Celebrating 60 years: the Worstead Festival has it all. A weekend of displays and festivities, it is Norfolk’s largest village festival. If you missed today, there is plenty to see tomorrow Sunday 26 July.
The festival began in 1966 and is the largest village festival in Norfolk. It all began with an idea to fund urgent repairs on the church which was falling into disrepair. Later it became an event to celebrate the historical ‘Worstead Weavers’ for which the village is known for, alongside farming and the rural way of life that has existed for hundreds of years.
Across two fields, as well as in the enormous St Mary’s church, are an array of arts and crafts for sale, and plenty of eateries. There are fairies, beautifully dressed shire horses, cowboys performing tricks on their magnificent horses cantering across the main ring and agility dogs, sometimes performing obediently, and sometimes preferring to sniff for food to the embarrassment of their owner. Raptors also make an appearance with owls, buzzards and a rather strange looking Australian frogmouth.
Wildlife charities, tractors, vintage cars and various steam engines are a great draw. If you fancy trying archery, this is available too. The craftmanship and talent on display from chainsaw sculpting, to the finest pointillism pictures, to beautiful snuggle wraps is impressive.
Children can let off steam at the bouncy castles and inflatable play areas, while older folk can watch the acts on the music stage or the display events in the main ring or in Mill Hill Fields. There is also a small animal petting area with goats, sheep and other creatures. Truly the festival has something for everyone.
The festival is free to under 16s. Adults pay £10 entry. Profits go to local causes. Dogs are welcome. Plenty of parking for cars a short walk away with disabled parking closer and a bicycle park near the village hall. Location: Ruin Road, Worstead, North Walsham, Norfolk, NR28 9WH, United Kingdom
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