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 a bowls fan, all roads are leading to
Hopton again for the annual World Indoor Bowls Championships. It’s at Potters
Resorts from Friday Jan 9th to Sunday Jan 25th and
includes competitors from all around the globe. It’s the 28th time
that Potters has hosted the contest which includes everything from singles to
mixed pairs.
For more details, click here: www.pottersresorts.com/world-bowls/schedule
The Gorleston Theatre Company are presenting “Rumpus
in the Rhubarb” at the town’s Pavilion Theatre. It’s from Thursday to Saturday
(Jan 22-24) and is a two-act comedy play of rebelling allotment holders rising
up against plans to redevelop their site.
For more details, click here for the Pavilion Theatre
what’s on page: www.gorlestonpavilion.co.uk/whats-on
For the Theatre Company’s own website, click here: www.gorlestontheatrecompany.co.uk
Harleston Cinema is presenting “The Ballard of
Wallis Island” on Thursday Jan 22nd. It’s showing at the Masonic
Rooms in Redenhall Road at 2pm and 7.30pm.
It stars Carey Mulligan, Tom Basden and Tim Key and
tells the story of Charles, an eccentric lottery winner who lives alone
on a remote island, who dreams of getting his favourite musical duo back
together.
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 if 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 12A, under 16s must be accompanied
by an adult.
Follow them on Facebook & Instagram
Good luck to everyone hot-footing it over to “Roarr!” Dinosaur Park in Lenwade on Thursday evening, Jan 22nd, to take part in the St.Martin’s charity firewalk. They’re walking over hot coals to help raise money for the homeless in Norwich.
Then on Friday night, Jan 30th, the charity is holding a sponsored Sleep Out at Norwich Cathedral Cloisters. It’s until 6.30 on Saturday morning and the charity stresses it’s not intended to replicate being homeless, but to raise awareness of the challenges facing people sleeping rough, along with the chance to raise money through sponsorship.
If you’d like more details, or to offer support,
click here for both events: www.stmartinshousing.org.uk/help-us/events
Harleston Players are presenting a comedy and
slapstick version of “The Hound of the Baskervilles” at Harleston Sancroft
Academy with Sherlock Homes and Dr Watson investigating the death of Sir Charles
Baskerville, with a look of terror still etched on his face and the paw prints
of a gigantic hound nearby. There are evening shows on Friday and Saturday, Jan
23rd 24th, 30th and 31st along with a final day afternoon
matinee.
For full details, click here for the Harleston
Players website: www.harlestonplayers.co.uk
If you’d like to find out more about local theatre
groups in general – or even further afield, check out the “Amateur Dramatics”
section of our “Amber Directory” below
The Big C cancer charity is holding its annual Big Cuppa event
from Monday Jan 26th to Friday Feb 13th. People are encouraged
to organise get togethers with a cuppa and a slice of cake to help raise funds.
The event is held each year to coincide with World Cancer Day which this year is on Feb 4th.
For more details of the event, click here: www.big-c.co.uk/our-events/big-cs-big-cuppa
For more details of World Cancer Day, click here
for the official website: www.worldcancerday.org
Walsingham Abbey - with its 18 acres of grounds and woodland - reopens for the snowdrop season from Monday Jan 26th to Sunday March 1st. It’s from 10am to 4pm each day. The Shirehall museum will also be open. This year’s charity snowdrop day is on Feb 14th – Valentine’s Day – raising money for the “Tapping House” hospice service.
For more details click here for Walsingham Abbey website page: www.walsinghamabbey.com/snowdrops/
Click here for the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/WalsinghamAbbey/?locale=en_GB
Click here to find out more about Tapping House: www.tappinghouse.org.uk
The Norwich-based Crude Apache Theatre Company are presenting
a family panto version of “Babes in The Wood”. It’s at the City’s Maddermarket Theatre
from Wednesday to Saturday, Jan 28th to 31st with shows at
7.30 each evening along with a Saturday 2.30 matinee. The show includes music
from the Punch House Band.
For more details click here for the Maddermarket: www.maddermarket.co.uk And here for the Theatre Company: www.crudeapache.wordpress.com
St Martin’s homeless charity in Norwich is holding
a sponsored “Sleep Out” at Norwich Cathedral on Friday night, Jan 30th.
Volunteers will be turning up with their
sleeping bags to spend the night in the cloisters. They’ll be there until 6.30 on
the Saturday morning. The organisers stress it’s not intended to replicate being
homeless, but to raise awareness of the challenges facing people sleeping rough.
If you’d like more details or to offer support, click here: www.stmartinshousing.org.uk/help-us/events
Norfolk libraries are holding their annual
DigiFest throughout February. Children and youngsters up to the age of 16 can
try their hand at stop-motion animation, basic coding skills with different
robots, find out more about AI, and more. All told, there are more than 130 events
across the county’s libraries with many of them during half-term. All are free but
most require pre-booking. Find out more by clicking here: www.norfolk.gov.uk/digifest
There’s a special dip in the sea in Cromer on
Sunday Feb 1st to raise funds for local mental health services. It’s
called the “Cromer Sea Splash"…. it’s organised by the local charity, Norfolk
and Waveney MIND…and all those taking part will be splashing into the sea at
11am!
If you’d like join in, offer support, or to find out more details, click here: www.norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk/get-involved/upcoming-events/sea-splash
Good luck and on your marks for the Peddar’s Way Ultra. It’s a 48-mile trail run on Sunday Feb 1st starting from Knettishall Heath near Thetford at 8.30 in the morning and finishing at Holme-next-the-Sea in North Norfolk – with a cut-off time of 12 hours later! It follows the ancient Roman trading route with a mix of straight tracks, bridleways, footpaths and country roads. For more details click here: www.challenge-running.com/e/peddars-way-ultra-11027
Among the Snowdrop events at this time of year,
Thorpe Market Church is holding its annual Snowdrop Sundays throughout
February. It’s from Noon to 4pm each week and also includes different art exhibitions
each Sunday, along with live music, refreshments and more.
For more details check out the local Christian community website by clicking here: www.networknorwich.co.uk/Articles/731605/Network_Norwich_and_Norfolk/Regional_News/North_Norfolk/Enjoy_the_snowdrops_at_Thorpe_Market_Church.aspx
For gardens in general don’t forget to check out the “Open Gardens” section in our Amber Directory below
Organisers of the summer Bungay Beer and Music
Festival are holding a brand-new winter version at Bungay Community Centre. It’s
on Friday Feb 6th from 5pm and Saturday Feb 7th from
Midday and includes local and national breweries, food and live music.
The event is also supporting the East Anglian
Air Ambulance charity.
For more details check out the Bungay Beer and
Music Festival Facebook page by clicking here: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083241103422
East Ruston Old Vicarage is holding a special Snowdrop
Day on Sunday Feb 8th. It’s from 10am to 2pm and includes about 150 varieties
of snowdrops displayed throughout the gardens.
For more details click here: www.eastrustonoldvicarage.co.uk/events
Also check out our “Open Gardens” section in
our Amber Directory below
The gardens at Lexham Hall near Litcham are
open on Sunday Feb 8th and Sunday Feb 15th as part of the
National Garden Scheme. It’s a Parkland with lake and river walks, a formal garden
and traditional working kitchen garden and more, including, at this time of
year, snowdrops. They will also be donating to East Lexham Church.
For more details of this and other National
Garden Scheme gardens, click here: www.ngs.org.uk
Also
check out our “Open Gardens” section in our Amber Directory below
The Cromer and Sheringham Operatic and Dramatic
Society are performing the Alan Ayckbourn comedy “Absurd Person Singular”. at
Sheringham Little Theatre. It’s from Wednesday to Saturday, Feb 11th
to Feb 14th with shows each evening and a matinee on Saturday. The
play is an award-winning 1972 comedy which follows the fortunes of three
married couples over three years as they meet up each Christmas Eve.
To find out more click here for the Sheringham Little Theatre website: www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com and here for the Society’s website: www.csods.uk
If you’d like to find out more about local theatre
groups in general – or even those further afield, check out the “Amateur
Dramatics” section of our Amber Directory below.
The Norwich Science Festival returns for
half-term. It’s at the Forum in the City from Saturday Feb 14th to
Saturday Feb 21st.
There are more than 200 events this year from
workshops to performances, experiments, a planetarium, a microbe zoo, a Great
Science Time Tour, and more…including an afternoon tea with a science twist and
an ugly animal roadshow presented by the Ugly Animal Preservation Society!
For full details click here: www.norwichsciencefestival.co.uk
After being premiered at the Natural History
Museum, “The Great Big Bug Show” is heading for Norwich during half-term week. It’s
at Norwich Theatre Stage Two on Tuesday February 17th and is an interactive
exploration of the world beneath our feet, including poems, raps and songs
all about bugs! There are shows at Noon and 2pm.
For full details click here for the Theatre website
page: www.norwichtheatre.org/whats-on/the-great-big-bug-show
Cromer’s annual “Folk on the Pier” weekend is
back for its 26th year this year. It’s from Friday May 8th
to Sunday May 10th and sees acts from across the folk world appearing
at the Pier’s Pavilion Theatre in afternoon and evening shows.
There’s also a Fringe Festival around the town
as well.
For full and latest details click here: www.folkonthepier.co.uk
The Norfolk-based charity “Jesse’s Anchor”
supports families affected by childhood cancer, and in May they’re holding a celebrity
football match with a hand-picked celebrity team taking on a team from Hollyoaks.
It’s at King’s Lynn Town Football on Sunday May 17th with kick off at 3pm and it’s raising funds and
awareness for the charity and also for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.
For more details about the charity, click here for
their website: www.jessesanchor.org
You ca also find more details about the match by
clicking here for their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/jessesanchor And here for tickets: https://buytickets.at/jessesanchor/1944131
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.
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
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’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.
Nowadays it also has a charity shop in Gt Yarmouth 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
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
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
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
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
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 (reopens Spring 2026 after renovation works. Check their website for latest information)"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.
Check out thehallsnorwich.com
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
*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.)
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. 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: www.aviationmuseum.net
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
ST JOHN
AMBULANCE can be seen at a wide variety of locations throughout the year and
fundraising is vital. And, as part of that, thanks to the generosity of owners,
it has its own OPEN GARDENS programme. To find out more about the programme and
which gardens are open and when, click here: www.stjohnopengardensgmail.weebly.com
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")
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
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 opening times and more information, check out their website bhrw.org.uk
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/
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!)
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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