There’s always something to look forward to in the City of Stories- sometimes it’s hard to keep up! From a series of new cafe openings to the long awaited The Lions’ Den City launch and exclusive collaborations from Norwich’s shoemaking stalwarts. Plus, we celebrate Norfolk’s first wild beaver in over 400 years!
Whether you’re a wellness devotee, love to get outdoors or can’t get enough of Norwich’s local businesses, keep reading for a quick catch-up on the latest news in our fine city!
The wild beaver living at Pensthorpe is the first in Norfolk since the 16th century!
In a historic moment for Norfolk, Pensthorpe has recorded the first wild beaver in the county since the 16th century! The species (once extinct in Britain) is vital in restoring wetlands, improving water quality and protecting local biodiversity. Sightings are rare (and it’s not a visitor attraction), but the natural return of beavers celebrates our thriving local landscape.
Pensthorpe is open daily from 10am.
Bowhill & Elliott’s exclusive collaborations champion British shoemaking brands and craftsmanship
Not only are Bowhill & Elliott champions of Norwich’s shoemaking legacy, but they’re also champions of fellow British brands. With a series of exclusive collaborations with Dashing Tweeds (chic slippers using their Jacques Villeneuve cloth) and Crockett and Jones (supple leather boots and loafers), Bowhill & Elliott’s selection of handcrafted shoes is timeless and supports local.
Bowhill & Elliott is open Monday – Saturday, 9am – 5.30pm. You can shop these exclusive collaborations in store and online.
Black Sheep Coffee is the latest edition to Chantry Square
Arriving in Chantry Place’s Chantry Square this December is popular British chain Black Sheep Coffee. Known for their unique blends and the world’s first speciality grade Robusta beans, it’s a welcome addition to this bustling food and drink spot. Plus, you can purchase a bag of beans to take home!
Black Sheep Coffee opens at Chantry Place this December.
The Lions’ Den City offer rooftop saunas with views across the Norwich and a large community sauna indoors
With rooftop saunas, Norwich’s only alcohol-free late bar, treatment rooms and a wonderful studio space where you can expect Pilates, yoga, calisthenics and more, The Lions’ Den City is highly anticipated. Opening on Sunday 14 December, you’ll find this new venue on White Lion Street, brimming with the much-loved community spirit The Lions’ Den is known for.
The Lions’ Den City opens on Sunday 14 December. Book sauna sessions and classes via their website.
Pensthorpe’s outdoor adventure play area will receive a major development in 2026
Pensthorpe’s fantastic play area Wildrootz will expand next spring with a major development called The Living Towers, creating the largest nature-based outdoor adventure play space in Norfolk! Think two 9-metre-tall towers which you can climb up inside, linked by a high-level bridge, with living willow growing and weaving throughout, a balancing trail, view net tower and twisting slide!
Pensthorpe’s The Living Towers will open in 2026. Enjoy their Wildrootz outdoor play area daily from 10am.
After a walk around Taverham Mill’s nature reserve, stop for a coffee in their new cafe
Following its recent refurbishment, Taverham Mill’s new cafe is now open! Bringing the outdoors in, this cosy space is dotted with leafy green plants, enhanced with natural textures and punctuated by the scent of rich roasted coffee. A stop here is ideal for a sweet treat or savoury snack after a wander around this stunning nature reserve.
Taverham Mill is open Thursday – Sunday from 10am.
Bowling House’s new dining are is the perfect excuse to get together with your friends
When you’re meeting friends for a night out, there’s nowhere better than Bowling House. It’s the perfect combination of bowling, karaoke and delicious food to feast on. And with their newly refurbished dining area, you can enjoy a snug and intimate experience and keep an eye on the bowling scores! Plus, their brand-new interactive darts board and cocktail menu are the ideal excuse to come back for more.
Bowling House is open Tuesday – Sunday from 12pm.
It’s never too early to look forward to next Christmas!
It may still be December 2025, but if you want to plan ahead (and have something to look forward to!), then Thursford and Norwich Theatre Royal have Christmas 2026 covered.
Tickets to Thursford’s incredible Christmas Spectacular are now on sale for 2026. Running from 10 November – 23 December (from £42), you can expect captivating music, enchanting sets, energetic dance routines and awe-inspiring variety acts. There’s no doubt you’ll feel festive after a show at Thursford!
Thursford Christmas Spectacular 2026 is now on sale. Book tickets via their website.
And in the City of Stories, Norwich Theatre Royal have announced The All New Adventures of Peter Pan as their pantomime for 2026 (5 December – 3 January 2027, from £10)! Laugh out loud at this high-flying adventure as Peter and his friends take on the dastardly Captain Hook once again. This is a show that’s sure to be full of magic, mayhem and mischief- oh, and a little bit of pixie dust!
Book tickets to Norwich Theatre’s The All New Adventures of Peter Pan via their website.
