Busy start to first day of Royal Norfolk Show 2023

Perfect show weather - dry, hazy sun and not too hot - is welcoming showgoers.

Long queues built up on surrounding roads during the peak of the morning arrival time. 

Mark Nicholas, managing director of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association, expected crowds of 80,000 to walk through the gates during the two-day annual event. 

Mr Nicholas said: “For those of us closely involved this is the culmination of over 12 months of planning and preparation for this event.  

“With ticket sales looking strong and good weather forecast, the stage is set for a fantastic show and we are hoping to welcome crowds of 80,000 people – at least! 

“This year the show has a real focus on communities and by that, I mean we have a strong community aspect this year, reflecting on community cohesion. 

“Using the platform of the show, we will be saluting more than 600 of our local community heroes and volunteers with a special Community Champions Tribute. 

“This will be further enhanced by two massive Norfolk Music Hub events involving thousands of youngsters, Gareth Malone and a Guinness Book of World Records attempt.” 

Both sunshine and showers have been forecast for the two show days.

A spokeswoman for the Met Office said that today will begin as a clear and largely dry day with a high of 25C. While during the evening, there will be some rain and potential thunder. 

The show's second day, Thursday, will have a damp start from the overnight rain but this should clear for a dry day with highs of 20C. 

Norfolk police are also urging people to be vigilant. 

Assistant chief constable Nick Davison of the constabulary said: “We will have specialist assets at the show, such as plain-clothes police officers, working to keep people safe.  

“If you have any questions or concerns, our officers and security staff will be on hand to assist you.” 

The Royal Norfolk Show is open both days from 7am to 7pm.