Summer doesn’t seem like it was that long ago, but here we are in October. Autumn is now in full swing and there’s so much to be excited about. Delicious seasonal food, art and culture, family fun events and more are all in store for us this month in Norwich and Norfolk – the only problem is finding the time to do it all!
The Assembly House
What better way to get yourself in the autumn mood than with an Autumn Hedgerow Tea at The Assembly House. Available until 13 October, you’ll not want to miss bramble hedgerow trifle, falling leaves cupcakes and cinnamon foxes – among a host of other tasty treats. And for something a bit more eerie, you can opt for the Halloween Afternoon Tea, from 14 – 31 October. Prices are £23.95 for one of £47 for two with children’s afternoon teas at £14.95.
Gaia, St Peter Mancroft
Want to get your culture fix? Gaia arrives for a month this October at St Peter Mancroft. This installation by artist Luke Jerram measures 6-metres in diameter and has been created using 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface. As you enter the church, surround sound will play alongside the sculpture to truly immerse you in the experience. This free exhibition is open Monday – Saturday from 10am – 3.30pm, Thursday evenings 6-8pm and Sundays around the church’s usual services. Plus there is an exciting programme of activity including talks on faith, science and the climate crises that you can book tickets for separately.
Norwich Science Festival, The Forum
The perfect event for families and science enthusiasts alike, Norwich Science Festival comes to the city for 8 days, with almost 200 – yes 200! – events to discover. Check out the website for full details and to find the subjects that tickle your fancy. 23 – 30 October.
Norfolk Open Studios
October marks your last chance to experience Norfolk Open Studios – with 6 days left of the festival this month (ends 10 October). Brought to you by Norfolk & Norwich Festival, this free event showcases studios and workshops across Norwich and Norfolk. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover the stories behind the many artists in the region, see and discuss their work, and maybe even come away with a new piece of art for your own home.
Norfolk Open Studios, Jenni Murphy
Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts
If you haven’t been to the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts yet, you’re missing a real trick. This incredible institution is free to enter to view its permanent collection, and the Sculpture Park housed in the gorgeous grounds, which features a new sculpture – Anthony Caro’s Goodwood Steps – a monumental piece spanning over 35 metres in length. But there’s even more to uncover, with special exhibitions (tickets separately). Leiko Ikemura: Usagi in Wonderland (£8) is a fantastic showcase of work, exploring the connectivity of all aspects of nature. For something a bit bolder, set aside some time for Grayson Perry: The Pre-Therapy Years (£12). Taking a look at the artists early works, you’ll discover Perry’s first explorations of gender, identity and more.
GoGoDiscover, Norwich Cathedral
The GoGoDiscover T.rex sculptures will be heading to Norwich Cathedral Cloisters for a special family celebration event to celebrate Dippy the Diplodocus’s last week at Norwich Cathedral at October half-term. Spend some time with your favourite sculpture, including Prideasaurus, B-Rex, T.Pot, Lost Holmes and more! Entry is free with a suggested £2.50 donation for charity. 24 – 31 October.
GoGoDiscover T.rex sculpture
Norwich Black History Tours with Paul Dickson
Did you know that October is also Black History Month? Discover the diverse contribution of black people to the history of Norwich on a tour around the city with Paul Dickson. You’ll stop at landmarks that remind us of the city’s pioneers who fought for the abolition of slavery, with the tour starting at the Museum of Norwich at The Bridewell. £10 ticket price includes museum entry, with the tour suitable for those 12+.
Paul Dickson tours
John Lewis Workshops
If you want to try something new this October, then join in some workshops at John Lewis in their haberdashery section. Learn the basics of macrame (25 October, 10.30am – 12.30pm) and how to make your very own pot hanger. Or if you’re already working on your own fabrics project, why not pop along to the Sewing Circle (28 October 6pm – 7.30pm)? Bring your own sewing along to get support from John Lewis’ very own sewing expert. Both events are free but must be booked in advance with the team in haberdashery on the lower ground floor. Spaces are limited.
Norfolk
Houghton Hall
Houghton Hall in Norfolk is set to be transformed by a major solo exhibition of contemporary British artist, Chris Levine, 528 Hz Love Frequency. Marking the inaugural winter show in the historic grounds of this prestigious art venue, this exhibition will feature a series of new holographic artworks, print works and large immersive laser and LED installations. This is a body of new work created specifically for the unique environs of the house and grounds, running between 22 October and 23 December 2021. Tickets £18 including parking, £10 for students.
