Building on the creative work of their flagship heritage project ‘Stepping into Dragon Hall’ (2023–24), the new initiative will focus on local voices, creativity, and hands-on participation. Over the next fifteen months (August 2025–October 2026), NCW will create opportunities for local people and visitors to explore, shape, and celebrate the stories of Dragon Hall and the surrounding area.

A key strand of the project is the Story Makers heritage research group, where local people with an interest in history can collaborate to uncover hidden stories of those who lived on the Dragon Hall site over centuries. Their discoveries will be developed into a new public exhibition. Anyone interested in joining the group can contact [email protected].

The project will also launch a school’s programme designed to connect young people aged 8–13 with local history through creative writing. Schools are invited to take part in visits to Dragon Hall, inspiring the next generation to discover the city’s heritage in imaginative ways. Schools interested in participating should contact [email protected].

Additional activities include:

• Free drop-in visitor days at Dragon Hall, three day per week.
• Family friendly activities and early years storytelling.
• Training and support for NCW volunteers, supporting a welcoming visitor experience.
• A new Conservation Management Plan to safeguard the Grade I-listed building’s future.

Peggy Hughes, CEO of National Centre for Writing, said:

‘Thanks to the support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund and players, this project will bring new voices and perspectives into the heart of our building, visitor experience and participatory activities. It’s a step forward for how we define and share the heritage of this extraordinary place – connecting past and present communities who’ve inhabited King Street and the surrounding area, as well as understanding the future needs of our site through new interrogations of its structure.’

NCW will continue their partnership with the Norfolk Record Office and local heritage organisations, including Norfolk Museum Service, Norfolk Heritage Centre, and Norwich City of Sanctuary. Together, they will explore themes of migration, community, and change, bringing archival research to life for everyone.

This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players.