The Friendly Invasion
During WW2 more than 300,000 Americans settled into airbases scattered across East Anglia. This ‘Friendly Invasion’ had the biggest impact on the landscape, culture, and people of East Anglia since the Norman Conquest.
Harleston was one of the towns that welcomed the visitors.
Guided Walks
South Norfolk Council are coordinating guided walks across the district. Harleston is telling its role in the Friendly Invasion as part of the Harleston 2025 Guided Walks programme.
Walks run from May to September, meeting at 12:00 outside the museum off Broad Street. Tickets are £5 payable to the guide on the day.
3 May 2025 at 11:00 am
3 May 2025
11:00 am
7 June 2025 at 11:00 am
7 June 2025
11:00 am
19 July 2025 at 11:00 am
19 July 2025
11:00 am
16 August 2025 at 11:00 am
16 August 2025
11:00 am
Marking the profound impact of the American presence during World War II, South Norfolk Council proudly ran 'The Friendly Invasion' (TFI) Project. This initiative, inspired by the recent Apple+ series 'Masters of the Air', and aims to preserve and showcase the rich history of the more than 300,000 American airmen who came to the region, leaving an indelible mark on its landscape, culture, and people.
Funded by a £20,000 grant from the Pride in Place initiative, the TFI Project is a collaborative effort by heritage stakeholders across East Anglia. Its mission is to create a lasting legacy and ensure the stories of this pivotal era in our region’s history are not forgotten.
Self Guided Trails
There are a collection of FREE self guided walking and audio trails around Harleston and Redenhall.
Now and Then
Follow a trail of buildings dating back to 1600s with photos of now and then.
Military Remembrance
The Harleston military remembrance walk was compiled by the Harleston...
Voices in the Church
Listen to local people as they take a journey through the history of St Marys Church.
Animals in the Church
Follow a mini safari trail in search of animals. See how many you can find.