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Norwich Breweries: 'Beer is Best, it gives life zest, Norwich brewers led the rest

National Centre For Writing, Dragon Hall, 115-123 King Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1QE

  • 13 Sep 2026
  • | In person
  • | Pre-booking preferred
  • | Talk

Frances and Michael Holmes from Norwich Heritage Projects tell the story of the rise, fall and renaissance of the city’s brewing heritage, together with tales of those who worked there.

In the 1950s Norwich was home to four of the country’s leading breweries; by the 1970s,it was described by CAMRA as a ‘beer desert’.

Frances and Michael Holmes are local history enthusiasts and authors who operate under the non-profit organisation Norwich Heritage Projects. Their focus lies on the everyday history of the city, often capturing stories from people who lived through major changes in the 20th century. They produce books, websites and presentations, and deliver short courses in liaison with the organisation Norwich Lifelong Learning.
Their award-winning publications include: The Old Courts and Yards of Norwich, Norwich Pubs and Breweries, Past and Present, The Story of the Norwich Boot and Shoe Trade, Norwich 1945 to 1960: A Journey from Austerity to Prosperity, and The Days of the Norwich Trams

In recent years, they have transitioned toward publishing more of their research as free online articles on their official website norwich-heritage.co.uk.

Timings

Sunday 13 September:
10:30-11:15

Location & directions

National Centre For Writing, Dragon Hall, 115-123 King Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1QE

Directions:
Additional details on getting to the venue are available on our website: https://nationalcentreforwriting.org.uk/plan-your-visit/

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:
Pre-booking preferred
Booking conditions:
Book via our website nationalcentreforwriting.org.uk or call us on 01603 877177.

Accessibility details

Full accessibility details are online https://nationalcentreforwriting.org.uk/visit-us/the-literature-house/accessibility/

Additional information

Max number of people:
100
Estimated duration:
0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)

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