Opened in 1973 in Bridewell Alley to commemorate the 150th anniversary of J&J Colman’s, The Colman’s Mustard Shop & Museum was intended to be open for one year but it was so successful and popular it continued. It was moved to its current premises in the historic Royal Arcade in 1999, where it is based in a careful replica of Victorian trade premises, and 10 years later was taken over by the Heritage Economic and Regeneration Trust (HEART). Today it is one of Norwich’s most cherished tourist attractions, popular with locals and visitors alike, and is now celebrating 40 years of telling the Colman’s story with a series of special events throughout the year.
Anniversary Exhibition 29th April - 29th June EXTENDED
A 40th anniversary exhibition (Monday 29th April to Saturday 29th June) details the story of J&J Colman’s, their forward thinking decision to create the Mustard Shop, and the history of the shop. The displays tell of the people who made it happen, of the development of the shop over the last 40 years, and plans for the future. On show will be many historic items, such as wartime mustard tins, Victorian and Art Deco mustard pots, and unique memorabilia donated to the shop by members of the public and former employees of both Colman’s and the Mustard Shop & Museum – including a commemorative bust of the first Shop Manager, Ben Cook, and a framed picture of Jeremiah James Colman, kindly donated by the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce.
Recipe Competition 6th May - 30th June EXTENDED
Do you have a favourite recipe that incorporates our products? From the 6th May to the 30th June we will be accepting submissions for a recipe competition. We would like members of the public to create an original recipe that incorporates one (or more!) of our exclusive mustards. The winner and two runners up will receive a free hamper of Colman’s products. Download the application form or to collect from our shop on from the 6th of May.
Anniversary special screening at Fusion, The Forum - 29th April - 4th May
A special 40th anniversary screening in the Fusion gallery at The Forum, featuring archive material, images of the history of the shop and film interviews with those involved.
Monday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm
Mustard Shop and Museum Quiz 1st August - 30th September
Why not test your knowledge of Norwich’s famous attraction in the Colman’s Mustard Shop & Museum Mustard Quiz (1st August –30th September) - can you answer 40 questions for 40 years - on the Mustard Shop, museum, Colman’s Mustard and the 1970s? Download the quiz and entry form or collect one from the shop in the Royal Arcade.
1970s Weekend 10th August - 11th August
Go back to the 70s with the Colman’s Mustard Shop & Museum 1970’s Weekend on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th August! See the staff in retro outfits, enjoy some classic 70s nibbles and take advantage of 1970s prices on exclusive mustard powder!
Mustard Mondays Talks 13th May - 14th October
If you’d like to discover more about the history of Colman’s Mustard, how the company started, what life was like for the factory workers and the stories behind the Colman’s Mustard Shop & Museum, then come along to a special talk and tasting held on ‘Mustard Mondays’ at the Mustard Shop (Monday 13th May, 17th June, 8th July, 5th August, 2nd September and 14th October, 6pm-7.30pm). Tickets cost £2, but entry price is redeemable on the night. Please book in advance on 01603 627889 or in store at the Royal Arcade shop.
Free Gift Days from 16th August for 12 Weeks
Colman’s Mustard Shop& Museum will also be holding special anniversary free gift days - every Friday from 16th August for 12 weeks there will be exclusive product giveaways when you spend over £5 – you could receive a free exclusive wholegrain mustard, mustard powder, scone mix or even a mustard chocolate bar!
All events are at Colman's Mustard Shop & Museum, in the Royal Arcade Norwich, during opening hours unless specified.
Opening hours:
Mon – Sat: 10am-5pm
Sun: 11am-4pm (Jul-Dec)
Bank Holidays: 11am-4pm
