Wroxham Barns celebrates 40th anniversary in Norfolk

Wroxham Barns, in Tunstead, is marking its ruby anniversary offering shopping, animal petting, camping and farm yard fun in the county.

Owner Ian Russell, 66 - who was just 25 when he bought the farm - has described his thoughts on four decades in the entertainment industry. 

"We're very proud to have been open for so long but we're also very conscious we're only as good as our next day for the visitors.

Wroxham Barns is celebrating its 40th year in north Norfolk (Image: Newsquest)

"Wroxham Barns has survived for so long because we continue to question if what we're offering is right and how we can improve on it.

"It's all about trying new ideas and challenging ourselves.

"But the business has proven to be pretty resilient and I think that's because Norfolk has an enduring popularity."

Ian Russell bought the farm in 1982 when he was only 25 years old (Image: Newsquest)

Wroxham Barns was opened on May 24, 1983, by the then chairman of the English Tourism Board which Mr Russell said was "not every day that happens". 

"The only way this business will survive is if we focus on where we're going not where we've been," he said.

READ MORE: Stay in newly-revamped luxury bell tents at Norfolk attraction

"Learning from the last 40 years and seeing how things have changed is an important mindset to have."

Mr Russell also praised his young team members over the years, many of whom have launched successful careers in hospitality and tourism, with a current staff roster which he called "shining stars".

Children have enjoyed the animal petting at the attraction for four decades, seen here in 1992 (Image: Newsquest)

Last year, the Barns doubled its acreage with the Field of Fun and developed its camping offering to include newly renovated bell tents as part of Mr Russell's vision for the future.

"People want experiences," he said.

"So we want to really develop our events and entertainment line-ups to further provide that."