed the planet, and pits the knowledge of adults against their all-knowing kids! Interactive, educational and entertaining – it’s sure to be a show jampacked with fun! Book your tickets now for only £15 for adults, and £13 for children and concessions.

There’s also fun for the kids with Tot’s Tales – Dinosaur Adventure, an adventure filled story time, and Dino Dance, a playful movement workshop with a Dino Disco at the end! Tickets are £5 per child for Tot’s Tales and £7 for Dino Dance.

5. Brick Dinos

Coming to The Forum from 19th July – 30th August is Brick Dinos! A free, family friendly exhibition in the gallery space this summer, any fans of dinosaurs or LEGO® are guaranteed to enjoy it! Created by artist Warren Elsmore and his team, there will be a huge selection of dinosaurs created from LEGO® bricks on display. Plus, it’s been developed in conjuction with palaentologists, so it’s educational too. Don’t forget to check out the other prehistoric creatures that will be making an appearance to, from tiny insects to a four-metre-long raptor-like Masiakasaurus! You can pre-book your tickets from 5 July here.

6. Castle Quarter Dinos

This July, Castle Quarter will welcome five Jurassic friends, stomping into the centre from 22nd July until 5th August. Five dinosaur sculptures will be hiding around four floors in the centre, including a Stegosaurus, Triceratops, Velociraptor, Allosaurus and a Parasaurolophus sculpture. Take a trail sheet and tick them all off to be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 voucher! And if that’s not enough, there will also be animated, moving dinosaurs for meet and greet sessions every Tuesday from the 10th – 21st August. Check the website for more details.