Hot tickets for spring
22nd March 2026
NWT Cley Marshes © Phil Barnes Photography
From walks and talks to exhibitions, supper clubs, markets and more, we fill in your spring diary, so you don’t have to…
NOW UNTIL 30 MAY 2026: MAY THE TOYS BE WITH YOU
Lynn Museum has gone galactic with this showcase of one of the UK’s finest collections of vintage Star Wars toys and original cinema posters, from 1977 to 1985, owned by Matt Fox. The exhibition includes life-size storm troopers, so be on your best behaviour!
Until the end of the year: A Regency Romance
The ton is abuzz! The portraits of a honeymooning couple have been restored and reunited at Oxburgh Estate, home of the Bedingfeld family for 500 years. After their marriage, Thomas Molyneux-Seel and Agnes Bedingfeld spent more than a year honeymooning in Europe in 1823-24, commissioning several artworks, including a pair of portraits of themselves by neo-classical artist Ferdinando Cavalleri. Bequeathed to the National Trust in 1970s, Thomas’ portrait has hung in Oxburgh’s library but Agnes’, unframed and in poor condition, was hidden from view in the attic. Now both are restored, with Agnes’ boasting a brand-new frame made using centuries-old techniques now listed on the Heritage Crafts Red List of Endangered Crafts. This exhibition explores the language of love during the era and the couple’s relationship through extracts from letters, diaries and a collection of objects.
Mondays to Thursdays: Discover Titchwell Marsh
RSPB Titchwell is currently hosting guided walks on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10am, offering an introduction to the reserve’s diverse landscapes and best wildlife watching sites; get close up views of birds along the West Bank path and depending on seasonal variations, either the east reedbeds or the beach. The event lasts for around two hours, and you’ll walk for around three miles (there are plenty of stops). It’s ideal for novice birders and new visitors to the reserve.
https://events.rspb.org.uk/titchwellmarsh
First Tuesday of the month: Walking Women
Established more than10 years ago, these gentle monthly walks explore the many landscapes of Holkham. Take in Holkham Beach on 3 March (meet at the Lookout) and Wells Beach on 7 April (meet outside the Beach Café). From 10am, duration 90 minutes.
Every Monday: Blickling Bounders
This weekly, organised dog walk takes place on the Blickling Estate. Meet at the Old School at the top of the main car park on Mondays at 10am.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling
Mondays: Nelson’s Shantymen
Join in and sing-along with this renowned local shanty group – which raises money for charitable causes – as they rehearse at The Jolly Sailors in Brancaster Staithe, most Mondays from 7pm to 9pm. Alongside traditional sea shanties, their repertoire includes a number of songs celebrating the achievements of Lord Nelson.
www.jollysailorsbrancaster.co.uk
Every Friday: Social Walks at Blickling Estate
A new weekly event offering a great opportunity to meet new people. Head to the Estate Barn visitor centre in the main car park for 9.50am where you’ll find a walk leader waiting to take you on a three-walk around the parkland. Enjoy views of the lake and pass landmarks such as the Mausoleum, before heading to the Muddy Boots Café where you can purchase refreshments.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blickling
MONTHLY: THEATRE SUNDAYS AT THORNHAM VILLAGE HALL
Enjoy a National Theatre Live Screening at Thornham Village Hall, paired with a two course pre- or post-performance meal at The Orange Tree, just down the road. This monthly event will take place in spring, autumn and winter, with screenings from 4pm. The programme includes The Audience with Helen Mirren as Queen Elizabeth II on 29 March. Theatre and the meal costs £35, the theatre screening only is £10.
Until 27 March: Ken Matsuzaki exhibition at Fire and Flux in Norwich
Fire and Flux ceramics gallery has teamed up with Goldmark Gallery from Rutland to bring works by Japanese potter Ken Matsuzaki to Norwich. More than 60 pots will be showcased by this renowned artist, who has embraced Japan’s rich ceramic history and its different pottery schools; from emerald green Oribe work to his Yohen pots which are veiled in layers of natural ash that have built up over 10-day firings in his climbing kiln. A selection of vases in the potter’s innovative Tokaiseki style will also be on show – this technique was invented by Matsuzaki and developed over many years, creating sculptural works which are not thrown but hewn, carved and torn from hollowed blocks of clay on a potter’s wheel using a variety of tools.
Until 28 March: Viewing Room 07
Contemporary and Country hosts small-scale solo and two-person exhibitions featuring new work by emerging and established East Anglian creatives, at Woolmarket House in King’s Lynn. March’s will combine work by landscape painter Melanie Goemans and ceramicist Cecilia Willis; April’s Viewing Room will juxtapose paintings by Mary Blue with ceramics by Caroline Chouler-Tissier. Open select days and by appointment.
www.contemporaryandcountry.com
26 March, 23 April: Circuit of Cley
This is one of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s regular walks at Cley Marshes which also include a mindfulness walk and a walk with the warden. This is a guided circular route around the reserve and along the shingle ridge, taking in the wildlife and habitats along the way. Walk length approx. 3.5 miles include 1 mile on shingle.
www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
28 March: Simon & Garfunkel Story
Using huge projection photos and original film footage, this international hit show features a full live band performing all the hits from Mrs Robinson and Cecilia, to Homeward Bound and Bridge Over Troubled Water. Cromer Pier’s Pavilion Theatre, 7.30pm.
28 March, 25 April, 23 May, 27 June, 25 July, 22 August, 19 September: The Burnhams Market
The Burnhams Market at St Mary’s Westgate Church in Burnham Market returns for the season on 28 March. The monthly Saturday market is a perfect reason to shop local, with artisan makers and indie producers offering a range of curated products.
28 March, 25 April, 30 May, 27 June, 25 July, 29 August, 26 September, 31 October, 21 November: Hunstanton Craft Fairs
This monthly event sees Hunstanton Town Hall packed with stalls from makers, all passionate about handmade crafts; from candles, wax melts, decoupage, soaps, stone jewellery and textiles, to stained glass, crochet, pottery and photography. Teas, coffees and backed goods will be available too. 10am to 4pm free entry. Dogs welcome. Find them on Facebook.
28 March to 28 February 2027: Norfolk Contemporary Art Society at Norwich Castle
Since its foundation in 1956, Norfolk Contemporary Art Society has supported Norwich Castle to collect and display the work of contemporary artists. To celebrate their 70th anniversary, this exhibition highlights a fascinating selection of artworks purchased with the support of NCAS members over the past seven decades.
www.norwichcastle.norfolk.gov.uk
29 March: Paws on the Pier
As part of its 125th anniversary celebrations, Cromer Pier is again hosting ‘Paws on the Pier’ bringing together dog lovers from across the region for a fun-filled day celebrating our four-legged friends. Browse trade stalls, take part in dog shows, watch demonstrations, and enjoy plenty of treats and goodies (for humans, too!). From 10am.
4 April: Creake Abbey Farmers’ Market
This fantastic market takes place on the first Saturday of the month from 9.30am to 1pm (except January). Expect a wide range of stalls from more than 65 local producers and makers, with wares from wine, cakes and bakes, coffee and cheeses, to meats, fruit and veg, chutneys and more. Creake Abbey, near Burnham Market, is also home to a range of lifestyle shops, a café, hair salon and a reformer Pilates studio (check the website for individual opening hours) as well as the Augustinian abbey ruins.
5 April: Active Fakenham Festival of Running
Start your Easter Sunday with a little exercise by signing up for Active Fakenham Festival of Running. Roads in the town centre will be closed for the chip-timed 5km race, 1km Fun Run, and a Toddle ‘n’ Trike for under-fives. There’ll be a barbecue, free face painting and complimentary pre- and post-race massage.
www.activefakenham.org.uk
5 April, 3 May, 7 June, 5 July, 2 August, 6 September, 4 October, 1 November, 15 November, 6 December: Holt Sunday Market
On the first Sunday of each month, from April to December, the centre of Holt is lined with stalls for the popular Sunday Market. It’s a jolly affair, with around 80 local independent craftspeople and food producers showcasing the best of Norfolk.
5 and 19 April: Charity Pub Quiz
The Kings Head in Letheringsett will be supporting charities Nelson’s Journey and Alzheimer’s Research UK at their 2026 Sunday quizzes, held on select dates. Bring a team or join with others and put your general and local knowledge to the test, from 7pm in the bar.
8 April: White Horse Holme Supper Club
Head to the cosy Bakery Barn for 7pm at the White Horse in Holme-next-the-Sea for their regular supper club, where head chef Gabe Lea will present a five-course menu (£65) showcasing local ingredients, and there’s an optional Burn Valley Vineyard wine flight (£28). Booking is essential – email info@whitehorseholme.co.uk
9 April: Cley Book Group
This book group meets at NWT Cley and Salthouse Marshes roughly every six weeks to discuss a range of fiction and non-fiction books with the themes of nature and the environment. The book for discussion in the March session is Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton and Cuckoo by Nick Davies in April. Book copies available from the shop. Hosted by the volunteer team, enjoy thought-provoking discussions, warm company and Tea or coffee plus cake. 2pm to 4pm.
www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
11 April, 9 May, 13 June: Fakenham Food Market
Shop Fakenham has launched a new monthly food market in the town. Fakenham Food Market is to be held in the town’s Market Place on the second Saturday of the month (March to December). The first one, held just as the magazine went to press on 14 March, was set to include stall holders such as hog roast favourite Fire and Fork, Willie Weston’s Seafoods and Essence Foods who produce conserves, mustards and preserves. The markets start at 9.30am and will run until 1.30pm and aim to become a popular addition to the town’s foodie offering.
11 April to early May: Tulips at Houghton
The team at Houghton Hall have been busy planting 25,000 tulip bulbs supplied by Peter Nyssen, transforming the estate’s award-winning five-acre walled garden into a celebration of spring colour, complementing the avenues of blossom and early flowering plants and bulbs. Another highlight will be the first presentation of three new sculptures by Antony Gormley, which will sit atop the garden wall. Open Saturdays, Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 April to early May (plus the May bank holiday weekend). Dates subject to seasonal conditions.
11 April: Creake Abbey Spring Gift Fair
Whether you’re looking to pep up your home or refresh your wardrobe, you’ll find everything at Creake Abbey’s Spring Gift Fair on 11 April (10am to 4pm), from pottery to knitwear, garden ornaments to handmade soap. Making their first appearance at the fair are Sole of Summer with rainbow-bright espadrilles and Norfolk Eye Pillows. There’ll be plenty to eat and drink too!
11 April: Sheringham Viking Festival
Sheringham Viking Festival, a one-day event that celebrates Norse culture and traditions, always delivers on family fun. On 11 April, visitors will descend on the coastal town to watch re-enactments and take part in creative and educational activities in the ‘Viking Village’ on Beeston Common, followed by a lively parade and boat burning on the seafront.
12 April: An introduction to the birds of Cley
New to birdwatching and want to learn more about birds? No matter your age, you can join the team for this walk on the reserve and the chance to see the wide variety of species Cley has to offer. (Walk length approximately 2 miles). This is one of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s regular walks at Cley Marshes which also include a mindfulness walk and a walk with the warden.
www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
14 April: Iron road ramble
Discover the wildlife and explore the range of habitats in some of the less visited areas to the east of NWT Cley and Salthouse Marshes reserve. Walking along the Attenborough Walk you’ll call in at Bishop’s and Babcock Hides before crossing the grazing marshes via the Iron Road to the beach. A 1km hike along the shingle can give views of marine life and maritime plants before we enjoying relaxed views of the birdlife on Arnold’s Marsh and along the East Bank, as you make your way back to the visitor centre. This is one of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s regular walks at Cley Marshes which also include a mindfulness walk and a walk with the warden.
www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
17 to 19 April: FEI Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International Horse Trials
The FEI Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International Horse Trials has long put North Norfolk on the eventing map. Riders of all abilities, from grassroots competitors to elite champions, are set to gather for the equine event on 17 to 19 April, promising a weekend of top-class sport as they tackle the challenging courses. In addition to watching the competition unfold, there’s no shortage of entertainment, with a fun fair and shopping village.
19 April: The Author’s Hour
Spend an afternoon with prize-winning Palestinian-Italian author Sabrin Hasbun who’ll be discussing her memoir Crossing at Westacre Theatre from 2pm. This sweeping family saga spans continents, generations and identities as Sabrin retraces the extraordinary story of her Palestinian father and Italian Mother. All proceeds support the venue’s Summer Theatre Tent Appeal.
2 May: Horning Boat Show
The eighth Horning Boat Show is set to take place next to the River Bure from 10am to 4pm, complete with exhibitors showing luxury motor cruisers and sailing boats, plus many other marine products and services. Horning Sailing Club will put on their discover sailing event, there’ll be classic cars on display, craft exhibitors, charity stalls, a food court and the boat show auction. Free entry to the show, with free parking at BeWILDerwood and shuttlebuses to the event (for a small charge). The Horning Boat Show is supporting Autism Anglia and the Nancy Oldfield Trust.
2 to 4 May: North Norfolk Railway’s Classic Comedy Weekend
Join in the fun this year for a triple celebration at the North Norfolk Railway’s Classic Comedy Weekend with special skits and unlimited train travel. Enjoy period music and special skits at Weybourne Station inspired by the three classic sitcoms filmed there; Dad’s Army, ‘Allo ‘Allo and Hi de Hi. Classic vehicles will be joined alongside Corporal Jones’ much loved Butchers van and various wartime capers which will bring the Walmington-on-Sea stars to life again, courtesy of the Thetford Dad’s Army Museum.
Visit and travel behind some of the line’s powerful steam locomotives as they haul trains of restored steam-era carriages.
6 May: An afternoon with Paul Martin
The presenter of BBC’s Flog It (who is also head of valuations at premier auctioneers Henry Alridge & Son Ltd) will be at Cromer Pier Pavilion Theatre, with a meet and greet at 1pm where hand-held objects can be valued, followed by a theatre talk at 3pm, where Paul will discuss his career in TV and antiques, plus a q&a session and book signing.
10 May: Fakenham Hat Walk
For something a little different, this year’s Fakenham Hat Walk takes place on 10 May. Organised by the Extraordinary Hat Co. and Active Fakenham to mark World Hat Walk Day, participants are invited to wear something on their head, whether a baseball cap or an avant-garde millinery creation, for the one-mile circular route.
15 to 17 May: Cromer Crab & Lobster Festival
Cromer Crab & Lobster Festival kicks off with a variety show on Friday evening at the Pavilion Theatre, hosted by Olly Day. On the Saturday and Sunday, there’ll be heritage displays on Evington Lawns, including crab pot making, as well as live music and local chefs whipping up crustacean dishes in the cookery theatre.
www.cromercrabandlobsterfestival.co.uk
21 May, 9 June: Tea at Twilight Sail
Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust, which maintains and operates five of the remaining eight wherries left on the Broads, has launched its summer season sailing programme (May to September), which includes a new ‘Tea at Twilight’ sail. Taking place on 21 May and 9 June, the three-hour trip in the Broads National Park leaves at 4pm so you can enjoy the sunset while savouring tea and homemade cakes.
24 May: Sandringham Pageant of Motoring
Even if you’re not a petrol head, you’ll enjoy the Pageant of Motoring, which returns to Sandringham Parkland on 24 May (10am to 5pm). Marvel at the classic car line-up, including the Morris Minor Owners Club celebrating its 50th anniversary. New 2026 cars will be on display and there will be activities in the main arena – don’t miss the extreme bike battle show. For those who prefer things less adrenaline-fuelled, there’s live music and a craft and vintage fair.
www.sandringhammotoringpageant.co.uk
31 May: Cley Wild 100: nature day
Norfolk Wildlife Trust Cley Marshes is aiming to spot 100 different species in a single day and need your help! Explore the reserve with youth-led nature walks and get creative with drop-in activities. 10.30am-4pm.
www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
Please check websites for full details, prices, up-to-date information and guidance.
