Summer Events 2026
The only English city located inside a national park, Norwich is famous for its independent spirit and thriving retail scene, but there’s so much more to see and do; from vibrant festivals to live music, rich medieval history to world-class food and drink, a city break in Norwich offers something for everyone.
Here are our top picks of fabulous summer events to come and enjoy:
4 July Gin & Rum Festival
The Gin & Rum Festival is back and bigger than ever, and for one weekend only. Whether you're a spirit enthusiast or just up for a brilliant afternoon or evening out, this is your ticket to flavour, fun, and unforgettable vibes, so come and enjoy the UK’s Biggest Touring Gin & Rum Festival in Norwich.
10 to 12 July Lord Mayor’s Festival
Celebrate Norwich in full bloom as the Lord Mayor’s Weekend celebrations return from Friday 10 – Sunday 12 July 2026. The event celebrates the city's vibrant creativity and community spirit, featuring free entertainment, live music, family-friendly activities, and the iconic carnival procession.The 12th July is also the Norwich Lanes Summer Fayre which is a showcase and celebration of our wonderful citys independent shops with plenty of food & drink options as well as live music.
14 to 24 July Norwich History Festival
An exciting programme of enlightening talks, compelling tours, film screenings and other events across the city, under the theme 'why history matters'. History is woven into the fabric of Norwich, with fascinating figures, iconic landmarks and major events all telling the tale of our fine city.
20 to 23 August Rock ‘n’ Roll Circus
The event combines big-top headline concerts with live circus acts, fire shows, and aerialists, bringing a unique blend of live music and spectacular circus entertainment to Earlham Park. Set beneath an impressive Big Top, this immersive festival combines world-class performances with a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere in one of the city’s most scenic outdoor spaces.
The 2026 line-up is now fully announced, with James opening on Thursday, The Streets headlining Friday with a full performance of A Grand Don’t Come for Free, The Kooks on Saturday, and Madness closing the weekend on Sunday.
6 September Run Norwich
Run Norwich is a charitable 10k road race that takes place every year around Norwich’s beautiful historic centre, passing iconic landmarks, including Norwich Castle, The Forum, and Norwich Cathedral. Come and join tens of thousands of spectators and enjoy this unique event.
38 St Giles is a boutique, luxury hotel in the heart of Norwich.
We are the only centrally located boutique luxury hotel, a perfect base from which to explore the rich sensory sights, sounds, and tastes of one of the most complete medieval cities in the UK.
Norwich is ideal for a city break due to its compact, walkable city centre, its narrow medieval streets packed with independent boutiques, cafes, restaurants and bars that celebrate our Indy spirit. You can take in a show at the Theatre Royal, marvel at the stunning Art Nouveau Royal Arcade or browse the many stalls on one of the UK's largest and oldest outdoor covered markets.
For business or leisure, whatever your pleasure, book a stay with us.