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! This month, The Sunday Times announced Norwich as the UK’s Best Place to Live for 2026, while the Sainsbury Centre ranked as the most visited attraction in the East of England in 2025!
And there’s more news where that came from. From festival line-ups to the return of our city centre attractions, not to mention exciting new tours and workshops to experience for yourselves. While in Norfolk, it’s time to get out and about- whether it’s wild swimming or a visit to Thrigby’s newest feline resident!
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover or are looking out for the next event, keep reading for a quick catch-up on the latest news in our fine city!
Norwich Castle’s Dungeon Tours Return
From basement to battlements, delve into Norwich Castle’s Dungeon Tour
Norwich Castle really is accessible from basement to battlements thanks to the return of their guided Dungeon Tours. Uncover fascinating stories of crime and punishment in the dungeons of the former county gaol (£4.50, you don’t need general admission to access).
Book tickets to Norwich Castle’s Dungeon Tours at their front desk.
Pub & Paddle Announces 2026 Opening Date
Get ready to see the city from a new perspective when Pub & Paddle reopens
Celebrate the recent burst of balmy spring weather with the announcement that Pub & Paddle full returns on Friday 3 April for their 2026 season! When better than a long weekend to paddle along the River Wensum? (If you can’t wait until then, they’re open Friday to Sunday from 20 March!)
Visit Pub & Paddle’s website to book your chosen route.
Norwich Games Festival Full Programme Announced
Get hands-on with the programme at Norwich Games Festival
One of many exciting festivals this May, Norwich Games Festival (23 – 30 May) has announced their full programme. A celebration of all things gaming, expect industry insights, interactive entertainment and hands-on creativity, this is a wonderful way to enjoy the May half term.
Check out Norwich Games Festival’s full programme via their website.
The Halls Reopen After Refurbishment
The Halls have reopened after a £7.8 million refurbishment!
After a years-long £7.8 million refurbishment, The Halls have reopened! The historic and iconic home of St Andrew and Blackfriars Halls, this modern cultural space is brighter, more accessible and ready to welcome you to concerts, exhibitions, celebrations and more.
Visit The Halls’ website for What’s On.
Fairhaven Wild Swimming Restarts for Spring
Feel refreshed after a wild swimming session at Fairhaven
From April, Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden is welcoming the return of wild swimming! You can enjoy this exhilarating experience at the heart of the Broads National Park, surrounded by natural beauty. The Wildside sauna is on-hand bi-weekly to help you unwind (from 21 March), while The Haven Kiosk will be serving refreshments.
Book wild swimming sessions (including for beginners) via Fairhaven’s website.
The Shoebox Experiences Launch New Tour
See what you’ll discover with The Shoebox Experiences’ new tour
Just when you thought there couldn’t be any more secrets in our City of Stories, The Shoebox Experiences have launched a brand-new tour: The Old Rifle Range & Underground Norwich (adults £20, children £8.50). Hidden beneath Upper St Giles, they’re once again opening up a vast underground space rarely seen by the public.
The Old Rifle Range & Underground Norwich Tour launches in April.
New Workshops at The Cat House
Unleash your inner feline-themed creativity at The Cat House
For any feline fan, a visit to The Cat House is a must when visiting Norwich. Alongside their relaxing lounge sessions, you now have the chance to enjoy the company of their friendly resident cats as you test your skills at paper quilling, keyring felting and board games- cat-themed, of course.
Book your session at The Cat House via their website.
Bishy Barney Boats Launches Wildlife Checklist
What wildlife will you spot on the Broads with Bishy Barney Boats?
When you’re getting out onto the water this year, head into the fringes of the Broads National Park with Bishy Barney Boats. As you motor along these peaceful waterways, children and adults alike can tick off their brand-new Wildlife Checklist (FREE). If you spot 7 out of 10 creatures, there’s a badge with your name on it!
Bishy Barney Boats is bookable now.
Rock N Roll Circus Extra Date Added
James and Razorlight headline the fourth date of Rock N Roll Circus
Just when you thought their line-up couldn’t get any better, Rock N Roll Circus have added a fourth night to their Earlham Park festival! On Thursday 20 August, you can dance the night away to James Razorlight and more, after testing your circus skills outside the big top.
Tickets for Rock N Roll Circus are available now.
Norwich Craft Beer Festival Full Line-Up Live
Sir Toby’s Beers have announced the full line-up of breweries for their Craft Beer Festival
The full line-up for the 2nd Norwich Craft Beer Festival has been announced (1 – 3 May), with a whole host of local breweries, DJs and food stalls taking part. Expect names like Ampersand, Three Blind Mice and Burnt Mill Brewery, and food from BoHo Nachos.
Book tickets for Sir Toby’s Beers’ Norwich Craft Beer Festival now.
New Tiger Arrives at Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens
Meet Lotte- Thrigby’s new rare (and critically endangered) Sumatran tiger
Marking a new chapter in their conservation efforts, Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens have welcomed the arrival of rare Sumatran tiger Lotte from Berlin Zoo. Joining male Raja, the pair will help to preserve this critically endangered species for the future.
Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens is open daily.
Tower Tours Return at The Cathedral of St John the Baptist
At the top of The Cathedral of St John the Baptist’s tower, you’ll be greeted with an amazing 360-degree view
It’s hard to be the panoramic views from The Cathedral of St John the Baptist’s tower! The highest point in the city accessible to the public, after all. And from April to September, their popular Tower Tours return on select Saturdays and weekdays (adults £12.50, children £7.50).
Book The Cathedral of St John the Baptist’s Tower Tours now.
