A new Norfolk Showground Trail, connecting the local community with the Norfolk countryside, launches today – and it’s dog friendly! Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association Managing Director Mark Nicholas MBE explains more
The Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (RNAA) has launched the Norfolk Showground Trail today, an exciting new initiative designed to open up the Showground’s landscaped scenery for the local community and visitors to enjoy all year round. Just months after the successful opening of the Norfolk Food Hall, a showcase for the region’s vibrant agri-food sector, the RNAA is taking the next step in its long-term vision to create a green space for locals and the wider community to enjoy.
“We want to be a part of the growing community here and this nature trail is part of that vision,” said RNAA Managing Director Mark Nicholas. “We want to provide a facility that will bring people together and open up the Showground to the public throughout the year.”
The RNAA is a registered charity established to promote and support food, farming and the countryside in Norfolk. Through educational initiatives, events and community engagement, the RNAA champions the county’s agricultural heritage and future.
The circular trail, which is a distance of 3.7km around the site’s perimeter, will feature a range of natural play and educational elements, including boardwalks, resting areas, ponds, bird and bat boxes, and bug hotels. Information boards and signage will guide visitors through the route, whilst highlighting the area’s rich biodiversity and heritage.
Visitors will have the chance to enjoy a meal and shop for local produce at the Norfolk Food Hall before enjoying the circular journey along the trail. The route has been designed as a valuable addition to RNAA’s educational programmes for schools and home-educated children, supporting the work of the charity’s educational Food and Farming Discovery Trust and encouraging future participation in habitat creation, protection and enhancement projects.
The new Norfolk Showground Trail launches today (Tuesday 23 September 2025). The Main Entrance and Trail Parking can be found near the Norfolk Food Hall. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead (except in designated areas). Visit Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association.
I visited this morning with my young dog.
I was surprised there were no dog waste bins as these are essential for keeping the area clean.
The off leash area was much appreciated and my dog loved being able to run around freely.
At the present time my six year old Granddaughter would find it very uninspiring.
I know it is early days so look forward to seeing how it evolves.