Welcome to our Amber Radio local community page which we hope you'll find useful. Our Notice Board includes events and general information, and our Amber Directory is a more detailed look at - well - virtually anything!
(From open gardens to museums, music to sports, charities, hobbies, leisure groups, heritage railways...just click on the boxes to get on the right track!)
Remember, events can change –
sometimes at the last minute – so check with the organisers before you go
And if you’re organising an event, please send details a few weeks in advance to: community@amber.radio together, if possible, with a link to your website and/or Facebook page.
Now sit back, relax with a cuppa
and read on….
If you’re in Norwich you’ll find a new look to
the Castle Gardens this month. It includes a complete revamp of the outdoor Whiffler
Theatre and a brand new community mural celebrating the Gardens’ history and future.
It’s all part of a programme of restoration
and improvements in the Gardens area.
The Whiffler Theatre was built and donated to
the City by the Norwich Evening News to mark the paper's centenary in 1982.
A Whiffler was an historic character in Norwich - an attendant who cleared the path for a procession. It was also the name of a daily column in the newspaper.
Norwich Summer Sessions of free street
entertainment is back for its 13th year. It's every Sunday afternoon in August
and includes live music, street theatre and community performances.
Shows are between 12.30pm and 4.30pm each week with pop-up stages in Gentlemen’s Walk....St.Gregory’s Green....Westlegate....and Hay Hill.
It’s organised by Norwich Business Improvement
District (BID) and Norfolk Community Arts (NORCA)
For more details click here for the BID website
page: www.norwichbid.co.uk/summer-sessions-returns-2026 and here for the NORCA website page: www.norfolkcommunityarts.org.uk/what-we-do/norwich-summer-sessions
Norwich is holding its “City of Stories” summer
trail from Saturday July 18th until the end of August. It’s a free
family-friendly treasure hunt with story book clues across the city centre….and
a chance to win prizes.
To find out more details, click here: www.visitnorwich.co.uk/norwich-summer-trail
For the last 24 years it’s been the only full
season end-of-the-pier show in the world and it’s back again this year. Cromer Pier’s
summer variety show opens on Saturday – June 27th . Host is comedian Jack Gleadow and, with music,
dancing, comedy and more, the show comes complete with a rotating line-up of guests acts.
The season finishes on Saturday September 19th. For full details click
here for the Cromer Pier website page: www.cromerpier.co.uk
The Forum in Norwich is hosting A Fine City
Summer Fete from Friday to Sunday – Aug 28th to Aug 30th.
It’s from 10am to 5pm each day with family fun, games and activities, both inside and
outside. It also includes a street food court, makers and artisan stalls and more. It’s organised
by Fine City Events. Admission is free.
For more details, click here for The Forum website page: https://theforumnorwich.co.uk/whats-on/a-fine-city-summer-fete
Norwich’s Plantation Garden, in Earlham Road, is
set to host a series of outdoor movies. The Picturehouse Outdoor Cinema is
presenting four films over the bank holiday weekend and three more during the
first weekend in September.
It opens on Friday, Aug 28th with “La La Land”. And finishes on Sunday, Sept 6th, with "Jaws". The other films you can catch up with are "The Thing"......” Stop Making Sense” …and “The Goonies”. Along with "Mamma Mia" and "10 Things I Hate About You".
You can find full details by clicking here:
https://www.picturehouses.com/outdoor-cinema/venue/plantation-garden
The annual Maui Festival in Thetford is being
held on the Elveden Estate from Friday to Sunday – August 28th to 30th.
It’s a family-friendly event of international music and performance arts and
includes bands, circus shows, cabaret, children’s events and more.
You can find more details by clicking here: https://www.mauiwauievents.co.uk/
There’s a lot going on at the Whitwell and
Reepham Railway over the bank holiday weekend. Apart from the heritage trains,
there’s also country music. The Steamline Country Music Festival is at the Station
from Friday to Monday - Aug 29th to 31st - with live
music each day starting on Friday evening.
For more details of the Festival and other activities at the railway station, click here: https://whitwellstation.com/
After a month of events, Gt Yarmouth and Waveney
Pride are holding their main Pride Day on Saturday – August 29th. It
includes the Pride Parade which starts at the Marina Centre at Midday. That
will be followed by an afternoon of entertainment at the Drill Hall which will include live performances, community stalls, refreshments and more.
For full details, click here for the Gt Yarmouth and Waveney Pride website page: https://gywpride.org/
To celebrate the town’s nautical heritage, Lowestoft
is holding its first maritime festival on Saturday – August 29th. It’s
from 10am to 4pm at the Harbour Quay and includes heritage vessels, stalls,
demonstrations, live shanty music, boat trips and more. It’s raising money for
local maritime charities.
For more details, click here for the Discover
Lowestoft website page: https://discoverlowestoft.co.uk/event/lowestoft-maritime-festival-2026/
And here for the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/lowestoft-nr33-0ae-uk-nr33-0ae/lowestoft-maritime-festival-2026/1576338323510591/?locale=en_GB
The Norfolk Jigsaw Festival returns to
Sharrington Village Hall on Bank Holiday Saturday and Sunday - Aug 29th
and Aug 30th . Now in its third year, it’s open from 10am to 4pm on
both days and includes new and pre-loved jigsaws, a collectors’ corner, a timed
jigsaw contest, a children’s jigsaw den, refreshments and more. The festival is open to all and attracts enthusiasts from around
the country. Entry and parking are free.
For more details, click here: https://sharrington.org.uk
The annual World Pier crabbing championships
return to Cromer Pier on Sunday morning, Aug 30th. Registration is from
9.30am…crabbing is from 10am to Midday…and all the crabs are returned to the
sea.
Then on the Pier Forecourt in the early part of
the afternoon, there’s the crab and lobster festival’s auction of surfboards. The
Blakeney Old Wild Rovers will be singing during the interval.
You can find details of both events on the festival website by clicking here: https://www.cromercrabandlobsterfestival.co.uk/
If you have a dare-devil teddy bear, Dereham Windmill
could be just the place to visit on Bank Holiday Sunday – Aug 30. There’s going to be a special zip
wire installed for your favourite soft toy to fly down from the top! It’s all happening between 11am and 2pm - if teddy's ready to give it a go...
For full details, check the windmill’s events page by clicking here: https://www.derehamwindmill.co.uk/events-exhibitions
The East Coast Truckers will be taking to the
roads again on Bank Holiday Sunday – Aug 30th - for their 39th
annual children’s convoy from Norwich to Pleasurewood Hills. More than 80
trucks and their volunteer drivers make the trip each year, to give
disadvantaged and disabled children a special day out. Subject to any last
minute changes, they expect to leave from Postwick Park and Ride at about
9.30am, heading first to County Hall and Carrow Road before driving onto Lowestoft via Acle and
Gorleston. At about 6pm, on the way home, there’ll be a special parade along Gt
Yarmouth Seafront.
They’ll then head back to Norwich via Filby.
For full details and latest information click here for the East Coast Truckers’ convoy website:https://www.eastcoasttruckers.co.uk/
And here for its X (twitter) page: https://x.com/ectc_charity
Bank Holiday Sunday – Aug 30th – sees the
return of the annual “Ride North Norfolk” cycle day. As usual, Fakenham
community centre is the hub, with routes ranging from 15 miles to 102 miles.
It’s a non-competitive open event with the
first riders setting off from 8am. Others will leave between 9am and 11am.
The ride is organised by the community group, Active
Fakenham, which is dedicated to planning local events.
For full details click here for the Active Fakenham website: https://www.activefakenham.org.uk/
It’s believed
to be the biggest outdoor open bowling event in the country and it’s back again
this year. The Great Yarmouth Festival of Bowls returns to the Britannia
Bowling Greens on the seafront from Sunday August 30TH to Saturday
September 26th. More than 800 people from all over the country are expected to be competing in men’s, women’s and mixed team events and spectators are welcome to
watch for free. There is seating around the greens.
For
details click here www.great-yarmouth.gov.uk/events/festival-of-bowls and here for the Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/gyfob
They say every dog has its day. At the Norfolk
Showground over the bank holiday weekend, they’ll be having two! The annual “All
About Dogs” event for pets, their owners and dog lovers in general is on Sunday
and Bank Holiday Monday – Aug 30th and 31st. It includes everything
from arena displays to fun dog shows and from have-a-go activities to a doggy
disco. There’s even a canine comedy cinema with funniest dog moments.
For full details, click here for the Norfolk Showground website page: https://norfolkshowground.co.uk/event/all-about-dogs/
The 78th Aylsham Show is on Bank
Holiday Monday, August 31st. The annual bank holiday event at Blickling
Park includes main and countryside ring events, competitions, exhibitors, music,
fun fair, amusements and more.
Since launching in 1946, the event has donated more
than £1.1 million to, mainly local, charitable groups.
To check out full show details, click here for the website: https://www.theaylshamshow.co.uk/
The village of Easton had a yard sale in May
which was so successful they’re holding a complete village fun day on Bank
Holiday Monday, Aug 31st. All are welcome. It’ll start with another yard sale from
11am to 1pm. There’ll be fun events at the village hall and around the village from
1.30pm to 4pm. And the day will finish with a Street Feast and a tombola.
For more details, click here for the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/760792130360615/
Harleston and Waveney Festival is on Bank
Holiday Monday, August 31st. It’s at the Recreation Ground on
Wilderness Lane from 10am to 4pm. It includes music and performances, classic
cars, stalls, children’s entertainment and more. Click here for organisers' Harleston’s Future
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/HarlestonsFuture/?locale=en_GB
Sheringham Little Theatre winds up its summer
rep season with one of the winners of its Coastal Playwriting contest.
It’s a comedy drama by Rob White, called “On the Edge” and it runs from
Wednesday to Saturday, September 2nd to September 5th. The play is set in a fictional Norfolk coastal
village with a stubborn pensioner refusing all reason to leave his crumbling
cliff-top house – despite a massive storm brewing.
You can find more details of the Summer Rep season by clicking here for the Sheringham Little Theatre website: https://sheringhamlittletheatre.com/
Bungay Folk Festival returns for its third year
this year….and it’s been extended by an extra day. It’s running from Thursday
to Sunday - Sept 3rd to Sept 6th. There are nearly 80
acts at various venues around the town with free entry to many of the concerts.
The festival also has more than 25 different song, dance and music workshops.
For more details, click here for the Festival
website: https://www.bungayfolkfestival.co.uk/
The annual Lowestoft Jazz Festival is back in
town from Thursday to Sunday – Sept 3rd to Sept 6th. The
programme includes headline stars like Jacqui Dankworth, Jim Mullen and Nigel
Price, and a series of free-to-access community events.
For full details, click here: https://lowestoftjazzweekend.co.uk/
If you fancy a bit of West Coast American
music, and more….the California Dreaming Show is heading to Beccles Public Hall
on Saturday Sept 5th. The show features songs from the likes of The
Beach Boys, Mamas and Papas and The Eagles to The Doobie Brothers, Tom Petty
and Jackson Browne – and more!
Click here for the theatre’s website: https://www.becclespublichall.co.uk/
The North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival is
back for its 17th year on Saturday and Sunday – Sept 5th and 6th.
It’s being held in the Walled Garden at Holkham Hall from 10am until 4pm on both
days. The event includes stallholders with produce from all across Norfolk
along with a range of entertainment from a live cookery theatre to children’s
activities. The festival is run as a not-for-profit organisation with volunteers
helping to promote small, local businesses.
For more details click here: www.holkham.co.uk/whats-on/north-norfolk-food-and-drink-festival
This year’s Strumpshaw Trosh is at the
Strumpshaw Steam Museum on Saturday and Sunday – September 5th and 6th.
It’s from 10am to 5pm on both days and
includes steam engines, tractors, classic cars, ring events, working
demonstrations and more.
Check out more details by clicking here for the
museum’s website: www.strumpshawsteammuseum.co.uk
This year’s Norwich 10k road run is on Sunday
September 6th with the Race Village in Chapelfield Gardens and the
starting point in Theatre Street. After the junior race at 9.15am, the main race
starts at 9.40am. More than 8,000 runners are expected to take part as it heads around
the city.
The race is organised each year by the Norwich
City Community Sports Foundation and raises money for local charities.
For more details, click here: www.runnorwich.co.uk And here for the Run’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/runnorwich/?locale=en_GB
Brancaster Staithe is holding its annual Shanty
Festival from Friday to Sunday – September 11th to 13th. Shanty groups from all over the country will be celebrating the spirit of the sea by singing at The Jolly
Sailors, The White Horse, the Village Hall, St. Mary’s Church in Burnham
Deepdale, and Deepdale Camping Rooms. And, as usual, they’ll be raising money
for charity at the same time – including local Maritime Search and Rescue
stations.
For full details, click here: www.brancasterstaithe-shantyfest.co.uk
This year’s Heritage Open Days
run from Friday September 11th to Sunday September 20th. It’s an
annual event to celebrate the country’s history and culture and includes
chances to see hidden places and try out new experiences – many for free.
There are hundreds in our area, of
course, from tours to exhibitions, open gardens, museums, historic buildings and much more...
To find out more details of events in our area – and elsewhere - click here: www.heritageopendays.org.uk
Cantley is holding its annual fun day on
Saturday Sept 12th. It’s on the Sugar Factory field from 11am to
3pm. Entry is free and it includes live music, a dog show, games and more.
For more details click here for the Instagram
page: https://www.instagram.com/p/DXYnHXBjD7b/
Lowestoft is holding a special two-part
festival to celebrate its past, present and future. It’s a community-run event
called “On The Edge” with a wide range of activities at various venues around
the town. The first part is from Saturday September 12th to Sunday September 20th
with events ranging from an exhibition and theatre performance of when Buffalo
Bill brought his Wild West Show to town in 1903....to educational sessions on
rising sea levels.
The second part is from Saturday October 17th
to Sunday October 25th.
For full details click here for the Festival website: https://lowestoftontheedge.org/
The Norwich Dragon Boat Race roars back into
the City for its third year on Saturday - September 12th. It all
starts from Whitefriars bridge at 10am with each boat of 10 paddlers and a
drummer all competing for glory. The event also includes general entertainment
on the riverside. It’s organised each year by the “Brave Future” children’s
support charity.
For more details about the event and the charity click here for the Brave Futures website page: https://bravefutures.org/events/norwich-dragon-boat-race-2026/
Churches all over the country are holding their
annual "Ride and Stride" fundraiser on Saturday Sept 12th, where
people are sponsored to cycle, walk or drive to as many churches as they can to
raise money for their upkeep.
It all began in Suffolk - in Aldeburgh - in
1981. Now it's nationwide and a vital source of income each year.
The Norfolk Churches Trust's fundraising day
also includes a classic car road trip to Elsing Hall to mark the Trust’s 50th
anniversary.
Meanwhile Suffolk also has a “Pedal and Drive”
Day for vintage and classic cars.
For full details for Norfolk here: www.norfolkchurchestrust.org.uk/bike-ride-walk
For Suffolk, click here for Ride and Stride:
www.shct.org.uk/ride-and-stride
And here for Pedal and Drive: www.shct.org.uk/pedal-drive-car-rally
Keep an eye out for the runners taking part in
the annual “Round Norfolk Relay” on Saturday and Sunday – Sept 12th
and 13th. It’s nearly 200 miles – day and night - around the Norfolk
County border to raise money for the East Anglian Air Ambulance. It starts and
finishes in King’s Lynn with the first leg to Hunstanton beginning from 5.30 on
Saturday morning. It finishes 17 stages later, on Sunday morning….
For more details click here: https://theroundnorfolkrelay.com/
On Saturday and Sunday – Sept 12th
and 13th – it’s another busy weekend on the Sandringham Estate with
the annual Sandringham Game and Country Fair. With arena events, a craft
village, street food, live music and more, it’s from 10am to 6pm each day.
For more details, click here: https://www.livingheritagecountryshows.com/sandringham-game-country/
Here’s an experience…how do you fancy watching
a 20-minute documentary film about taxi drivers, while sat in the back of a decommissioned
black cab. It’s all happening outside the Forum in Norwich from Sunday to
Saturday - Sept 13th to 19th. The film looks at the
personal stories of five professional taxi drivers across the UK. Seating is
for three people at a time and while the film is playing, the idea is to make
you feel like a moving passenger.
The Norwich Theatre website has more details,
by clicking here: https://norwichtheatre.org/whats-on/driving-home/
Great Yarmouth’s annual Beer and Circus
Festival returns to the Ice House in Bridge Street. It’s from Thursday to
Sunday -- September 17th to 20th - and includes a
selection of breweries from across the region alongside circus acts and other
live entertainment. It opens at 5pm to 11pm on Thursday…. Midday to 11pm on
Friday and Saturday…and Midday to 4pm on Sunday.
For more details click here: www.outtherearts.org.uk/events/great-yarmouth-beer-and-circus-festival
Sheringham is holding its annual 1940s weekend from
Friday to Sunday – Sept 18th to 20th. The town is heading
back in time with everything from vintage music and fashion to classic vehicles
and 1940s re-enactments. The North Norfolk Railway will also be holding a special
Saturday and Sunday “Steam Back to the 40s” service to include events at Holt
and Weybourne.
For full details click here for the Experience
Sheringham website page: https://experiencesheringham.com/activities-and-events/1940s-weekend/
And here for the North Norfolk Railway page: https://nnrailway.co.uk/steam-back-to-the-forties-2026/
If you’re a
fan of heritage railways, also check out our “Trains” section in our Amber
Directory. Just scroll down from here.
Southwold is holding another festival…or rather
a FEASTival. It’s on Gun Hill from Friday to Sunday - Sept 18th
to Sept 20th - with live music, a street food court, a craft market,
children’s entertainment and more.
For more details, click here: https://www.zoomevents.co.uk/events/southwold-feastival-2026
Good luck to everyone taking part in the
“Galley Hill Dash” in Norwich on Saturday Sept 19th. Galley Hill is
in Mile Cross, opposite the entrance to Sloughbottom Park, and the idea is to
run about one-and-a-half miles, which is 10 times up the hill …and nine times
down. That’s all starts at 11am. There
are fun races after that, including wheelbarrows, slow bikes and even hobby horses.
It’s organised by EPIC Norfolk and the Mile Cross Project and Events group, and you can find more details on the EPIC Norfolk website by clicking here: https://epicnorfolk.com/galley-hill-dash/
The Henham Steam and Country Show is back for
its 50th year this year, It’s at Henham Park on Saturday and Sunday
– Sept 19th and 20th - with classic steam engines,
vintage machinery, general family entertainment, displays and more. It’s open
from 9am to 5pm on both days.
For more details click here for the website:
https://henhamsteam.com/
Good luck to
everyone taking part in this year’s Marriott’s Way 10K run on Sunday – Sept 20th
. It starts near to Woodgate Nursery in Aylsham, from 10am…follows a route
mainly along the old railway line….and finishes at Reepham Market Place.
It’s organised
by Broadland Council and entry money helps raise funds for Council community
services and for charity.
For more details
of the event check out the Broadland Council website page, by clicking here: https://www.southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/leisure/marriotts-way-10k
Ready, Steady,
QUACK! The annual Great Yarmouth Duck Races are back at the town’s Waterways on
Sunday, Sept 20th. It all starts from 1pm with heats for the
sponsored decorated giant ducks. That’s followed by public races with duck
numbers for £1 on the day
The event is organised
by local rotary clubs – HR2 and Gt Yarmouth Haven - to raise money for
community projects and local charities.
You can find
more details on their Facebook pages. Here for HR2: https://www.facebook.com/HR2RotaryGtYarmouth/
And here for Gt. Yarmouth Haven: https://www.facebook.com/p/Great-Yarmouth-Haven-Rotary-Club-100071104760047/
Holkham Hall is hosting the 20th Norfolk
Family Walk on Sunday – September 20th – to raise funds for the
Astro Brain Tumour Fund. It’s between 10am and 4pm with walkers stepping out on
routes from one mile to 10 miles. The fund helps with brain tumour research.
For more details, click here: https://www.astrofund.org.uk/20th-norfolk-family-walk/
Get ready for
the Hunstanton Soapbox derby on Sunday – Sept 20th. There’s
entertainment around the Green during the day with races from about 11am to
5pm. They start by the High Street on Greevegate…zoom past the Green…and finish
in Beach Terrace Road by the Bandstand. Obstacles on the course include a new
rattler ramp.
It’s organised each year by the Borough Council. For more details, click here for the council’s website page: https://www.west-norfolk.gov.uk/info/20240/hunstanton_events_and_activities/571/hunstanton_soap_box_derby
Harleston Cinema at the Masonic Rooms in Redenhall Road is presenting the film “The Devil Wears Prada 2”. It's on Thursday September 24th with showings at 2pm and 7.30pm.
For those with compatible hearing aids, a hearing loop has now been installed.
Seats are £5,
under 16s £2.50, please book at Harleston Information Plus in Exchange Street,
Harleston or call 01379 851917 https://harleston-norfolk.org.uk/
Please cancel at
HIP if you are unable to attend.
Cash
only. Ice creams at the intervals, bar also available for the evening
screening where card payments are accepted.
Walk-ins will be
accommodated if possible but only if not fully pre-booked. Please be
aware – if you see tickets for sale on social media, this is a
scam; tickets are only sold at the venue on the night.
All required
Covid measures will be taken, in accordance with current guidelines. The hall
has an air monitoring and circulation system.
Certificate 12,
under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Follow them on
Facebook & Instagram
If you fancy a bit of music on the go…. there’s
an Abbathon in Norwich’s Eaton Park on Saturday, Oct 10th. That’s a 5k
and 10k run complete with ABBA music for company. Competitors can dress for the
part, if they like, and there’s even an Abba tribute band as a warmup before
the race begins.
And – in case you’re wondering - there’s a special edition medal for everyone who finishes, so the winner doesn’t take it all…
If you’d like more details, click here https://runfanatics.com/events/12cd5efe-eb19-497e-b7b3-329abd303bd1
The “Care for Carers” support group is holding
another information day at The Forum in Norwich. It’s on Monday – October 12th
- from 9am to 3pm and is a chance to find out more about the support available
from local and national organisations.
It includes information and advice for carers, ex-carers, older people, the lonely, and more. In fact, anyone with a problem can call in for advice. If there’s no-one there to help, they will, whenever possible, point you in the right direction.
For more details, click here for the Care for
Carers website: www.careforcarers.org.uk
You can also check out the event by clicking here
for the Forum website: www.theforumnorwich.co.uk
Lowestoft is holding the second and final part
of its “On The Edge” Festival from Saturday October 17th to Sunday
October 25th. It’s a community-run event to celebrate the town’s past, present and future and is being held at various venues around
the town. The first part of the festival was in September.
For full details click here for the Festival website: https://lowestoftontheedge.org/
Welcome to the general information section with direct links to a wide range of subjects from recycling centres to event road closures. Don't forget to also scroll down to our "Amber Directory" for a wide variety of clubs, groups, attractions and more.
Launched on June 1st, Age UK Norfolk has a summer campaign to
combat loneliness among the elderly. It’s called “Together This Summer” and it
hopes to encourage local people to take simple steps to help. It could be
anything from checking in with a neighbour, to voluntary work or charity support.
It says when routines change, or families are on
holiday, some elderly people can feel more isolated.
For more information about Together This Summer, volunteering opportunities, or support services, click here: www.ageuknorfolk.org.uk, You can also call 0300 500 1217 or email advice@ageuknorfolk.org.uk .
Norfolk County Council is organising a variety
of free activities for youngsters during the summer holidays…including a “Chill
on the Hill” in Norwich Castle Gardens. That’s for 11-to-17-year-olds on Thursday
afternoons from Two until Six and includes music, creativity and games.
It’s one of the events organised by the Council’s Targeted Youth Support Service in the county. To find out more details of them all, click here: Targeted Youth Support Service - Norfolk County Council
Checking out road closures for major events in Norfolk? Norfolk
County Council has a list of temporary traffic orders for events that require a
road closure. So if you’re planning a trip in the county, you can check it out by
clicking here: www.norfolk.gov.uk/39746
With
more than 1200 children in care in Norfolk and five more every week, Norfolk County
Council are looking for foster carers to offer a loving home.
If
you’d like more details, click here: www.norfolk.gov.uk/41105
Meanwhile, the Fostering Network can offer free advice and support for businesses to become fostering friendly employers. Click here for details: www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk
See also the “Fostering” section in our Amber Directory below
Norfolk County
Council has launched a healthy living website for the over 50s. It’s called “It’s
Never Too Late” and includes details and advice on being active…keeping
connected….and protecting your health. There’s everything from vaccinations and
health checks to keeping fit, social groups and one-to-one support.
Click here for full details: www.norfolk.gov.uk/healthyaging
Don't forget, you now need to book slots at Norfolk’s recycling centres. Bookings can be made up to seven days ahead, either online via the council’s website or by phoning the customer service centre.
Slots are available every fifteen minutes and you can make a booking or cancel one right up until the time of the booking. You will also be asked the registration number of the vehicle you'll be using. Business and trade waste customers will also be asked to
provide their waste carriers licence number.
Everyone needs to book to drop off waste including those arriving on foot or by bicycle. No booking is needed if you are only using the Re-use Shop.
In addition to the booking system, trade customers are now charged based on the size of vehicle and the type of waste they bring, instead of the number of bags.
You can find out more by picking up
a leaflet at a recycling centre or by clicking here: www.norfolk.gov.uk/recyclingbooking . Or call 0344 800 8020
The trade waste service is available at the seven
largest recycling centres: Caister, Dereham, Hempton, King’s Lynn, Norwich
North, Norwich South and Thetford
There are five vehicle categories, and each vehicle
will be assessed and charged as either up to 50% full or over 50% full. Prices
can be found on their web page by clicking here: www.norfolk.gov.uk/businesswaste starting from £10.50 for half a mini-van of
recyclables.
Alternative ways for businesses to dispose of trade
waste can also be found on their web page.
If you live in Norfolk and want to give up smoking, the County Council
has launched a Smoke Free support App. It’s free of charge and offers round the
clock support, health tracking, daily missions, a distraction game and more. You
can download the app to your smartphone via link.smokefreeapp.com/sfnorfolk. For more information about giving up smoking, click here: www.norfolk.gov.uk/smokingsupport
If you’re
looking for ways to keep fit, Norfolk County Council has a 30-day health
challenge website complete with free tips, guidance and support on five
subjects: Aiming for a healthier weight…drinking less alcohol…quitting smoking…eating
more healthily….and being more active.
The “Ready
to Change” website also includes health quizzes plus general information on
free support around the county.
For full
details, click here: www.readytochange.co.uk
Drayton Village Hall hosts a regular coffee morning
on the first Friday of the month to help raise funds for the upkeep and
maintenance of the hall. Check out details at www.facebook.com/draytonvillagehall
Spixworth holds a regular monthly Farmers and Craft Market at Spixworth Village Hall. It’s held on the fourth Saturday every month between 9.30am and 12.30pm. Refreshments are available. It’s free entry and a free raffle ticket for every visitor. For more details check out the Market Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/SpixworthFarmersMarket
Here it is! Our growing list of organisations and contacts which we hope you’ll find useful for everything from places to visit to support organisations and charities - along with hobbies, sports, museums, nightclubs...and so the list goes on. Sit down with a cuppa and click on each one to see what’s there - we have more than 100 to choose from! And if you’re running a similar group and you’re not listed, please let us know so we can help spread the word for you. Remember it's free - just email the details and contact information to community@amber.radio
MUSICAL KEYS is a Norwich-based charity creating inclusive music
and arts opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Through workshops,
creative collaboration, and community events, Musical Keys supports accessible,
expressive, and boundary-free music-making.
To find out more, click here for their website: www.musicalkeys.co.uk
The NANCY OLDFIELD TRUST, which is based at Neatishead, offers accessible boating on the Broads
for people who are disabled or disadvantaged. It was formally registered as a charity in 1984 and has motor cruisers, yachts, canoes and more for people to enjoy a trip on the water, try new activities, improve their self-confidence and increase their environmental awareness. It also offers accommodation. For full details check out their website at www.nancyoldfield.org.uk
If you're interested in local amateur dramatics, either by joining them or simply going along to one of their shows, you might like to check out the Drama Groups website which gives information on AmDram groups, Schools, Societies, Choirs, Troupes, and Clubs.
You'll find sections for Norfolk and Suffolk...along with the rest of the UK and much of the world if you're thinking of going further afield! It's dramagroups.com
ANIMAL CHARITIES
The DOGS TRUST in Snetterton can care for up to 70
dogs and has an on-site training barn, playing fields, playgrounds and even a
bathing and grooming room. If you are looking for a pet, they obviously welcome
visits and they also welcome support including donations of bedding, toys, and
the like. For more details, their website is www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/our-centres/snetterton
NANAS is the NORFOLK AND NORWICH ANIMAL SUPPORT group.
It was founded by ardent animal lovers with a shared passion for protecting and
supporting both wildlife and domestic animals. Its aim is to raise funds and
awareness to support charities, small rescue groups and individuals who help with
animal welfare. Click here to find more details: www.norfolkanimalsupport.org.uk
The NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK ANIMAL TRUST is based at,
what used to be, the old police dog pound in Gt Yarmouth’s Fremantle Road. It’s
run completely by volunteers and has a rehoming service for dogs and cats. It also has a charity shop in Gorleston High Street. To find out
more click here for their website: www.nasatrust.co.uk
PACT – The People for Animal Care Trust – is a
Norfolk-based animal sanctuary which rescues, rehabilitates and, where
possible, re-homes neglected, injured, and abandoned animals. It’s one of the
largest animal sanctuaries in East Anglia and also has its own charity shops.
For full details check out their website www.pactsanctuary.org
SAFE RESCUE FOR DOGS takes in and rehomes dogs from
the UK and abroad. For full details check out their website www.saferescuefordogs.co.uk
STREETVET is a charity which sees volunteer vets
and nurses providing free essential vet care for the pets of people who are
homeless. StreetVet, Norwich was set up in 2019 and they currently have about
30 volunteers giving up their time every Tuesday evening for outreach sessions.
And Taverham Vets carry out the out-of-hours surgeries. If you’d like to
support them in any way or if you’d like more details, click here for their
website: www.streetvet.co.uk/location-streetvetnorwich
YARMOUTH GREYHOUND HOMEFINDERS has found homes for more than 2,500 retired greyhounds since it was founded by Yarmouth Stadium Owner Stephen Franklin in 1999. If you’d like to find out more about the group – and the dogs – here’s their website www.yarmouth-greyhound-homefinders.co.uk
NORFOLK CREATIONS is a
not-for-profit group that showcases the work of local artists and craft makers.
They hold various events each year and if you'd like more details of where
they'll be and their exhibitors, check out their website www.norfolkcreations.co.uk
The SAINSBURY CENTRE at the UEA is
an international art museum and a major national centre for the study and
presentation of art. It has permanent collections along with a range of
temporary exhibitions. It also has a Sculpture Park set in 350 acres of
parkland. For more details check out sainsburycentre.ac.uk
CITY OF NORWICH BRASS BAND was formed in 2014 by musicians
across Norfolk and Suffolk. The band rehearses in Hethersett on Tuesdays and
performs at events throughout the area. For more details, click here: www.cityofnorwichbrass.co.uk
DEREHAM BAND is a well-established brass band which has been playing music in the local area for nearly 90 years. They hold regular concerts and play at various community events throughout the County. If you’d like to find out where you can hear them or even join them, log onto the website by clicking here: www.derehamband.co.uk
NORFOLK WHERRY BRASS was formed in 2004 and over the years the band has not only taken part in various contests around the country but has appeared in TV programmes as well – including Michael Portillo’s “Great Railway Journeys” where Michael even did a spot of band conducting! Members rehearse at the New Victory Hall in Neatishead and perform at concerts all around the area.
If you’d like to find out more the band and events, click here for their website: www.norfolkwherrybrass.co.uk
THE NORWICH CHOIR (FORMERLY NORWICH COMMUNITY CHOIR ) meets on Tuesday evenings in Sprowston and on Thursday lunchtimes in Cringleford and they welcome new members. They have free taster sessions with no auditions and no experience necessary. Check it out by clicking here www.thenorwichchoir.com
The NORWICH PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY was established in
1841 and comes complete with a full-size symphony orchestra and a mixed chorus
of about 120 voices. It performs four concerts of choral and/or orchestral music
each year along with occasional children’s concerts and a family Christmas
concert. It is a registered charity and a
member of Making Music, which supports amateur music making across the UK.
To find out more, click here: www.norwichphil.org.uk
PHOENIX MALE VOICE CHOIR welcomes new recruits.
They meet on Thursday evenings and some Tuesdays in Norwich. They also welcome
everyone to their concerts! For more details click here: NorwichPhoenixMVC.org
FINE CITY CHORUS in Norwich is a chorus of
barbershop singers. They meet on Wednesday evenings at Lionwood School in
Thorpe Hamlet and sing in concert mostly in Norfolk and Suffolk - but
occasionally further afield as well. Every year they attend the British
Association of Barbershop Singers Convention which is held in various locations
around the country. If you'd like to join them, find out more about them, or
even just listen to them, check their website for details (click here) www.finecitychorus.org.uk
SILLARS ORCHESTRA in Norwich was first established in 1926. Over the years the dedicated amateur musicians have been entertaining audiences throughout Norfolk with a popular mix of light music and film soundtracks…and they always welcome new members. For more details, click here for the Orchestra website: www.sillarsorchestra.co.uk
TAVERHAM, BAND, has been playing since 1974. It
specialises in concert work with a focus on entertainment and performs for, and
in collaboration, with many community and charity groups across the region. Its
members range from ex-professional musicians to youngsters developing their
skills. They are a non-contest band. For more details click here for their website: www.taverhamband.org .
VILLAGE VOICES is a community choir based in Brundall, open to everyone - experienced or not - who likes to sing for fun. They perform a range of styles from sea shanties to gospel and from traditional to popular, and regularly sing at charity events. If you’d like more details check out their website by clicking here: https://villagevoices1.wixsite.com/choir
Broadland and South Norfolk has a special Help Hub to offer practical support and advice for anyone in both areas. It could be anything from money worries to domestic abuse or from employment and training to a handy trader…The Help Hub is a partnership with a wide variety of different organisations. For full details click here https://www.southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/help-hub
*If you live or work in Norwich
and want the freedom of having a car without the expense of owning one, the
city has a special car club. Members can pick up a car from a dedicated parking
bay at any time of day or night...and then return it once they’ve finished. And
there are bays all across the city. If you’d like more details, check out norwich.gov.uk/carclub
*Norwich has one of the highest
levels of walking and cycling in the country...so if that includes you and
you'd like a copy of the Norwich city cycle map, you can download it for free
from the website norwich.gov.uk/cycling
*If you fancy cycling around the
city, but you haven’t got a bike…don’t forget Transport for Norwich has a bike
share scheme with Beryl Bikes. You can hire bikes, e-bikes and e-scooters from
cycle bays dotted all around the Norwich area. For more details check out beryl.cc (Transport for Norwich is a
partnership of local authorities to improve road links and to encourage
sustainable forms of transport.)
NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK DOWSERS promote traditional dowsing techniques and enjoy the local countryside and its colourful history. They also support dowsing for Health, Earth Energies, Archaeology and Water Divining.
They have monthly meetings. No experience is required as tuition will be provided.
For more details: norfolkandsuffolkdowsers@gmail.com or check out their Facebook page by clicking here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093606315410
THE “DRAGON SHIELDS” are a Norfolk-based Dark-Ages battle re-enactment group and they’re looking to recruit new members! They run a comprehensive training course, and. they say, after a hard day’s fighting there’s nothing better than to sit around the campfire in good company with a cup of mead. You don’t have to do battle – there are other roles as well. Check out their Facebook page for details (click here) www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551669009312
THE FRIENDS OF NORFOLK DIALECT (FOND), was founded in 1999 with the aim of preserving, recording, and promoting, the
Norfolk accent. Members organise or feature at various events during the year including
their own annual Norfolk panto. You can find out more via their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/fondnorfolk
The GREAT YARMOUTH AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB are looking for guest speakers willing to give a talk lasting 45 minutes to an hour. They’re also looking for new members. When it began in 1978, it was a male group and for those who were retired, but now it’s open to everyone and you’re welcome to first visit as a guest. It meets on Wednesday mornings at the Assembly Rooms in Marine Parade. For more details about the club, you can check out their Facebook page www.facebook.com/GreatYarmouthandDistrictProbus
NECTON MEN’S SHED welcomes new recruits. Members get together for a
couple of hours each week and also take on projects to help with gardening and
occasional repair work. They meet in the Necton Sports and Social Club on
Tuesdays from 10am to 12 noon. For more details, contact John on 07969 381 604
or email suejohn451@hotmail.co.uk
NORFOLK GHOSTBUSTERS are all huge fans of the Ghostbusters movies and often travel out and about in their outfits raising money for charity...particularly the East Anglian Children's Hospice. If you'd like more details check out their Facebook page (click here) https://www.facebook.com/groups/487757266687931/
The NORWICH GILBERT AND SULLIVAN SOCIETY is an appreciation
group for all those interested in the composers and their operettas.
The group meets on various Saturday afternoons in Sprowston for
films, talks, quizzes, listening to recordings and more. Performing members also
stage the occasional public show.
If you’d like to learn more, click here for the Society’s website: www.norwichgands.co.uk
The NORWICH AND NORFOLK MEDIEVAL ASSOCIATION was formed in 1975. It’s based in Norwich, but members travel all over East Anglia with their 14th century living history displays. They portray ordinary lives of the time from crafts and cooking to clothing and weaponry and more. They describe themselves as a friendly, family orientated group and they also welcome new members. If you’d like more details click here: www.nanma.co.uk
The NORFOLK KNITTERS AND STITCHERS have been knitting, stitching, and crocheting for charity since 2008. It's a popular organisation - and pastime - with more than 130 groups across the county. If you'd interested in finding out more, they'd love to hear from you. Click on their website here: norfolkknitters.org.uk
OPEN CIRCLE in Binham is an informal group of women who get together once a month at Binham Memorial Village Hall to make friends, learn new things and raise money for local
charities. New members and guests are welcome. If you'd like more details email collyershirley@gmail.com or tw60ham@gmail.com
The NORWICH STAR WARS CLUB UK was founded in 1999 and has been at all the flagship Star Wars celebration events. It has its own costume group called The Heroes and Villains and has appeared at various events across the country. On the last Friday of the month, they have a club night which is open to all and includes jedi training.... If you'd like to find out more, check out their If you'd like to find out more, check out their Facebook page (click here) www.Facebook.com/NorwichStarWarsClubUK
STARGAZING. We're not talking about celebs here, were talking about the night sky! Whether it's a hobby and you just enjoy going outside every now and then and simply gazing, here's a website you might be interested in. Click here: gostargazing.co.uk
To find out details of the County Council, District, Borough and City Councils, log onto https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/what-we-do-and-how-we-work/your-local-councils-and-mps/local-councils
For details of town and parish councils check district council websites.
The Norfolk Community Directory is run by Norfolk County Council and has information on a huge range of topics. Things to do…money and legal advice…childcare and family support…help at home…health and wellbeing…learning, work and volunteering….and so the list goes on! A real go-to list for so many subjects. Check out their website. communitydirectory.norfolk.gov.uk
"IntoUniversity" in Norwich is an educational charity which offers free after-school academic support to youngsters from the age of seven to eighteen.
Primary School children get to follow a curriculum based on degree subjects, while Secondary School and College Students also receive support on everything from homework and exams to interview techniques, apprenticeships and even gap years. The idea is to give extra support to help them fulfil their potential.
The charity – which was launched in 2021 in partnership with the UEA – is based at the West Earlham Centre in Norwich.
For more details contact the Norwich IntoUniversity Team on: norwich@intouniversity.org or 01603 367 525.
If you would like to find out more, their website is www.intouniversity.org or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntoUniversity/
NORWICH ARTS CENTRE is housed in the 14th century St Swithin’s Church in St Benedict’s Street. It moved in in 1980 and is home for a wide variety of shows from up and coming talent to
established entertainers. For full details check out norwichartscentre.co.uk
COMEDY
CLUBS….If you’re looking for a bit of laughter, the Norwich-based Hooma Comedy
Club (as in sense of hooma….!) organises Comedy Clubs, not only in the City,
but all over Norfolk and North Suffolk – and further afield as well.
To
find out more check out their website by clicking here: www.hoomacomedy.com
THE GARAGE TRUST is a Norfolk-based performing arts charity which runs arts centres in Norwich and King’s Lynn. (In King’s Lynn it’s called The Workshop). It runs dance, drama and music classes, runs a wide variety of community projects, supports new talent and more – including, of course, putting on shows. The Garage in Norwich is based in Chapel Field North. Their phone number is 01603 283382 and you can check out their website by clicking here: www.thegarage.org.uk The Workshop in King’s Lynn is in Conduit Street. Their phone number is 01553 277919 and you can check their website here: www.theworkshop.org.uk
THE HALLS (reopened Spring 2026 after renovation works.)"The Halls" in St. Andrew's Plain incorporates St Andrew's Hall, Blackfriars' Hall and smaller areas including a crypt and cloisters. They regularly host concerts and more. For more details click here for the website: www.norwich.gov.uk/thehalls
THE MADDERMARKET is a 300-seater
community theatre which hosts both professional and amateur entertainers and is
the home theatre of the Norwich Players. Shows can include everything from
stand-up comedy to hair-raising rock! The theatre also works with local and
national arts organisations, schools, charities and community groups. To find
out more and to check out the shows, the box office number is 01603 620917 and
the website is maddermarket.co.uk
NORWICH PLAYHOUSE in St George's
Street, celebrated its 25th anniversary as a theatre in 2020. It has 300 seats
and entertainment includes live music and performing arts. It also has a beer
garden and two galleries. For more details of events, log onto norwichtheatre.org (Alongside the river, the
building dates back to the late 19th century and was once used as a maltings)
NORWICH PUPPET THEATRE in
Whitefriars, has been running for more than 40 years at its home in a medieval
church. Apart from shows, the theatre has activities and workshops for all
ages. It has its own theatre company and a team that visits schools and groups
around the county. For more details, phone 01603 629921 or check out their website puppettheatre.co.uk (Incidentally, it's one of
only three building-based puppet theatres in England!)
THE SEWELL BARN THEATRE COMPANY is
an “in house” drama group which puts on a variety of plays throughout the year.
It’s based at the Barn at Sewell Park Academy in Constitution Hill in Norwich.
The group has an information line, 01603 418803 and the website is www.sewellbarn.org (The barn was originally
owned by Philip Sewell, brother of “Black Beauty” author Anna Sewell. From
being a hay barn, it became a theatre during the First World War, and a bicycle
shed for girls in the days of the old Blyth School. The Sewell Barn Theatre has
been there since the 1970s.)
NORWICH THEATRE ROYAL. Apart from
the main theatre itself, the Theatre Royal in Norwich also has “Stage Two” – a
fully equipped 120-seater which, apart from shows, is also used as rehearsal
studios and training spaces. For details of shows at both venues AND Norwich
Playhouse, go to norwichtheatre.org
The UEA LCR is a live music venue
on the university campus and is linked with The Waterfront – now with
sponsorship, named The Adrian Flux Waterfront – in King Street. Both are run by
the Union of UEA Students. For details and tickets for both, and to check other
venues they work with, log onto ueaticketbookings.co.uk
If you’re looking for nostalgia,
the East Anglian Film Archive goes as far back as 1896 with about 12,000 hours
of film and up to 30,000 hours of videotape – most of them covering the East of
England. Many of the films are available to watch…and they’re also keen to add
to the collection. So if you have any old films gathering dust, or you’d like
to find out more about the Film Archive itself, check out eafa.org.uk
*The group - which is run by the UEA and has its base at County Hall - is part of a national network of public film archives called Film Archives UK www.filmarchives.org.uk
The Norfolk
Community Foundation's "Nourishing Norfolk Network" is the umbrella group for a series of more than 20 local food
hubs. They also offer help in other ways from tech support to debt or energy advice,
form filling, legal advice and much more. They currently assist more than
24,000 people and would like anyone who might be struggling to know that help
is available. They also welcome volunteers.
Check it all out at https://www.norfolkfoundation.com/giving-and-philanthropy/back-our-key-initiatives/nourishing-norfolk/nourishing-norfolk-network/
THE TRUSSELL TRUST supports a nationwide network of food banks to provide emergency food and support to people in crisis. Once someone has been referred, they can exchange a voucher for a food parcel to cover a minimum of three days. The food banks can advise which agencies can offer referrals. It has centres throughout Norfolk and North Suffolk. Check out full details including centre information at www.trusselltrust.org
With more than 1200 children in care in Norfolk and
five more every week, Norfolk County Council are looking for foster carers to
offer a loving home.
If you’d like more details, click here: www.norfolk.gov.uk/41105
Meanwhile, the FOSTERING NETWORK can offer free
advice and support for businesses to become fostering friendly employers. Click
here for details: www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk
NEXUS FOSTERING, based just outside Norwich, supports foster
carers and children in the local area. They say there’s an urgent need for more
foster carers and would love to hear from anyone who would like more details.
Click here for the group’s website: www.nexusfostering.co.uk/office-locations/norwich
AMBER’S ARMY is a charity to support
Norfolk families with a child who has a terminal cancer diagnosis. They work
with the whole family on providing emotional support and helping to create happy
memories and experiences. They also offer a guide to other support groups –
from emotional to financial. Many families are referrals but you can also
contact them directly. If you’d like more details of the charity, their
services or how you can help, check out their website www.ambersarmy.org.uk
The BIG C cancer charity was
founded by two young men – David Moar MBE and Clive Bamford – who after travelling
to London and Cambridge for their own treatment were determined that local
people would have facilities and support nearer to home. It is ready to support anyone affected by cancer
in Norfolk and North Suffolk, whether it is someone with a diagnosis or their
loved ones. Check out full details at their website www.big-c.co.uk
“IT’S ON THE BALL” is a charity
based in Norwich set up to provide support to patients and their families and
raise awareness of testicular cancer. Their aim is to ensure all men between 15
and 45 in Norfolk are aware of the signs and symptoms and to have the
confidence to seek medical advice when something doesn't feel right. To find
out more go to itsontheball.org
LITTLE LIFTS is a Norwich-based charity which has the aim of giving every breast cancer patient in the UK a free gift box when they start treatment. The boxes include a variety of items from a soothing heat pack for pain relief to luxury body lotion, organic chocolate and treats to promote relaxation. There are chemotherapy and radiotherapy boxes with all items selected by people with experience of breast cancer treatments.
To find out more, click here: www.littlelifts.org.uk
STAR THROWERS is a cancer support charity based in Wymondham which
offers free individual assistance to patients and carers. Its aim is to support
people from diagnosis to life after cancer and offers help with everything from
counselling to nutrition and diet support. It’s available for all cancer
patients and carers aged 18 plus and if you’d like more details their website
is www.starthrowers.org.uk
THE BENJAMIN FOUNDATION is a
Norwich-based charity which helps young people experiencing challenges. The
organisation has been running for more than 25 years supporting young people
and families across Norfolk and Suffolk. To find out more about them, log on to
benjaminfoundation.co.uk
CARE FOR CARERS is a wide-ranging support association providing help for carers and ex-carers, along with those who are cared for…older people…the lonely…and the vulnerable. They also hold "Carers Information Days". Their website includes information on subjects such as benefits, health trainer services, anti-bullying websites, adult education and more. Check it out here: www.careforcarers.org.uk
FIBROMYALGIA & CHRONIC PAIN. A peer support group offering support to
individuals diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and/or other comparable chronic
pain/fatigue conditions within the East Norfolk and North-East Suffolk area.
Meetings held in:
Gorleston on the second Tuesday of every month from 11:30am to 1:30pm at The
Carnegie Room within the Gorleston Library, Lowestoft Road, NR31 6SG
Lowestoft on the third Tuesday of every month from 11:00am to 1:00pm at the
Disability Advice North East Suffolk (DANES), 161 Rotterdam Road, NR32 2EZ
For their website, click here: www.gygfibro.org.uk
Private Facebook Group -
facebook.com/groups/fibrogyg
E-mail - gygfibro@gmail.com
ST.MARTIN’S HOUSING TRUST helps
homeless people, and those at risk, by offering them support, whether it’s
short-term or long- term. They have been assisting people in Norwich and
Norfolk for more than 50 years and they also work in hand with other voluntary
organisations, housing associations, community, and church groups to raise
awareness of homelessness. Find out more on their website www.stmartinshousing.org.uk
THE MATTHEW PROJECT is a
Norwich-based charity which supports young people and adults across Norfolk,
Suffolk and Essex with drug and alcohol recovery and wellbeing. If you'd like
more details their website is matthewproject.org
MENOPAUSE SUPPORT is a purpose-over-profit organisation, founded by Diane Danzebrink in 2015. After going through her own terrifying experience of entering instant menopause following surgery, Diane set out on a mission to create better, free resources for women and their families so everyone can better understand menopause and access the support and information they need. To find out more click here for their website: www.menopausesupport.co.uk
NELSON’S JOURNEY is a charity which helps children
and young people in Norfolk who suffer the loss of someone close to them. They
provide a range of bereavement support and accept referrals from families and
professionals. Since launching in 1997 they have helped thousands of youngsters
in the county to smile again. For full details check out their website www.nelsonsjourney.org.uk
The SUE LAMBERT TRUST is a Norfolk charity offering support to survivors of sexual violence and abuse. Its roots go back to a women’s group launched in the 1980s which then merged with a male support group in 2007 to become the “Sexual Violence Alliance”. Sue Lambert was a main stalwart throughout that time and when she sadly died in 2013, the charity’s name was changed to honour her memory. For full details of the charity and the support offered check out their website by clicking here: www.suelamberttrust.org
If you are ever having a bad time, and you need someone to talk to, remember, you are not alone. Here are just some of the organisations on hand to help.
NORFOLK AND WAVENEY MIND have amazing
resources and people you can reach out to. Find out more at www.norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk
NORFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL has a special section on their website with five steps to improving your mental health. Called “Take Five, to look after your own wellbeing”, it includes tips and advice, along with details of local community support hubs and more. Check it out at www.norfolk.gov.uk/what-we-do-and-how-we-work/campaigns/take-5 Other sites they suggest having a look at include "Every Mind Matters" www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters and “Improving Lives Together” www.improvinglivesnw.org.uk
THE WELLBEING
SERVICE in Norfolk and Waveney offers help and support to improve wellbeing and
manage stress, low mood, and anxiety. It holds a wide range of workshops,
courses and talking therapies along with social support, employment advice,
social events and more. To find more about it, click here for their Wellbeing
website: www.wellbeingnands.co.uk
And if you fancy getting out and about, it offers a whole series of activities from football to running to guided walks, coffee catch ups and more. In fact, there’s something going on most days! You can check those out by clicking here: https://www.wellbeingnands.co.uk/norfolk/community-development-team/social-events/
The BLACK DOG MUSIC PROJECT is charity which helps people in Norwich, who face mental health challenges, to discover a passion for music. There are sessions, workshops and one-to-one lessons and members, if they wish, can also join a band and perform at gigs and events. The charity is funded by donations and charity grants. If you’d like more details, click here for their website: https://vairmeo5.wixstudio.io/blackdogmusicproject
“SAY IT LAD" is a men's mental health support network founded by two friends - one of them a Norwich City fan. It’s a special website where people can record their
feelings, anonymously, in a voice note and listen to others. The idea is to help people express
their thoughts and take inspiration from fellow website users. Their slogan is "Your Voice Can Save his Life"
To check it out, click here: www.sayitlad.com
If you think: once you’ve seen one museum you’ve seen them all, then have a look through these and think again! (If you have others, please let us know at community@amber.radio)
NORFOLK
MUSEUMS SERVICE is a good place to start for Norfolk. It has 10 museum sites
and operates the Norwich Castle Study Centre and a collections centre at
Gressenhall.
So, if you
want to find out more about NORWICH’S Castle Museum…Museum of Norwich…and
Strangers’ Hall. GT YARMOUTH’S Time and Tide Museum…. Tolhouse Gaol…and
Elizabeth House. CROMER Museum, THETFORD Ancient House Museum, GRESSENHALL Farm
and Workhouse and LYNN Museum….
Just click
here for them all! www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk
ASSOCIATION
FOR SUFFOLK MUSEUMS is a good place to start for Suffolk! It includes LOWESTOFT’S
local history museum in Nicholas Everitt Park…. Royal Naval Patrol Service
Museum at the Sparrow’s Nest…and the East Anglia Transport Museum at Carlton
Colville. BECCLES Museum…BUNGAY Museum…. FLIXTON’S Norfolk and Suffolk Aviation
Museum…HALESWORTH’S District Museum…and more, the further south you go!
You can
check those out at www.suffolkmuseums.org .
Other museums include…
The (CITY OF NORWICH) AVIATION MUSEUM can be seen from the NDR (Broadland North Way) near the Airport...but the way to reach it is via Horsham St.Faith! It has an outdoor space housing nearly 30 aircraft and exhibits along with a varied collection of smaller displays indoors. It also holds various special events throughout the year. And it has a tearoom. Check it out by clicking here: cnam.org.uk
CAISTER
CASTLE in Caister-On-Sea was commissioned in 1432 and there’s a good view of
the ruins from the top of remaining 90-foot tower. The Castle is also home for
a purpose-built motor vehicle museum which they describe as probably the
largest of its kind in Britain. It houses more than 120 cars and 100 bikes –
ranging from 1893 to a 1990s customised Harley Davidson. There are also bicycles,
horse-drawn vehicles, pedal cars and more. For more details check out their
website by clicking here. www.caistercastle.co.uk
DAD’S ARMY
Museum in THETFORD is dedicated to the classic TV series which was filmed in
the area. It can be found in the old fire station in Cage Lane at the back of
Thetford Guildhall, which, itself doubled as the Town Hall in several episodes.
Check it out by clicking here for their website: www.dadsarmythetford.org.uk
DAD'S ARMY is also a feature at BRESSINGHAM Steam and Gardens where it’s been the official
home to the Dad’s Army Appreciation Society’s collection since 2000. The exhibition
is a re-creation of their fictional hometown of Walmington-On-Sea. Check it out – along Bressingham’s other
attractions - by clicking here: www.bressingham.co.uk (You’ll also find it in our Trains section)
DEREHAM'S BISHOP BONNER’S COTTAGE MUSEUM survived the great fire of 1679 and Zeppelin raids of 1915 to become the oldest surviving domestic building in Dereham. The timber-framed, thatched building with sloping ceilings and twisting staircases is a collection of three cottages and can found in Withburga Lane near to St Nicholas Parish Church. Find out more on the Dereham Heritage Trust website at www.derehamheritagetrust.org.uk
DEREHAM
WINDMILL is the last of several windmills in the Dereham district. It was built
in 1835, rescued from dereliction in the 1980s and has now been restored as an
exhibition centre. It's in Cherry Lane near to Neatherd High School and is set
in dog-friendly grounds connected to several rural walks around the area. It also has a coffee shop. For more details and to
check opening times log onto www.derehamwindmill.co.uk
DISS MUSEUM, in the Market Place is a community museum centred on the history of the town and district. Features include a variety of both permanent and regularly changing temporary exhibitions along with an outreach programme of town walks and talks and more. To find out more, click here for their website: www.dissmuseum.co.uk
The EAST ANGLIAN TRANSPORT MUSEUM
in Carlton Colville was founded on its present site in 1965. It’s a living
museum where you can take a trip back in time and see vehicles from years gone
by back in action. It even has its own working tram line.
For more details check out their website by clicking here: www.eatransportmuseum.co.uk
ENGLISH HERITAGE charity cares for historic buildings, monuments, and sites all around the country. Norwich's Cow Tower, which is managed by the city council, is one of the sites under its umbrella. Others around the area include the Castle and Priory at Castle Acre; Grimes Graves near Brandon; the Castle at Castle Rising; Thetford Priory; the Castle Roman forts at Burgh Castle and Caister-on-Sea and so the list continues! For details check out www.english-heritage.org.uk (See also – National Trust)
FAKENHAM GAS MUSEUM is housed in the town’s former gas works in Hempton Road which produced gas for the town from 1846 to 1965. When others were demolished, this became a museum to provide an insight into the town’s heritage and is now said to be the only surviving town gasworks in England and Wales. For full details click here for the website: www.fakenhamgasmuseum.com
LANGHAM DOME is a restored military museum and was one of the first examples of virtual technology. It was built on the edge of RAF Langham in the second world war where moving images were projected onto the inside of the dome as a training aid for anti-aircraft gunners. To find out more, including opening times, click here for their website: www.langhamdome.org
LOWESTOFT MARITIME MUSEUM in Sparrow’s
Nest Park in Whapload Road is, of course, Britain’s Most Easterly Museum! Set
in an early 19th century cottage which has been extended to cope
with the ever-growing collection, the museum highlights the fishing industry
and different aspects of the town’s maritime history.
Find out all about it by clicking here: www.lowestoftmaritimemuseum.co.uk
MUCKLEBURGH MILITARY COLLECTION
is sited on the former Royal Artillery Anti-Aircraft training camp at
Weybourne. It was opened to the public in 1988 and is one of the largest
privately owned military museums in the UK.
It has a café on site. For full details check out their website by
clicking here: www.muckleburgh.co.uk
MUSEUM OF
THE BROADS which has a collection of items from the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads can
be found at The Poor’s Staithe (NR12 9DA) just outside Stalham. It aims to
bring the stories of the Broads alive and includes a collection of nearly 6,000
items from iconic boats and bygone holidays to models of life from 1,000 years
ago. Other attractions include trips on their boats – one electric and another
their Victorian steamboat.
For full
details click here for their website: www.museumofthebroads.org.uk
NATIONAL TRUST aims to protect and promote local heritage and natural landscapes. It covers houses and buildings, gardens, countryside, and woodland and more. Locally just some of the places they are responsible for include the halls at Blickling, Felbrigg and Oxburgh; Sheringham Park, Morston Quay, Blakeney Nature Reserve, the estate at Brancaster...and so the list goes on! For full details log onto nationaltrust.org.uk (See also English Heritage)
NORFOLK AND
SUFFOLK AVIATION MUSEUM in Flixton, near Bungay was first opened to the public
in 1975…and it’s been growing ever since. It has more than 60 aircraft (including
cockpits) and more than 30,000 smaller exhibits in its collection. There are
themed buildings featuring different flying squadrons, special exhibitions,
shop, library, snack area (NAAFI) and more.
Check out full details by
clicking here for the Museum website: https://nasam-flixton.com
NORFOLK
TANK MUSEUM in Forncett St.Peter, two miles from Long Stratton, has a military
collection mainly from the 20th century. It includes tanks
and armoured cars – in working order - along with artillery, uniforms and more.
It offers a “hands on” experience and its aim is to be educational. It also has
a tearoom, a play area and picnic site and access to local country walks.
For more details check it out at: www.norfolktankmuseum.co.uk
NORWICH CASTLE – Ok, it’s mentioned above under the Norfolk Museums’ Service, but it’s worth a separate mention! The multi-million pound "Royal Palace Reborn" project recreating the time it was a Norman Palace fully opened to the public on August 7th, 2025. They have rebuilt the medieval floors and rooms and, for the first time in 900 years, visitors can explore all five levels of the Keep - from the basement to the battlements. A new shop, 60-seat restaurant, state-of-the-art new education room and more opened in 2024.
For the very latest details about the museum and the Royal Palace Reborn project, log onto the museum's website by clicking here: museums.norfolk.gov.uk/norwich-castle
To find out more click here for their website: www.radarmuseum.co.uk
RNLI HENRY BLOGG MUSEUM is in Cromer at the Rocket House on the Causeway* and is named after the most decorated lifeboatman in RNLI history who served in Cromer for 53 years and, along with his crew, saved no fewer than 873 lives. Complete with a lifeboat on display along with various historical memorabilia, the museum also offers a range of activities and more.
*The museum closed temporarily from Sept 1st 2024 for building repairs. Keep up to date with details and reopening dates by clicking here: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/museums/henry-blogg-museum And here for the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/BloggMuseum
SAINSBURY CENTRE at the UEA is an international art museum and a major national centre for the study and presentation of art. It has permanent collections along with a range of temporary exhibitions. It also has a Sculpture Park set in 350 acres of parkland. For more details check out sainsburycentre.ac.uk
SHERINGHAM
MUSEUM has a collection running over three floors from social history items to agricultural,
fishing and world war artefacts. It also has boats, an art collection, fossils,
and even bones from a prehistoric elephant! It’s a community enterprise, which organises
public events throughout the year, and – apart from the manager – it’s manned
by volunteers. Here’s their website: www.sheringhammuseum.co.uk
THURSFORD
STEAM ENGINE MUSEUM. Famed for its shows, of course, Thursford is also famed
for its steam engines and mechanical organs. From traction engines to the
mighty Wurlitzer, it’s said to be the largest collection of its kind in the
world. To find out more, click here for the Thursford website: www.thursford.com
USAF 96TH BOMB GROUP MUSEUM is based at Quidenham at the former hospital for the old
World War Two airbase at Snetterton Heath, home of the bomb group. Its aim is
to tell the stories of those who served there, and includes two memorials - one
at the entrance to Snetterton race circuit and the other in Quidenham’s
St.Andrew’s Church. To find out more,
click here for the museum’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/96thbombgroupmuseumuk
USAF 100TH BOMB GROUP: If you've seen the TV series
"Masters of the Air" you'll know it's about the American 100th bomb
group stationed at Thorpe Abbotts during the Second World War. Did you know
there's a museum there? It's in Dickleburgh in the North-East corner of the old
airfield and includes the old control tower.
Check out more details on their website by clicking here: www.100bgmus.org.uk and their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/100bgmus
WROXHAM MINIATURE WORLDS, near
the railway station, has some of the largest model railway displays in the
world, along with model boats, cars, Vintage Penny Arcade and much more. It includes
more than 5,000 model people; more than 300 model buildings; about 70 scale
miles of railway track and more than 100 trains! It also has a host of toys
from across the decades along with an onsite café and a small toy and model
shop.
For full details click here: www.wroxhamminiatureworlds.co.uk
- WYMONDHAM HERITAGE MUSEUM, has a varied collection of exhibits and displays looking at the history of the area and its people. It’s set in The Bridewell in Norwich Road, which itself – as a former prison - is also a big part of Wymondham’s history. Find out more by clicking here for their website: www.wymondhamheritagemuseum.co.uk
The FAIRYLAND TRUST is a small charity which teaches families about nature through fairy tales, folklore, arts and crafts and theatre. It was created by Chris Rose and Sarah Wise when their four-year-old daughter said she would like to go to a fairy tale world of old knobbly trees and meadows of flowers, to look for fairies. They present workshops around the area. For more details check out fairylandtrust.org
If you fancy going wild in Norfolk, the NORFOLK WILDLIFE TRUST can help you out! Visitor centres run a whole
variety of events during the year, from walks to pond dipping and from boat
trips exploring hidden area of the Broads, to workshops and exhibitions.
They're also looking for volunteers as well! For full details log on to norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk (Norfolk Wildlife Trust, (NWT), is the oldest one of its kind in
the country. It has more than 35,500 members and manages more than 40 nature
reserves along with other protected sites.)
The
NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME gives visitors access to thousands of exceptional
private gardens throughout the country – including, of course, Norfolk and
North Suffolk!
Its aim is
to raise money for nursing and health charities, through admission fees, teas,
and cake and – thanks to the generosity of garden owners, volunteers, and
visitors – has, over the years raised more than £67 million. To check out more
details and to find which gardens are open and when, click here for their
website: www.ngs.org.uk
OPEN GARDENS, UK NATIONAL DIRECTORY, was set up by a group of gardening
enthusiasts who had the problem of finding the dates of open gardens in their
area to avoid clashing with their own. It's aimed at smaller organised events and has now blossomed into a diary
of open gardens throughout the country, handy for organisers and visitors! You
can search for Norfolk, Suffolk or anywhere else in the UK by clicking
on their website here: www.opengardens.co.uk
The BISHOP OF NORWICH'S historic private four-acre garden has belonged to the clergy for more 900 years. It is run organically and includes a kitchen garden, fruit orchard, a woodland walk, extensive shrubberies with rare and unusual plants, and more. It opens to the public on various dates to raise money for local charities. Check out more by clicking here for the website: www.dioceseofnorwich.org (Search for “Bishop’s House Garden")
ST ELIZABETH HOSPICE for people with progressive
and life-limiting illnesses in East and Mid-Suffolk and Great Yarmouth and Waveney,
holds a wide-variety of fundraisers each year, including a Great Garden Trail.
It’s from February to September and is a chance to visit open gardens and historic
locations across the region while helping the Hospice at the same time. For details
click here: www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/get-involved/events/great-garden-trail
NORFOLK:
If you’re looking for somewhere to go in Norfolk
all year round, the County Council is behind a website which includes more than
300 activities and experiences. There’s everything from guided walks to new
cycle paths, and craft activities to camping in historical churches! You can
check it all out at benorfolk.co.uk
VISIT NORFOLK has a website which is well worth a
look. General events, festivals, fairs and markets, and so the list goes on.
You can discover it all at visitnorfolk.co.uk
The NORFOLK SHOWGROUND hosts a large number of
events during the year. You can get more details at www.norfolkshowground.co.uk
NORWICH
CITY OF STORIES is a good way to describe
Norwich...but how many of those stories do you know? The group, Visit Norwich
promotes a whole variety of attractions in the city and is aimed, not only at
tourists, but at locals as well! There's everything from the history to what's
happening today. Check out their website visitnorwich.co.uk
NORWICH WALKING TOURS:
The Visit Norwich website is also a good place to check out a variety of walking tours from Story walks to pub tours. Click here for more details www.visitnorwich.co.uk/walking-tours
NORWICH GHOSTS WALKS have been holding spooky walks
around the City since 1998, complete with real-life stories of gruesome
goings-on and more. Click here for their website: ghostwalksnorwich.co.uk
NORWICH STORY WALKS holds a variety of walks through Norwich's hidden history. Click here: www.norwichstorywalks.co.uk
And TERRIBLE TOURS” - which began in Cambridge - is now in Norwich as well with "Nasty Norwich " and "Nightmare Norwich" tours! Click here: www.terribletours.co.uk
Meanwhile....the SHOEBOX COMMUNITY HUB in Castle Meadow, organises a variety of local history walks – including tours of a hidden street between the Market and the Norman Keep which is directly under their office! The money raised from the tours helps towards their community work. Check out their tours and more by clicking onto their website here: www.theshoebox.org.uk
If you're looking for a festival to go to,
the EAST ANGLIAN FESTIVAL NETWORK has a large list each year from music, food and drink festivals to steam galas,
carnivals, fun days and more. It covers Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. Their website is eafn.co.uk
HARLESTON: If you want to know about what’s going on in
Harleston, the Harleston Information Plus Charity has a host of details along
with a calendar of events. It was first launched in 2003 with the aim of
supporting local shops and businesses and promoting the town, its events, and
attractions. It has more than 40 volunteers, with three part-time staff
members. Check out more details – together with that calendar of events
at Check out more details – together with that calendar of events at www.harleston-norfolk.org.uk
GT YARMOUTH: Are you looking for things to do around the GREAT
YARMOUTH area? The Visit Great Yarmouth website has a wide variety of
information covering Yarmouth and Gorleston and surrounding villages, along
with the Broads and the Countryside and more. Check it out at visitgreatyarmouth.co.uk
MEDIEVAL GRAFFITI! There's more to graffiti than
you might think - including the fact it's been around for centuries! You can
still see medieval graffiti, if you know where to look, and Norfolk has its own
award-winning survey on the subject. Check it out at medieval-graffiti.co.uk
NORTH NORFOLK is full of attractions, but where do
you start? The Visit North Norfolk website is a good place. It covers things to
do, things to see, places to explore, the beaches, the history and much more.
The website is visitnorthnorfolk.com
The ENGLISH HERITAGE charity cares
for historic buildings, monuments, and sites all around the country. Norwich's
Cow Tower, which is managed by the city council, is one of the sites under its
umbrella. Others around the area include the Castle and Priory at Castle Acre;
Grimes Graves near Brandon; the Castle at Castle Rising; Thetford Priory; the
Castle Roman forts at Burgh Castle and Caister-on-Sea and so the list
continues! For details check out www.english-heritage.org.uk (See also –
National Trust)
The NATIONAL TRUST charity aims to
protect and promote local heritage and natural landscapes. It covers houses and
buildings, gardens, countryside, and woodland and more. Locally just some of
the places they are responsible for include the halls at Blickling, Felbrigg
and Oxburgh; Sheringham Park, Morston Quay, Blakeney Nature Reserve, the estate
at Brancaster...and so the list goes on! For full details log onto nationaltrust.org.uk (See also
English Heritage)
The NORWICH SOCIETY is an
independent community-based charity, supporting the preservation, development
and improvement of features of historic interest in the City. It encourages the
exploration and enjoyment of Norwich’s history through a range of talks, walks
and other events, as well as regular publications. For more details check out
their website thenorwichsociety.org.uk
The WHERRY YACHT CHARTER is a charity which has restored and now operates a fleet of five historic Norfolk wherries, all built between 1905 and 1927. They organise regular trips and you can also hire one for private parties. Their aim is to preserve the Norfolk Wherry as an important part of local history. To find out more, check out their website by clicking here: www.wherryyachtcharter.org
In their prime – when they were carrying cargo – there were up to 350 Norfolk wherries on the Broads. Now there are just eight .
SCAM ALERT! To find warnings of
some of the latest scams in Norfolk - and for advice on who to contact if you
think there's a scam - check out Norfolk Trading Standards.
For business scam alerts go to www.norfolk.gov.uk/business/trading-standards/scams/business-alerts
For consumer scam alerts log onto www.norfolk.gov.uk/business/trading-standards/scams/consumer-alerts
To report possible scams, the
Citizen's Advice Bureau has a special freephone helpline 0808 223 1133. Action
Fraud, the UK national fraud office, can be called on 0300 123 2040. Citizen's
Advice also has a special section on their website with advice on organisations
to call, including the police immediately on 101 if the scammer is in your area
or if you've transferred money to the scammer in the last 24 hours. (If you
feel threatened or unsafe, call 999.) Check out citizensadvice.org.uk
Norfolk County Council compiles a list of school closures, along with libraries, museums, Norfolk Record Office and recycling centres. Check out disruptions.norfolk.gov.uk
Some schools may vary, but generally to find term dates for schools in Norfolk log onto www.norfolk.gov.uk/education-and-learning/schools/term-dates-and-school-holidays
Suffolk Schools term and holiday dates www.suffolk.gov.uk/children-families-and-learning/schools/school-term-and-holiday-dates
ACTIVE NORFOLK works with different groups across the county to promote the benefits of staying active, whether it's at home or outdoors. If you fancy having a go at something, but don't know what, they even have a special "Activity finder". For full details, click here to log onto their website: activenorfolk.org
BOWLS:
Thorpe Recreation Bowling Club is an outdoor bowls club which operates in the summer months. It takes part in various leagues, along with internal competitions, and often hosts County games and touring teams. The club – which is based at the Recreation ground in Laundry Lane – has social members as well as playing members and holds social evenings throughout the year. They welcome new members and if you’d like more details phone 01603 435411
KFA, KEEP FIT ASSOCIATION: The Association runs fitness classes through exercise, movement and dance. It has nine regional groups – including the Eastern Counties - with each region organising its own programme of get-togethers and social and leisure events There are also opportunities to take part in team demonstrations and class displays along with national association events. For more details click here: www.keepfit.org.uk
Click here for the Norfolk branch Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063605675265#
KORFBALL: In case you think it's a
new game, Korfball was invented in the Netherlands in the early 1900s....and
has been played in Norfolk since 1991. It has similarities to basketball and
netball but is a game in its own right, and described as a fun, fast mixed
gender team sport with eight players in a team. Norfolk has a league of three
divisions with five major clubs, Norwich City...Norwich Knights...Norwich
ICE... Dragons...and UEA. Useful websites to find out more include www.nckc.co.uk and
the Norfolk Korfball Association at www.norfolkkorfball.co.uk
ORIENTEERING: The Norfolk Orienteering Club has about 200 members and they organise events throughout the county. If you’ve never tried the sport or just want to get out into the countryside for a run or walk with a bit of a navigational challenge, they welcome you to go along and give it a go. They have routes for varying ages and abilities and newcomers and families are very welcome. They also have help for beginners. If you’d like more details, check out their website www.norfolkoc.co.uk
PETANQUE: The Norwich Pétanque Club meets on Wednesday evenings at The Cottage in Thunder Lane, Thorpe. They have more than 70 members, new players are always welcome and if you've never played it, they let you give it a go! For more details check out their website www.norwich-petanque.co.uk
PICKLE BALL: How do you fancy having a go at "Pickle Ball"? It's played on a
quarter-sized tennis court with a lower net and has been described as a cross
between tennis, badminton, and ping pong. We have local groups from Lowestoft and
Gorleston to Cromer…Dereham to Norwich…Hingham, Carlton Rode…Lyng and so the
list goes on! Check it out by clicking here: www.pickleballengland.org
RUNNING: Norfolk has more than 20
running clubs - so, whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete beginner -
there's a good selection if you'd like to join one! The Run Norwich group has
the details. Check out runnorwich.co.uk (Click on "Community" and then "Join a
Running Club")
TRIATHLON: If you want to take up a sport but not sure which one, then how about mixing them up? The British Triathlon Group is the national governing body not only for triathlon where you do three sports in one – typically swimming, cycling and long-distance running - but also variations where you just do two! Local clubs include ones based in Norwich, Gt Yarmouth, Beccles, Dereham, Holt and King’s Lynn and you can find their details along with a host of other triathlon information by clicking here for the
British Triathlon website: www.britishtriathlon.org
WALKING: If you enjoy a walk with other people, there are a whole series of walking clubs around the city and county and the group "Walking in England" has a contact list for more than 30 of them! You can also download free walks. Check it out at walkinginengland.co.uk Also check out the Active Norfolk website. They hold regular health walks. activenorfolk.org
WALKING AND CYCLING: The Norfolk
Trails network has more than 1200 miles of walks, cycle and bridle routes
across the County with everything from short and circular walks to long
distance. (You can even walk the Boudicca Way from Norwich to Diss...) Check out norfolk.gov.uk and search
Norfolk Trails.
WALKING FOOTBALL: If you fancy playing football at a leisurely pace, walking football could be the way forward with various male and female teams in the area. A good way of finding out more about that and other ways to play football locally is via the Norfolk FA website, norfolkfa.com (Click on "Players" and then "Ways to Play")
WALKING FOOTBALL - CROMER. The Cromer Strollers Walking football club welcome new members. If you’re over 50 and you fancy giving it a try, they meet at 9am on a Tuesday at Cromer Tennis Club. Everyone’s welcome from complete novices to experts. For more details click here for their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/groups/571133854817286
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The Norwich Players, based at the Maddermarket, are always on the lookout for new talent. They put on several shows each year with anything from Shakespeare to new productions. Rehearsals are held in the city…usually over a seven-to-eight-week period and mainly on weekday evenings. There’s no membership to join or subscription to pay. If you’d like to audition or to find out more details check out the Maddermarket
website maddermarket.co.uk (Each year, about 100 different actors appear in productions and
about 40 per cent make their Maddermarket debut!)
BARTON HOUSE is a miniature ride-on railway set in a spacious garden alongside the River Bure in Wroxham and in 2023 celebrated its 60th anniversary. It has two trains, a full-size signalling system and authentic tickets along with a rail museum and refreshments. One way to reach it is by electric boat from near Wroxham Bridge. For more details click here for their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/BHRailway/?locale=en_GB
The BURE VALLEY RAILWAY is a
narrow-gauge steam trip between Aylsham and Wroxham. It takes about 45 minutes
one way and is a return journey of 18 miles. Check out their website bvrw.co.uk
BRESSINGHAM STEAM AND GARDENS opened
in 1961 and became a charity in the early 70s. It has more than three miles of
railway, along with a museum collection...a 19th century Gallopers
carousel...more than 17 acres of gardens...and more. It's also the official
home of a Dad's Army exhibition belonging to the Appreciation Society. For full
details the website is bressingham.co.uk
EATON PARK miniature railway in Norwich is run by the Norwich and District Society of Model Engineers and has been a feature of the park since the 1950s. It has grown over the years and has helped the society raise thousands of pounds for local charities. They currently have about 100 members, but are always keen to attract other enthusiasts. To find out more about the Society and the railway, check out their website at www.ndsme.org
The MID-NORFOLK RAILWAY has its headquarters in
Dereham at a Victorian station which has been restored to the way it would have
looked in the 1950s. It has several stations under its wing, from the 1930s,
County Station at North Elmham to Wymondham Abbey. The train line does not yet
run to them all, but it is expanding all the time. Check it out at www.midnorfolkrailway.co.uk
The MID-SUFFOLK LIGHT RAILWAY is described as Suffolks’ only standard gauge heritage railway. It’s based at Brockford Station at Wetheringsett (IP14 5PW) and includes a museum, a shop and steam trip open days. Find out more by clicking here: www.mslr.org.uk
The NORTH NORFOLK RAILWAY - also
known as the Poppy Line - runs between Sheringham and Holt...taking in coastal
scenery along the way. The route first took passengers back in 1844. The
current railway has been growing since the mid-1970s... For full details nnrailway.co.uk
The WHITWELL AND REEPHAM RAILWAY first opened in 1882 as part of the Midland and Great Northern branch line from Melton Constable. It closed to passengers in 1959 and was reopened 50 years later as a heritage station. Nowadays it can boast regular train trips along with a collection of diesel and steam engines, trucks, and carriages and more together with gardens and a café. For full details check out their website by clicking here: www.whitwellstation.com
The WELLS AND WALSINGHAM LIGHT RAILWAY is a narrow-gauge steam railway launched in 1982 as the longest of its kind in the world. It follows the course of the old Great Eastern Line and runs for four miles between Wells and Walsingham. It also has a signal box café at the Wells Station. Check out details by clicking here for their website: www.wwlr.co.uk
The WENSUM VALLEY MINIATURE RAILWAY runs from the Mid Norfolk Railway’s County School Station near North Elmham. It relocated from Holt in 2019 and is operated and built by the North Norfolk Model Engineering Club. For more details check out their Facebook page by clicking here: www.facebook.com/groups/840854480718895/ You can also find details on the Engineering Club Facebook page: www.facebook.com/northnorfolkmodelengineeringclub/
Norfolk County Council has a
website to help people get around the county more easily with all travel
information and a journey planner in one place. Check out Travel Norfolk at www.travelnorfolk.co.uk
If you’re looking to be a
volunteer, but not sure what for… the COMMUNITIES TEAM at VOLUNTARY NORFOLK run
a special website for local charities to advertise vacancies. You'll find it at getinvolvednorfolk.org.uk
Voluntary Norfolk not only supports
volunteers and voluntary organisations throughout the county, but it teams up
with other groups to help in many other ways as well – from employment support
if you’re out of work to emotional and practical support if you’re an unpaid
carer…lonely…isolated, and more. And that’s just a tip of the iceberg! Find out
more via their website, voluntarynorfolk.org.uk
The charity CORAM VOICE looks for volunteers to befriend and
support children in care across Norfolk. It works in partnership with Norfolk
County Council to provide an 'Independent Visitor' service where volunteers
meet with a young person, at least once a month. It’s usually for a couple of
hours at a time for activities and outings to help them build their confidence
and self-esteem. Volunteers are also there to listen to any issues or concerns
the young person wants to discuss.
Independent Visiting is a long-term, one to one commitment. Volunteers must be over 18 and will be subject to enhanced police checks. Full training and ongoing support will be given, and out of pocket expenses will be paid for mileage and activities. For more information email norfolk@coramvoice.org.uk or visit www.coramvoice.org.uk and select current vacancies.
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