Learning to see again might seem an overly dramatic way to describe a walking tour – but that is what en route offers.
The touring experience developed by three Australian artists has been reimagined for Norwich as part of this year’s Norfolk and Norwich Festival, and encourages a fresh take on some familiar places in the city.
Participants are kitted out with a headset and audio guide but the exact route is a mystery – and may change as you go. Instructions are delivered by text messages, audio cues, items you find along the way, and occasional phone calls.
It’s slightly nerve wracking at first – where am I going? what do I do next? – but once you settle into the comfort of letting someone else guide, it gives you the space to notice new details in city streets you might have hurried through thousands of times before.
The soundtrack mixes music – including several tracks by local artists – with spoken word and literary extracts, neatly tailored to your surroundings.
There are lots of delightful surprises and twists and it is immaculately but gently choreographed to keep you safe while feeling totally independent.
It’s refreshing, calming, and revealing. The intimate experience means places are limited and quickly sold out, but a waiting list is available – and it’s a journey well worth signing up for.
- en route continues as part of the Norfolk and Norwich Festival until Sunday 17 May 2026, tickets £20-£30.
