With Summer drawing to a close and the days becoming shorter, here at ABC Taxis we thought it would be a good idea to provide a guide to a few things you can do throughout September. As the weather becomes more unpredictable and colder, relieve those Winter blues and enjoy those last few sunny days with our list of great things to do in and around Norwich this month.

WELLBEING

‘Pop up’ guided meditation session with The Meditation Man.

Set in the stunning plantation Gardens on Earlham Road, this ticketed hour-long guided meditation session is a perfect alternative to the post lockdown rush.  The meditation session is suitable for adults of all abilities and the outdoor space allows for appropriate social distancing.  Masks are not a requirement but you must bring your own cushion, mat or folding chair. The event runs between 9.15 -10.15 on Saturday 5th and Saturday 12th of September in the Plantation Gardens on Earlham Road and tickets are £4.75 each. Parking is available but limited so booking a taxi is recommended.

Festival Of Wellness Norwich 2020

Join like-minded individuals for a weekend of handcrafted items, alternative therapies and more at St Andrews Hall on Saturday the 26th and Sunday the 27th of September.  Entry is free and the weekend will feature workshops, spiritual mediums and psychics from over 60 exhibitors.  Refreshments are available and the weekend will feature a variety of wellbeing demonstrations and talks.

MUSEUMS

Norwich Castle

Arguably the city’s most prominent landmark is Norwich Castle.  Built by the Normans over 900 years ago the castle now plays host to a museum and art gallery and is packed with treasures and artefacts that make a visit to Norwich Castle an intriguing and exciting day out for all the family. Visit the website for ticket prices and further information about events and social distancing measures. Perfect for those not so sunny days.

The South Asia Collection

Housed in a stunning grade 2 listed building, this architectural wonder was built to house a Victorian roller skating in the late 1800s the building was converted into a theatre only a year after opening.  After a variety of purposes, it now houses the collection of  Philip and Jeannie Millward, who started the collection in 1979 and has since grown to be an internationally renowned showcase of Asian artefacts, art and objects.  Featuring everything from a Javanese Wayang Puppetry exhibit to Indian Deities and Ritual Objects   It includes authentic embroidered, woven and printed textiles; 18th-century paintings and prints to vernacular furniture and everyday domestic objects from the region.  Immerse yourself in South East Asian culture with a visit to the collection on Bethel Street and be sure to visit their website for guidance for visitors.

CHURCHES AND CATHEDRALS

Norwich Cathedral

Wherever you are in Norwich you’re likely to see the towering Romanesque spire of Norwich Cathedral.  The 900-year-old architecture is awe-inspiring and a wonder to explore and often plays host to exhibitions.  Grab a light bite to eat in the Refectory café and relax in the serenity of the Herb and Japanese Gardens.  Located in the grassed centre of The Cloisters is a labyrinth laid to Commemorate Her Majesty The Queens Golden Jubilee.  You are invited to walk the labyrinth that is said to represent a spiritual journey and can be used for those amongst other things, seeking guidance, grieving or resolving a problem.  

The cathedral invites general visitors and tourists to visit when public worship is not taking place. Opening times are usually Sunday 1pm- 3 pm, Monday to Friday 10am-4pm, and Saturday 10am-3pm. Currently, entry into the cathedral for general visitors is via the Hostry and all visits will be subject to a one-way route and social distancing measures.  Parking is limited so booking a taxi is advised.

GARDENS & NATURE

Enjoy nature in the garden with Hawks and Owls

Visit Grapes Hill Community Garden on Sunday, September the 20th for an amazing showcase of hawks and owls from Norfolk Wild Encounters all on display on the lawn.  The event will also see areas dedicated to Hodmedods Hedgehog Support and Acle Crafts and will be a fantastic day out for the family to enjoy nature and crafts and to get up close to some magnificent creatures.  Entry is free but places must be booked and children must be accompanied by an adult. A one in one out policy and a one-way system will be implemented so be prepared to wait at the gate for a period of time before entering.  

Help maintain the community garden on Grapes Hill by registering to become a volunteer gardener.  It is also possible to rent a raised bed for your own horticulture.

Foraging in Mousehold

The nights are drawing in, the leaves are starting to turn to and the mushroom season is nearly upon us.  On the ground, beneath the mulch of leaves, many species of fungus are emerging. Appearing with astonishing speed in the perfect conditions Mousehold heath is the perfect foraging spot for all kinds of edible mushrooms.  It’s strongly advised to be accompanied by someone who knows what they’re looking for as many species of fungus are poisonous.  But find the right spot and during the month of September, a whole bounty of edible mushrooms can be collected.

Spectacular Woodland Colours

For those who like to get out into nature Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden is a hidden gem in the heart of the Norfolk Broads. Stunning woodland walks and gardens set in over 130 acres of ancient woodland. Grab some refreshments at the quaint tearoom and plant sales area, and for the youngsters, there is a children’s nature trail. Whilst visiting during September you are likely to enjoy migrant birds and wildlife in the garden as well as many varieties of fungi and toadstools. Entry is Adult £7.50 for Adults, Concessions £6.95, Children 4+ £3.95.