5-Minute Catch-Up: What’s New in Norwich?

26 January 2026

5-Minute Catch-Up: What’s New in Norwich? 

by Katie Thompson

There’s always something to look forward to in the City of Stories- sometimes it’s hard to keep up! From the Sainsbury Centre’s upcoming exhibition programme to Yalm’s latest pop-up (your tummy will soon be rumbling). Plus, there’s news for fashionistas and accessibility in the City of Stories. While in Norfolk, there’s plenty to do for the little ‘kids’!

Whether you love to explore Norwich’s lesser-known gems, are looking for things to do with children or can’t get enough of a certain marmalade sandwich-loving bear, keep reading for a quick catch-up on the latest news in our fine city!

---

Paddington Celebrates 1 Year in Norwich 

11 February marks Paddington’s first anniversary in the City of Stories! In honour of this marmalade-loving bear’s milestone, you can take a completely new souvenir photo with him on his bench in its new location in Cathedral Close. 

Moving just round the corner from the Herb Garden, you’ll find Paddington in the Upper Close, a short distance from Norwich Cathedral’s Hostry entrance.

The Forum Takeover Norfolk Deaf Festival 

Joining The Forum’s fantastic line-up of in-house festival and events (which include none other than Heritage Open Days, Norwich Science Festival, Norwich Games Festival and Norwich Book Festival), Norfolk Deaf Festival returns to the city in June 2026! 

Celebrating the local D/deaf culture and community, you can join others in learning about hearing loss through role models, exhibitions, workshops and a local craft fayre. 

Norfolk Deaf Festival takes place at The Forum from 26 – 28 June 2026.

ROARR! Launches Toddler Thursdays 

If you’re looking for an exciting midweek dinosaur-themed adventure for your little ones, ROARR! is here to help! Their brand-new Toddler Thursdays are specifically designed with pre-schoolers and their grown-ups in mind. 

Think Dinomite Indoor Soft Play, role-playing at Dippy-Ville, outdoor play equipment in Dippy’s Land and an exclusive menu at Dinomite Cafe. 

ROARR!’s Toddler Thursdays run every Thursday during term time from 11am – 3pm (adults £10 alone or with 1 preschool child, children 90cm+ £10, children less than 90cm £2).

‘Meet the Kids’ to Return to the Goat Shed 

Spring at the Goat Shed is set to be highly anticipated this year thanks to the pitter-patter of tiny hooves! From mid-March, you might get a glimpse of adorable baby Boer goats and with the return of their ‘Meet the Kids’ events, you’ll be able to spend time with these new arrivals, enjoy cuddles and get the ultimate selfie. 

While you’re here, you might notice some baby Simmental cows too! Since New Year’s Day, 7 calves have been born (you’ll spot them in their little blue coats). You can meet them properly in the Goat Shed’s relaxed Cow Club sessions (£6pp, select dates until 20 February). 

The Goat Shed’s ‘Meet the Kids’ will return in spring. 

Yalm Welcomes Brand New Pop-Up  

Next in Yalm’s exciting series of pop-up kitchens is none other than award-winning street food The Cabin. Known for their signature tacos, The Cabin are bringing their take on Korean SSAM to Norwich’s buzzing food hall.  

Think fillings bursting with flavour, wrapped in everything from crisp lettuce and rice pancakes to flatbreads and toasted nori. You can expect bold Asian-inspired plates and quality local ingredients rooted in chef Justin’s travels across the continent. 

Discover SSAM at Yalm between 5 February – 12 April, 12pm – 10pm.

Sainsbury Centre Announces 2026 Exhibition Programme 

Continuing their series of eye-opening and thought-provoking seasons, the Sainsbury Centre has announced its next two questions: ‘What is the Meaning of Life?’ and ‘How Do We Find Love?’. 

‘What is the Meaning of Life?’ explores the ideas of routine and regulation, comparing contemporary works with historical artefacts, the concept and significance of play in different cultures, and how international artists have tackled this recurring question.  

Then ‘How Do We Find Love?’ showcases the raw reality of everyday intimacy and relational dynamics through photography, follows visual depictions of kissing from pre-history to 21st century imagery, and looks at love beyond romance, through kinship and mourning. 

The Sainsbury Centre’s season ‘What is the Meaning of Life?’ runs from 16 May – 15 November, with ‘How Do We Find Love?’ following from 14 November 2026 – 30 May 2027.

Bishop’s House Garden Dates Announced for 2026 

One of Norwich’s hidden gems, each year Bishop’s House in Cathedral Close opens up its beautiful garden across 8 Sundays in spring and summer for charity. This year, you can visit these manicured lawns and blooming borders between 10 May and 26 July, supporting charities like Norfolk Wildlife Trust, St John Ambulance and Norwich Door to Door. 

Take your time in this city centre oasis, breathing in the sweet scent of wildflowers and roses, an apple tree orchard, kitchen garden and more. Then treat yourself to a slice of homemade cake as you listen to local singers and choirs. 

Bishop’s House Garden is open on select Sundays from 10 May – 26 July, 1pm – 4.30pm, adults £5, children FREE. For the full list of dates, visit their website.

Topshop to Land at John Lewis Norwich 

The long-awaited return of Topshop to British high streets is upon us. From February 2026, John Lewis Norwich (as one of 32 John Lewis stores across the country) will stock this favourite brand.  

You can expect a curated selection of Topshop’s most-loved pieces, including cult denim styles and statement jackets alongside modern menswear and elevated staples as part of Topman. 

Topshop will be available in John Lewis Norwich from February.