Chapelfield Gardens: restoring a Norwich icon
Chapelfield Gardens is a cherished public space in the heart of Norwich, with a history stretching back over 350 years. Originally used for public benefit as early as 1655, the gardens were formally laid out in 1746 and have remained a central part of city life ever since.
As the oldest surviving ornamental public park in Norwich, Chapelfield Gardens has welcomed generations of residents and visitors. While its overall design has stayed much the same, some features have been added or lost over time. One of the most beloved additions is the timber bandstand, built around 1899. For over 125 years, it has been the stage for concerts, performances, and community gatherings.
Sadly, the bandstand was showing its age and needed significant restoration. A specialist survey conducted in May 2025 by Lost Art, experts in bandstand restoration, identified key issues and provided recommendations to bring it back to life.
Thanks to a successful application to Historic England, the council secured funding through a Heritage at Risk Grant to support the restoration. A skilled restoration contractor, King and Company were appointed, along with a conservation architect and a landscape architect, to ensure the bandstand was carefully refurbished and preserved for future generations.
As part of the ongoing project, an activity plan will be developed to explore new ways the bandstand can be used by the wider community - making it not just a historic landmark, but a vibrant part of Norwich’s cultural life once again.
Further update on Chapelfield Gardens
Summer 2026 has been on of the driest we have experienced and with the impact of climate change, and use of the gardens, many areas are now devoid of grass. Over the autumn, we will be reseeding large areas to ensure it is once again a truly green space.
