With the first school half-term break just days away, Castle Quarter is offering families something to enjoy every day, with a week of pocket-friendly activities

With everything happening all under one roof, come rain or shine, there will be an event to make everyone smile. The centre’s February half-term programme combines creative workshops, hands-on history and practical pre-loved school uniform pop-ups, giving children, friends and families the chance to spend time together as they get crafty, explore Norwich’s past and take part in a community art project celebrating the city they call home.

Monday 16 February, 9am–4pm

Pre-loved school uniform pop-up – Castle Quarter Management Office, Level 3 

Castle Quarter’s popular pre-loved school uniform pop-up returns again this February, helping to tick a job off the half-term to-do list, by replacing school uniform clothing and easing the cost of buying new. 

Good-quality uniform for primary and secondary ages will be available, with no pre-booking required. Simply pop along on the day, browse and take your pre-loved pieces home. 

To keep the community initiative going, Castle Quarter is accepting pre-loved donations all year round. Drop off bags at the Centre Management Office. Items must be washed and in good, wearable condition, with all name tags removed where possible. 

Tuesday 17 February, 10am–4pm

Bracelet making (ages 5+)

Children aged five and over can get creative with bracelet making and enjoy a turn on the lucky dip, while supporting local charity Norfolk Recovery Community. The craft stall will be fundraising for the organisation, which supports people affected by drug or alcohol abuse across Norfolk. Optional donations (cash preferable) can be made on the day. 

Wednesday 18 February, 10am–12pm

Join in the LEGO® club

Young children can test their imagination with LEGO® building blocks during a visit by local charity Get Me Out The Four Walls. As well as keeping little ones happily entertained, the team will be on hand to chat about the services they offer, which include peer support and social meet-ups for parents and carers experiencing isolation and who wish to make new friends.

Disclaimer: LEGO® is a trademark of the LEGO Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorise or endorse this event.

Thursday 19 February, 11am–3pm

I Love Norwich community-led art project

Everyone is invited to pick up a paintbrush, crayon or pen and share what Norwich means to them at Castle Quarter’s community-led art project. Individual designs can be detailed or abstract, inspired by landmarks, people or everyday life, what matters most is that all creations express what Norwich truly means to you and tells a story about why you love the city.  

Selected pieces will go on to form part of a new community artwork displayed at Castle Quarter later this spring.

Gemma Hyde, marketing and administration manager at Castle Quarter, said: “When we started talking about our February events, someone asked, ‘What does Norwich mean to you?’ and it instantly sparked a conversation about why we love our city and how we could express that. We thought a collaborative, community-led art project would be a colourful way to show why we all adore the city we call home. We’re inviting everyone to join us, pick up a pencil, paintbrush or pen, and show us your version of Norwich, and why it holds a special place in your heart.”

Friday 20 February, 10am–2pm

Hands-on history and medieval activities with Norwich Castle

Step back in time as the Norwich Castle Learning Team visits Castle Quarter, offering families the chance to handle historic objects such as armour and weapons, explore medieval textiles and decorate their own mini castle. All activities are free and do not require booking. Plus, there’s an opportunity to win tickets to explore the reopened Norwich Castle.

All events are free to attend and take place inside at Castle Quarter, making it an easy, warm and weather-proof option for families and groups looking to make the most of February half-term.

To keep up to date with the latest events planned at Castle Quarter, go to www.castlequarternorwich.co.uk and like the Facebook page.