Culture and Recreation

Norwich was in the final four shortlisted to be the 1st UK City of Culture in 2013. Unfortunately the city did not win but there are plans for the city to host their own celebrations in 2013.

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Norfolk's vibrant cultural scene grows bigger and better every year. There are great rock and pop concerts at Norwich's music venues, while the annual Norfolk and Norwich Festival and Contemporary Art Norwich bring art, music and drama from around the world to your doorstep.

Outdoor concerts are very popular in Norfolk with regular summer events at Holkham Hall, Thetford Forest, Blickling Hall and Sandringham and King's Lynn hosts a free festival every year- Festival Too

Modern landmarks such as Lord Foster's recently expanded Sainsbury Centre for the Visual Arts and Sir Michael Hopkins' Forum sit comfortably alongside an incredible 1500 historic buildings, including two cathedrals and a Norman castle.

Norwich's architectural heritage is a powerful symbol of the outlook of city and county - justly proud of its roots, but with a tradition of forward thinking and progress.

Norfolk's countryside provides a stunning environment for water-based sports, fishing, bird watching, walking and cycling. Country houses, including Sandringham Royal Estate, Holkham and Blickling Halls provide attractions for all the family.

King's Lynn in west Norfolk has one of the greatest concentrations of listed buildings in the country and possibly the best preserved market square in England. There are 14 grade 1 listed buildings and two vibrant theatres.