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

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 rare objects on display to mark the European Year of the Normans to tasty food launches, the highly anticipated LEGO Store, festival line-ups and an even more immersive cinema experience. And in Norfolk, embrace our beautiful surroundings with a butterfly walk and retreat! 

So, whether you’re a history buff, budding scientist, foodie or film fanatic, keep reading for a quick catch-up on the latest news in our fine city!

Image: Norfolk Museums Service

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LEGO Store to Open in Chantry Place 

This month marks the opening of East Anglia’s first LEGO Store! From 29 October, you can set foot in this interactive retail space, where new releases, exclusive sets and gifts await for every age. Take inspiration from exciting experiences, events and displays for your next build! 

And for families with little children, let them expend some energy on Chantry Place’s new soft play Toddler Zone (found on the Dining Terrace)! 

The LEGO Store opens in Chantry Place on Thursday 29 October. 

Yalm Welcomes New Pop-Up 

Ready to welcome you over the next three months for ‘proper rotisserie chicken’, Roost is Yalm’s latest pop-up kitchen! From the names behind a selection of Norfolk’s most popular eateries- think Farmyard, Stoke Mill, The Bicycle Shop and The Ingham Swan, this mouthwatering menu showcases free-range chicken, paired with house-made sauces and chicken-fat new potatoes. 

Roost Rotisserie is available at Yalm from 10am, Tuesday – Sunday.

Norwich Science Festival Headliners Announced 

Returning to The Forum for February half term, Norwich Science Festival is a celebration of all things science and technology.  

And next year’s headliners have been announced, with British astronaut Helen Sharman and wildlife filmmaker Gordon Buchanan taking to Norwich Theatre Royal’s stage. Elsewhere, early release events include The Magical Mr West and puppet adventure Tiny Planet. 

Norwich Science Festival takes places from 13 – 20 February. Early release events are available to book now on their website, with the rest of the programme announced and tickets available on 26 November. 

Melville Launch Roast Dinners 

One of Norwich’s most popular bars and eateries, Melville & Sons has officially launched Sunday roasts! Choose from roasted sirloin of beef, chicken or a vegan nut roast, plus all the trimmings, of course. (Crispy potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, vegetable puree, Tenderstem broccoli…) Accompany your roast with cauliflower cheese or creamy leek gratin and end your meal with a comforting dessert like apple and blackberry crumble, sticky toffee pudding or a cheese board. 

Melville & Sons roasts are served every Sunday, 12pm – 7pm. Book your table via their website. 

Norwich Jazz Festival Returns 

Filling up our city’s venues with a vibrant programme of live music, talks and film, Norwich Jazz Festival returns next May. Showcasing some of the most exciting voices in contemporary UK jazz, the first artists to be announced include Mercury Prize-nominated Knats, trip-hop pioneers Red Snapper, tenor saxophonist Emma Rawicz and Scottish pianist Fergus McCreadie. 

Tickets for 2027’s Norwich Jazz Festival are live now. Book via Norwich Arts Centre’s website. 

Wyvern Collection Arrives at Norwich Castle 

In honour of the European Year of the Normans and as part of the programme Bayeux Around Britain, Norwich Castle has welcomed Treasures of the Norman World: Loans from the Wyvern Collection to the Gallery of Medieval Life. A rare and extraordinary display of Norman objects, pieces date from 10th – 13th century from across Europe, linked to items and designs depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry itself. 

You can see Treasures of the Norman World: Loans from the Wyvern Collection at Norwich Castle from 14 October – 7 September 2027. The exhibition is included in admission, children from £13.05, adults from £15.30, pre-book for the best prices. Twilight ticket 1 hour before close £2.50. 

Fairhaven Butterfly Walk Reopens 

A peaceful attraction that showcases our county’s natural beauty, Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden is well worth a visit. Especially since their Butterfly Walk has been reinstated! Running alongside a rippling water channel, this winding path is quiet and tranquil, surrounded by woodland and vegetation, not to mention dotted with wildlife along the way! 

Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden is open daily from 10am – 4pm, adults £12, children £6.50. Book tickets via their website.  

Saporita Now Open on Sundays 

Celebrating a decade in Norwich this November, Saporita is now open on Sundays! Whether you’re treating yourself to an Italian-inspired afternoon tea or munching on panzerotti, pizza or cannoli, this is a slice of authentic Italian street food. 

And to celebrate 10 years, Saporita are holding a special event with drinks, a DJ, free pizza and the obligatory birthday cake (20 November, 7pm)! 

Saporita is open Tuesday – Saturday from 12pm and now on Sundays, 11am – 4pm.

EPIC Screen Opens at Vue in Castle Quarter 

EPIC by Vue has opened in Castle Quarter! As the biggest screens at the cinema, you can expect ‘breathtaking colour’ and ‘next-level 3D sound’. Each one is kitted out with HDR by Barco projectors and immersive sound from Dolby Atmos. Next time you’re heading to the cinema, why not book a seat in an EPIC screen? 

Vue is open daily on Level 5 of Castle Quarter.

Worstead Estate Announces New Year Retreats 

Gathering a curation of Norfolk businesses, Worstead Estate’s new retreat is a gentle way to start the new year- one you won’t regret!

Escape to the countryside for a restorative stay that’s all about switching off and reconnecting. From cosy cottage accommodation and nourishing food to Pilates, floristry and wellness workshops (not to mention a sauna, sound bath and hamper), this is sure to be a mindful and calming getaway. 

Worstead Estate’s new retreat is available in January 2027. To find out more and book your space, head to their website.