About Norfolk Showground Arena
The Norfolk Showground & Events Centre is a major events complex on the outskirts of Norwich (in Costessey). Set within 150 acres of landscaped parkland (norfolkshowground.co.uk ), it combines a large indoor arena (3,000 m²) with extensive outdoor space. It is best known as the home of the Royal Norfolk Show – the largest two-day agricultural show in the UK (norfolkshowground.co.uk ) (royalnorfolkshow.co.uk ) – and has evolved into East Anglia’s premier venue for concerts, conferences, fairs and festivals. The site is operated by the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (founded 1847, given the “Royal” prefix in 1908) (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). A permanent showground was established here in 1954 (norfolkshowground.co.uk ), and over decades it has expanded with new facilities (including the modern Showground Arena hall and the MacGregor conference building) (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). Today it offers indoor and outdoor space for hire and regularly hosts everything from business expos and charity runs to large music festivals. Signature features include open green fields, hard-surfaced rings for exhibitions, and even stables and horse exercise areas for agricultural events (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). The main indoor hall (often called the Events Centre or “Arena”) is fully climate-controlled and can be divided into sections for conferences or opened up (up to 4,000 capacity) for big concerts and banquets (norfolkshowground.co.uk ) (norfolkshowground.co.uk ).
Events and Programming
Norfolk Showground is a year-round venue with a huge variety of events. Each summer it hosts the Royal Norfolk Show (agricultural, trade stands, animals, Grand Ring entertainment). Music and festival promoters often stage concerts and electronic music festivals here: recent headliners at the four-stage Sundown Festival (held in early September) included Sean Paul, AJ Tracey, Chase & Status and Becky Hill (www.ents24.com ) (www.ents24.com ). The UK’s biggest inflatable “Action Arena” obstacle run and family days like Monster Country Festival (with monster trucks and fireworks) also take place on site. Motor and spirit events are common – for example the VW Whitenoise classic car festival and the Japanese Auto Extravaganza (JAE) have been held here (www.ents24.com ). Exhibitions and trade fairs use the halls extensively: boat and marine shows (e.g. the Norfolk Boat Jumble since 1994 (norfolkshowground.co.uk )), antiques fairs, wedding expos, and motorhome or camping shows all appear on the calendar. Sporting and charity events also feature – the Larking Gowen Norwich Half Marathon start/finish, Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life (annual charity run) and local fun runs regularly use the showground terrain (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). Seasonal festivals for families (e.g. Halloween “Warehouse” parties, winter fireworks, Christmas winter wonderland) and community fairs round out the programme. Indoor spaces are equally busy with conference meetings, gala dinners, and training courses using the breakout rooms and suites. In short, the arena sees everything from DJs and live bands to circus shows, athletics meets and corporate gatherings. Ticket prices vary by event – for example the Royal Norfolk Show adult one-day admission is around £32.50 (royalnorfolkshow.co.uk ) – so it pays to check the specific event for costs.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for shows at Norfolk Showground are usually sold through the official event websites or authorised local outlets. In many cases you can buy online via the venue’s own site or from event promoters. For major events (like fairs or concerts) tickets often go on sale months in advance; subscribing to the venue’s newsletter or following local media will alert you to on-sale dates. There is a box office at the Showground that typically opens on event days, selling any remaining tickets (though popular concerts often sell out pre-sale). Ticket prices and tiers depend on the event: prices range from modest sums for community fairs £5–£15, through £20–£40 for medium concerts, up to £100 or more for large multi-day festivals. Concession rates or child/student tickets are available for many events – for example, the Royal Norfolk Show offers reduced child tickets (age 5–16) alongside adult tickets (royalnorfolkshow.co.uk ). Group discounts sometimes apply at business trade shows. Generally the earliest bird or advance tickets are cheapest, with higher door prices if available. Buying in advance is recommended for the biggest shows. Remember to keep your ticket safe (often it is an e-ticket/QR code), and check refund or exchange policies if dates change.
Seating and Layout
The main indoor arena (Norfolk Events Centre) is a huge clear-span hall with no permanent seating: organisers set it up for each event. For conferences or dinners it can be arranged cabaret or theatre-style. For concerts or expos the floor is usually left open. In standing-mode it holds about 4,000 people, but it can be partitioned into smaller halls or seated at tables for galas (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). Acoustically the space is neutral – it has an integrated PA sound system and professional lighting rig in place (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). Views are generally flat and line-of-sight is good from all areas; artists appreciate the lack of obstructing pillars. At music gigs the best spots are usually on the floor near the stage or at the rear near the sound desk (where mixed sound is balanced). During outdoor fairs, some events build temporary stands (for example a grandstand at the Royal Show’s main ring). The St Walstan Hall and other upstairs rooms offer smaller-capacity theatres (up to ~500) for training, cinemascreenings or breakouts (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). For general admission events there are often VIP or raised areas added by promoters. Ambient lighting is bright and adjustable, and over half a dozen break-out rooms (and kitchens) flank the arena (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). The venue has ample roof lighting and heating, and even clockwork air-conditioning as needed, so visibility and comfort are good no matter where you sit or stand. Note that sound can echo subtly in such a large hall, so mid-floor may hear slightly better bass, whereas side areas get more reflected sound (the venue’s in-house PA helps even this out).
Getting There and Parking
Norfolk Showground is on Dereham Road (B1108) in Costessey, just west of Norwich. The venue is located immediately off the A47/Norwich Southern Bypass at the Longwater (A1074) junction (royalnorfolkshow.co.uk ). It is clearly signed from major roads around Norwich. The official postcode is NR5 0TP (some sources list NR5 0TT) (norfolkshowground.co.uk ) – use this in your satnav. For drivers, there is ample free parking on-site (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). Large car parks (often colour-coded at big events) surround the halls. During large shows (like the Royal Show) parking is allocated by event and usually included with entry; for most events parking is simply “free after purchase” and on a first-come basis. The grounds are flat and hard-standing, so normal cars and minibuses can reach the entrance easily. (Note: Travel time from central Norwich by car is about 10–15 minutes via the A47.)
Public transport: Norwich city buses serve the Showground. Konectbus route 4 and First Eastern Counties’s X1/X2 “Excel” service both stop on Dereham Road right beside the venue (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). These run regularly from the city centre, railway station and airport. From Norwich Railway Station (~7 miles east), you can take a taxi or bus 4 westbound to reach the Showground (Brianline). The Norwich International Airport is about 6 miles away. Rideshare taxis (Uber, local cabs) can drop off at the main entrance gates. The King George VI gate (facing Dereham Road) is a common pick-up/drop-off point. For cyclists, there are dedicated cycle racks near the front gates (royalnorfolkshow.co.uk ). Finally, if walking from nearby hotels or businesses, there are footpaths from the Clock Tower junction and along Dereham Road – just watch for event signage guiding you to the correct entrance.
Inside the Venue
On arrival, visitors usually enter through one of the multiple gates into a reception or foyer area. Staff and security typically check tickets (electronic or printed) at the door. There may be bag checks or a metal-detector wand for big events or concerts, so small items are best. Once inside, the atmosphere is very open. The building is essentially one giant hall, so you’ll see the stage or stands from the entry. There are no tight corridors – you step straight into the exhibition/concert space. During confabs or fairs, helpful staff and signage will point you to meeting rooms (like the MacGregor/Colman rooms or St Walstan Hall) or breakout areas.
Facilities: Toilets are plentiful, including several ladies’, gents’ and accessible units around the hall. The venue boasts permanent restroom and shower blocks (norfolkshowground.co.uk ), so you won’t be forced to rely on portaloos (though extra portable toilets are often added at very large events). There are baby-changing tables in the accessible facilities. The showground is fully downstairs level with no steps, and has ramps/accessible doors. In accordance with its charity role, the site offers accessible toilets and even showers for disabled use (norfolkshowground.co.uk ).
Food & drink: Concession stands or pop-up vendors serve snacks, coffee and drinks during events. You’ll often find burger vans, doughnut stands or ice-cream carts at outdoor events. For indoor conferences, buffet meals or food trucks can be arranged; the venue has a caterer’s kitchen if a catering company is brought in. Note that outside catering (picnics) is typically not allowed inside the arena – though some fairs permit outside food in designated picnic zones. Nearby (just outside the site) is the “Showground Table Table” pub/restaurant (www.tripadvisor.ie ), plus a cluster of pubs and eateries at the Clock Tower malls (under a mile away) if you need a sit-down meal. In winter shows there is often mulled wine and snacks on site.
Other services: A staffed coat check or cloakroom is provided for many shows (especially winter events). A visitor information desk or help booth can usually answer venue questions. On major concert nights there will be security guards and first-aiders at hand. Wi-Fi: the arena has venue-wide Wi-Fi for guests to use (norfolkshowground.co.uk ) (though outdoor coverage fades). Mobile phone reception is generally good, as you’re near a city suburb. Shops: at some exhibitions you’ll find official merch stands; often there are on-site vendors selling event programmes, branded souvenirs or farmer’s-market style goods depending on the event.
Nearby Amenities
Just outside Norfolk Showground are several useful amenities. Within a few minutes walk (1 km ) are the Clock Tower shopping area (Dereham Road/The Colney) which has restaurants, cafés and shops. For example, the on-site Showground Table Table pub (part of the Table Table chain) is only ~2 km away (www.tripadvisor.ie ) and serves meals and pints. Also 0.6–1.5 km away (depending on the route) are chains and locals like The Tractor Shed (Wheelhouse centre), Brook Bar & Grill and Chicken Rhubarb – all handy for lunch or a pre-show meal (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Just off the A47 at the Longwater/Costessey junction there are hotels such as Premier Inn Norwich West (Showground/A47) and Holiday Inn Norwich, both under 2 miles away. Closer in Norwich city centre (10–15 minutes drive) you’ll find hotels like the Novotel and Mercure. There are petrol stations, supermarkets (Tesco/Asda) and leisure parks a mile away for last-minute purchases.
Timing: On event days the traffic can get busy on Dereham Road and A47. Plan extra time in mornings. If you arrive early, you can often relax in the parkland around the arena or grab a coffee at the on-site café (open during shows). For late-night exits the site is floodlit and the police/race-marshal team usually help guide traffic out. Taxi services will queue at the main car park exits after large concerts.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Norfolk Showground is loved by both organisers and attendees for its unique blend of spaciousness and rural charm. Architecturally it isn’t grand or historic, but its size and versatility are unmatched in the region. The wide-open park surrounded by trees gives it a countryside feel even as you drive off a main road – many events capitalise on this scenic backdrop. The indoor arena is modern and pillar-free, impressive for its scale (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). The site’s history as the permanent home of Norfolk’s flagship county show (dating back over 60 years (norfolkshowground.co.uk )) gives it a traditional pedigree; people still flock each summer to the Grand Ring for horse shows, steam engines and livestock classes just as visitors did decades ago. Over the years it has hosted famous appearances – from royal visits to stunts – and popular headline music and circus acts. The fact that festival promoters and sports clubs repeatedly choose it testifies to its reputation: for example, Cancer Research UK and Norwich City Council have praised how well it supports charity race events (norfolkshowground.co.uk ), and artists often remark on the friendly, spacious backstage areas. Cultural significance also comes from community tradition: local families expect the Norfolk Show and fireworks (“Autumn Lights”) each year, and the venue regularly shares profits with farming charities. Moreover, its endless grassy rings and exhibition halls allow creativity – one week it might be a drone expo, the next a medieval fair. Norfolk Showground’s “personality” is that of a friendly, everyman venue that punches above its weight. Its setting on green fields near Norwich (rather than in the city centre) means you feel relaxed and away from urban noise, yet you’re still only a short drive from town amenities. All of these factors – size, flexibility, rural atmosphere, and a century of local heritage – make Norfolk Showground Arena a truly distinctive venue in the East of England. (norfolkshowground.co.uk ) (norfolkshowground.co.uk )
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is generally wheelchair-friendly. All main entrances and halls are step-free, and disabled parking is available on-site. Accessible (wheelchair) toilets and showers are provided (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). Service animals are welcome, but note that pets (especially dogs) can struggle when it’s very warm (www.tripadvisor.ie ) – many visitors agree it’s best not to bring dogs on hot summer days. For any special assistance, contact the organisers ahead of time (for example to arrange a helper or to find out where accessible seating is placed).
What to bring: Check the weather. Many events involve walking outdoors, so on a rainy day wear boots and bring waterproofs; on sunny days wear sunscreen and a hat. Ear protection is wise for loud concerts. A small blanket or folding chair can be useful for outdoor stages or daytime concerts on the grass. If visiting the Royal Norfolk Show, bring cash too (for market stalls and rides) though card payments are now common. Check your event’s rules on prohibited items. Large backpacks are typically not allowed at concerts or fairs (security may ask you to empty them) – a small handbag or zippered pocket is recommended. Umbrellas are usually fine (outdoors) but may be disallowed in heavily-crowded shows. Phones and cameras are permitted for personal photos; major shows like concerts often allow phones but not professional video cameras.
Common mistakes: Don’t expect everything to be signposted inside – event staff will help, but a quick look at the venue map (often on the event’s official app or site) is useful. Arriving late can be problem on big days: gates often open very early (for example the Royal Show starts at 7 am (royalnorfolkshow.co.uk )), so if you plan to see morning events get there early. Conversely, staying too late can mean long waits for traffic to clear or taxis. If you’re attending a two-day festival, remember the arena may have free (or paid) lockers or you should bring minimal overnight gear. Some visitors forget clothes for chilly evenings in the hall – it can feel cooler once outdoor heat vents off.
Dress code: There is no formal dress code for most events (come as you like), though smart-casual is normal for business conferences or gala dinners. Very few events will turn you away for casual clothing – e.g. you’ll see anything from jeans to dresses depending on what’s on. For the agricultural show, many people dress “country casual” (wellies, jackets). If in doubt, look at past event photos on social media to gauge how others dress.
Connectivity: As noted, Wi-Fi is available indoors (norfolkshowground.co.uk ), and most mobile phones get reception. Recharge stations (USB plugs) may be available at conference events or business fairs – ask at the information desk. Otherwise, there’s no dedicated business centre, so get any printing or copying done ahead of time.
Age restrictions: Family events (boat shows, festivals) are usually all-ages. Music concerts may have age limits (for example many electronic night-time events are 18+). The Royal Show is child-friendly (children are free or cheap before age 5-16 depending on the type). Always check the specific event’s website – some may require adult supervision or impose strict parental cuts, especially for late-night concerts or certain exhibits (e.g. tractors or animals might not allow very young children for safety). Plan ID for older teens if needed.
Insider advice: If you have time, visit the Grand Ring or livestock areas early in the Royal Show to beat the crowds. At concerts, standing on either side of the main stage (rather than straight centre) can give a better sound balance. On hot days, use the shaded areas near the staging or bring a folding fan – some events hire out parasols. Many visitors enjoy walking the short trail through the woodland on the grounds for a quiet break (the Showground has small copse areas framed by the fields). In autumn, keep an eye out for hot-air balloons taking off nearby (some festivals coordinate with the Nightglow display). Essentially, come prepared for lots of walking and use the venue as your base to enjoy the event without feeling cramped – it really is one of the most spacious places you can go for entertainment in Norfolk.
How much do tickets usually cost for events at Norfolk Showground?
Ticket prices vary widely by event. Smaller community fairs or talks may be under £10, whereas large concerts or festivals might run £20–£70+ per ticket. For example, adult day tickets for the Royal Norfolk Show are about £32.50 (royalnorfolkshow.co.uk ) (two-day passes £55). Check each event’s official page for precise pricing.
Where can I buy Norfolk Showground tickets?
Tickets are typically sold through the event organiser or the official Norfolk Showground website. You can often purchase online via the venue’s or promoter’s site. Some authorised local retailers or the box office at the Showground (on event days) also sell tickets. Avoid unofficial re-sellers.
Is there a box office or are tickets available at the door?
Yes, most events have a box office at the venue itself. If not sold out in advance, you can often buy tickets on arrival. The box office staff typically open about an hour (or more) before a show starts. For popular concerts or very large shows, it’s safer to buy ahead as day-of tickets can sell out quickly.
Does Norfolk Showground have free parking?
Yes. The Showground provides ample free car parking for all events (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). You simply park on the site’s designated lots without an extra fee. (At major events like the Royal Show, parking is usually included with your ticket.)
What is the address and postcode for Norfolk Showground?
The Showground is on Dereham Road (B1108) in Costessey, west Norwich. The postcode for navigation is NR5 0TP (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). It’s about 7 miles west of central Norwich, just off the A47/A1074 junction (Longwater Interchange).
Is there public transport to Norfolk Showground?
Yes. Konectbus route 4 and First Eastern Counties “Excel” buses both stop right outside on Dereham Road (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). These connect to Norwich city centre, the railway station and airport. If coming by train, get off at Norwich station (7 miles away) and take the bus or a taxi to the venue (norfolkshowground.co.uk ).
Which gates or areas should I use for drop-off or pick-up?
The main gates on Dereham Road (King George VI gate) are used for the majority of events and are suitable for drop-off. During big shows, event staff or signage will direct taxis and drop-offs to the correct entrance. There is a pedestrian drop-off point near the King George VI gate as noted for cyclists (royalnorfolkshow.co.uk ), which taxis can use as well. Always follow the marshal instructions on event day.
What seating or standing options does the indoor arena offer?
The indoor arena has no fixed seats: organisers set up the space as needed. Concerts are typically general admission standing on the flat floor, while conferences might use rows of chairs or tables. You’ll want to arrive early if you need a front-row spot. For exhibitions you just roam and stand. The versatility means the “best” spot depends on the event – e.g. near the centre mix desk or by the stage for concerts. VIP seating is only provided for certain ticket packages if the promoter arranges it; otherwise there are no permanent VIP boxes.
Can I bring a bag or backpack into the venue?
Large bags or suitcases are generally discouraged for safety. Small day-bags or backpacks are usually allowed, but they may be searched at security. If you bring a bag, make sure it’s within any size limits posted by the event. For peace of mind, bring only essentials, as coat-check services are often available for larger coats or luggage.
Are pets allowed at Norfolk Showground events?
Standard policy is that only assistance dogs are allowed anywhere on site. Pets (dogs, etc.) are usually not permitted, especially at major gatherings. In fact, some visitors have noted that dogs struggle in hot, crowded conditions (www.tripadvisor.ie ), so organisers strongly discourage bringing pets. Always check a specific event’s rules if you’re uncertain.
Are food and drink vendors available inside the venue?
Yes, most events feature on-site catering. Look for snack stalls, food trucks and drink stands inside and outside the halls during the show. You can buy typical fair food (burgers, ice cream, coffee, etc.), and at larger events there may be multiple bars. (Outside food is usually not allowed in the main hall, but water bottles are often permitted.) For more dining, restaurants like Table Table pub are adjacent to the Showground (www.tripadvisor.ie ).
Where are the restrooms and baby-changing facilities?
Restrooms are plentiful. The site has permanent toilet blocks (including wheelchair-accessible and baby-changing facilities) (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). You will find ladies’, gents’ and disabled toilets inside the main building, plus additional portable toilets outside for big outdoor events. Facilities are well-signed. (On very busy event days, queues can form, so plan accordingly.)
Does the venue have Wi-Fi and mobile coverage?
Yes, the main arena offers guest Wi-Fi and power outlets as standard (norfolkshowground.co.uk ), so you can stay connected during indoor events. Mobile phone signal is generally good throughout the complex (the site is near Norwich suburbs), though very crowded conditions can occasionally slow data. Outdoor coverage is typically fine on the lawns and car parks.
What is the capacity of Norfolk Showground?
The main indoor hall (Norfolk Events Centre) covers about 3,000 m² and can hold around 4,000 people (standing room) (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). Including all outdoor areas, the site can accommodate very large crowds – up to roughly 50,000 during major open-air events (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). Each specific event will have its own capacity limit published.
Is the Norfolk Showground Arena indoors or outdoors?
It’s both. The main Arena (show hall) is an indoor, roofed building with climate control. Surrounding it are 150 acres of outdoor parkland and rings (norfolkshowground.co.uk ). Many events use both: for example, the agricultural show uses indoor halls for exhibits and the fields for livestock and rides. Check the event – some are entirely indoors, some outdoors, and some a mix.
Is Norfolk Showground open outside of events?
No. The Showground is not a walk-in tourist site. The grounds and buildings are only open to the public during scheduled events (fairs, concerts, shows). Between events, the site is closed or used only by staff and event organisers. You cannot tour the venue unless you have a ticket to an event.
