Rhododendrons Update 🌸 + Food, Music & Art Across Norfolk


Hello Norfolk explorers 👋

I hope you’ve been enjoying the mostly lovely weather lately.

We spent part of the weekend out exploring with our friends from Brancaster Stays, who showed us around Barrow Common. There are so many different paths to wander, lots of wildlife, and some fantastic views, so it’s definitely worth checking out if you get the chance. I will share more about this hidden gem soon, but in the meantime, check out this short video.

We also made a trip to Sheringham Park to see the rhododendrons. They’re looking beautiful already, although probably not quite at peak bloom yet. We shared a short video here if you’d like a little preview, but I’d definitely recommend planning a visit soon.

It’s another busy week across Norfolk, with festivals, live music, local food and plenty more happening.

Here’s what else is going on across Norfolk this week ⬇️


✨ What's Happening Around Norfolk This Week?

Cromer Crab & Lobster Festival (15 - 17 May)

This festival celebrates the sea-faring heritage of Cromer. It begins with the Grand Opening Variety Concert at the Pier Pavilion Theatre and also includes demonstrations, a street market, a cookery theatre, live music, street performers, crafts and activities for the kids. There’s also an art trail and a seafood trail featuring many local restaurants, cafés and pubs.

Get more information here.

Stalham Fringe Festival (17 May)

Experience the talent of Stalham and beyond at the Stalham Fringe Festival, a free event featuring an array of performers and vendors. Enjoy performances across three venues and the lively atmosphere of the High Street. With more than 30 stalls offering everything from delicious hot and cold food to plants, crafts, books, and more, there's something for everyone.

Get more information here.

Asparagus Festival (17 May)

The Tacon's Farm Shop is hosting their annual Asparagus Festival. Enjoy fresh asparagus, cooking demonstrations, local food stands, live music, and refreshing beverages. Entry is free.

Get more information here.

Bressingham 1940's Day (17 May)

Get ready for a 1940's themed event with the Dad's Army Appreciation Society. It's a must for lovers of that time period and also a great way for young people to learn more about it by immersing themselves in the memorabilia, vehicles, fashions, music and more of the day. The museum will be open during the event too.

You can buy tickets and get more information here.

Norfolk and Norwich Festival (8 - 24 May)

The Norfolk and Norwich Festival is the biggest event of the year in Norfolk. It's the flagship arts festival for the East of England, and includes an exciting programme of music, theatre, literature, visual arts, circus, dance and free outdoor events.

Find out more about this year's festival here.

Norwich Jazz Festival (15 - 24 May)

Norwich Jazz Festival brings ten days of live music across the city each May, celebrating the best in UK and international jazz. Past headliners have included Mammal Hands, Azymuth, and the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, with performances spread across a range of city venues.

Get more information here.

Lynn Chadwick at Houghton Hall (2 May - 4 October)

Houghton Hall will host a major sculpture exhibition by celebrated British artist Lynn Chadwick CBE. Featuring 30 works from the 1950s to the 1990s, the exhibition includes some of his best-known sculptures as well as rarely seen pieces, displayed across the house and grounds. It will be the UK’s largest exhibition of Chadwick’s work in more than 20 years.

Get more information here.

🗓 Explore More Events

There’s plenty more coming up:

👉 May Events | June Events

Need a Recommendation? 💬

Not sure what to do this weekend? Just hit reply and tell us what you’re looking for. Whether it’s a family day out, something different, or a quiet wander somewhere scenic, we’re always happy to help. 🧡

Until next time, happy adventuring!

Anisa and Russell

PS. If you’re already thinking ahead to half term, the North Norfolk Railway is running a special family discount offer. You can find all the details here.


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Norfolk Local Guide

We’re Anisa and Russell, the husband-and-wife team behind Norfolk Local Guide. Each week, we share what’s happening in Norwich and across Norfolk—from hidden gems and foodie finds to family fun and seasonal events. Join our community and make the most of every week in this beautiful corner of the England!

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