Fun and entertainment Normandy

New owners but the regulars can be reassured, the Antirouille remains the Antirouille, a small and welcoming bar far from the crowd with audio cassettes on the wall! Taken over by Jean and Léo, the relaxed and timeless atmosphere of this bar is always present. Concerts, Beaujolais Nouveau tasting, funky evenings, so many occasions to feast at reasonable prices. For the rest, we come here for a chat or why not to hit the cardboard. And for the amateurs, the table soccer made its great return, we say that...

Vintage is a must in the port of Carentan. And for many good reasons: first of all, because it is a lively place, which offers many concerts. It must be said that the place is ideal, with its beautiful terrace facing the boats in the port, which can accommodate people and musical groups. Here, you can taste wine, beer, tapas, party, watch sports broadcasts, in a very good-natured atmosphere. This establishment, where it is difficult not to have a good evening, is widely validated!

Le Prélude Café is a restaurant, a bar, a tea room and a shop. It can boast of offering every lunchtime a quality cuisine, home-made with mostly local products. The menu changes every day and features salad bowls and generous toasts. Coffee lovers, ask Matthieu about his latest arrivals and let yourself be enchanted by the powerful, fruity and spicy flavours of coffee from Ethiopia, Colombia and elsewhere. A truly unique establishment, whether you like it or not!

Since its opening in the summer of 2018, the Pop Corn has been packed to capacity. It must be said that this is the very first time that a theme bar dedicated to science fiction and fantasy films has opened its doors in Rouen. Geeks and geeks gather here to enjoy creative cocktails under the guidance of a giant tyrannosaurus. Each floor has its own atmosphere. On the ground floor, we find ourselves immersed in a medieval atmosphere like Game of Thrones and The Lord of the Rings. On the first floor, science fiction is in the spotlight with references to Star Wars and Retour vers le Futur. Not to mention that the decoration should evolve over time according to current film news!

A large bar, with a beautiful and winding counter behind which regulars or locals like to spend time. And for many reasons: the place offers many activities. First of all, concerts, with regular dates and a lot of local bands, but also sports broadcasts (the thermometer went up several degrees during the last World Cup), or other festive moments, such as the annual carnival. The ideal place to take your mind off things, or to have an aperitif board with friends.

If you're a fan of paillotes, you'll love this one in Carolles! With a breathtaking view of the sea and the Chausey Islands in the distance, you can sit on the sheltered terrace or with your feet in the sand, before, after, or during your beach visit. Here, you'll also find a number of good, simple restaurants to satisfy your hunger. In the evenings, you'll also find a range of attractive platters. The welcome is great and, to top it all off, DJs sometimes drop in to set the mood!

A well-known establishment here, which has a few decades on the clock, and which remains one of the best places to have a cheap lunch. Le Moderne, it's a daily lunch menu, prepared on the spot with good products, a meat or a fish, and for a really cheap price. The service is very fast, nice, and benefits from one of the most beautiful sunny terraces, facing the theatre on this huge square. Be careful with the crowd, because if the employees do their best to find you a place, at lunchtime it's very crowded!

To have a good time and laugh out loud, nothing beats an evening at the Théâtre à l'Ouest, Rouen's stage dedicated to comedy. This 180-seat venue, created by director Loïc Bonnet and presenter Bruno Roblès, now gives pride of place to comedians of all stripes with one-man and one-woman shows, stand-up comedy, improvisation shows... It's an opportunity to discover new talents in comedy and to meet up with well-known comedians. Moreover, the godfather of the theatre is none other than Franck Dubosc, a native of Petit-Quevilly

For over ten years now, Couleur Café has been inviting you to sample coffees and teas from all over the world: Kenya, Guatemala, Colombia, Brazil, including some exceptional vintages that will delight you, such as Diego Samuel's coffee, an exceptional product with notes of peach and apricot, or Laayooo, with its strawberry and citrus aromas. A wide range of organic and fair-trade products are on offer, as well as espresso machines.

This restaurant and tapas bar smells of Spain, its nightlife and typical dishes! Pushing open the door of this 100% Spanish restaurant (we love the interior courtyard!) is like plunging into a little piece of Spain, with a friendly atmosphere and a spirit of sharing. The menu, featuring tortillas, empanadas, albondigas, cheese platters and typical charcuterie, is right up there. To accompany this homemade cuisine (which can also be enjoyed at lunchtime), the place offers sangria, wines and Spanish beers, always with an Iberian accent.

On the banks of the river Scie, in a typically Norman green setting, the owners of this unusual place welcome you. Come for the grilled pig and stay for the festive, friendly atmosphere! At the Guinguette du Moulin, every day is a party: a lively concert, a banquet around the fire, a Sunday brunch... This is the perfect opportunity to meet up with friends or make new ones. The icing on the cake: the half-timbered building adds a country charm to the whole setting, for a moment of timeless joy.

It's a large bar, frequented by regulars and tourists alike, located in the heart of Argentan. A classic, it is run by a very friendly team and has a terrace in summer, giving you a unique vantage point from which to watch the comings and goings of the lively town centre. Service is fast, and the same goes for the brasserie menu, which is extensive and offers good-quality dishes at good value for money. All in all, a safe bet in the city and a popular spot, especially on market days.

The Silence & Songe company offers dreamlike, multidisciplinary shows in Caen. Their website, silenceetsonge.com, offers more information on their past creations, such as "Le Temps des cendres" in 2025, "Coriolis" in 2022, "Anticyclone" in 2021, "Madeleine" in 2020, "Mon Toit du monde" in 2018 and "Linon" in 2012. The company blends different arts such as theater, magic, visual arts, digital arts and music to create sensory and emotional experiences. For the 2022-2023 season, they have planned a tour with their show "Anticyclone" to various towns in France, including Le Grand Bornand, Changé, Beaumont-Hague, Passais, Le Havre, Dinan, Saint-Romain-de-Colbosc, Petit-Couronne, Saint-Sauveur-Lendelin, Sainte Croix Hague, La Guéroulde, Paris and Évrecy.

A theatre in the middle of Normandy, on the edge of the countryside and woods: unusual, isn't it? Welcome to the world of the equestrian theatre of La Pommeraye, a magical place where Sylvie-Jane, Nino and their horses live in harmony. In summer, the magic happens thanks to the shows. An hour of poetry, colourful costumes and equestrian performance. For those who are curious, there are tours to discover what goes on behind the scenes, from the stables to the costume-making workshop. Don't miss it!

Société des Courses de Francheville is temporarily closed. This racecourse offers an ideal rural setting to spend an afternoon with family and friends. Thanks to a team of skilled and motivated volunteers, regular races are organized on a well-maintained flat grass track. Spectators can thus enjoy a quality show, full of emotion and good humor. The racecourse has an 1125-meter gallop track, a 280-meter gallop straight and an 18-meter track width. Races run counter-clockwise. Country-style catering is also available on site.

With its 1,100-meter grass track and functional infrastructure, it is a popular venue for professionals and spectators alike. The racecourse was launched in 1946 by Gabriel Lefranc and has been hosting horse races since 1950. In 1991, it was renamed in tribute to its founder. Over the years, numerous works have been carried out to improve the facilities, including the refurbishment of the ring and the construction of a new grandstand. The racecourse also contributes to the local economy by hosting various events such as circuses, sports competitions and association meetings. It is considered one of the coast's tourist attractions and contributes to the liveliness of the region.

This racecourse is managed by the Villedieu racing society: the latter, created at the end of the 1940s, offers a dozen or so races a year, which are held on the Saultchevreuil racecourse. The latter, located near the town centre, has a beautiful sand track with a right-hand rope. The grandstands will allow you to sit in the best conditions to enjoy the races you have bet on!

The Trois Pipes racecourse, also known as the Bihorel racecourse, is a racecourse located in the heart of Bihorel, on the northern outskirts of Rouen. This century-old, family-run racecourse is dedicated to trotting, and hosts both harnessed and mounted trotting meetings. With its 1,075-meter, right-hand string sand track, it also has a betting hall and a grandstand seating around 200 people. The racecourse also offers inexpensive catering on race days. To keep the little ones entertained, pony rides and inflatables are also available. In addition to betting on the races taking place on its track, Bihorel racecourse also offers national betting through its PMU counter.

The Hippodrome de Bagnoles de l'Orne is a racecourse located in Bagnoles-de-l'Orne-Normandie.

The Hippodrome des Grèves is a racetrack located in Marcey-les-Grèves, in the town of Vains.

This nice little bar located in front of the harbour was taken over by Camille and Maxime at the end of 2022, and the Narval quickly found a large clientele! Aperitifs are organised, a brewery service - to be tested - has been added, the decoration has been redone, and this tobacconist's stays open late! Many are the night smokers who come to refuel there: be careful not to park in double line on the quay, estimating that the purchase of a pack of cigarettes will only take a few seconds: the police are watching!

The Saint-Aubin-lès-Elbeuf racecourse, also known as the Hippodrome des Brûlins, is a racecourse located on the right bank of the Seine, a few kilometers from Rouen. The racecourse features an 1160-meter sand track, 800-seat covered grandstands and a covered hall reserved for bettors. During race days, free entertainment is provided for children, including pony rides and inflatable structures. Adults can take advantage of a follow car to see the races up close. The racecourse accepts bank and postal cheques as well as cash.

This meeting is entirely devoted to trotters and starts at 1:30 pm. Several races are on the program, including three women's specials, two professional (one mounted and one harnessed) and a third for harnessed women. Spectators will be able to place bets and win numerous prizes. For families, there will also be a hippokid's village and an inflatable structure. Catering will be available on site. A health pass is required with proof of identity. This event promises to be an intense moment of family sharing.

The Bec d'Andaine racecourse in Genêts is a must for horse racing enthusiasts. Managed by the Société de courses de Genêts since 1895, it features a 1,000-metre grass track with a breathtaking view of Mont-Saint-Michel and Tombelaine from the stands. Situated on the Herbus maritime estate, it is built on spit, which gives it a supple surface, except in rainy weather when it can become greasy. It is important to note that the racecourse is completely flooded by the sea when the tidal coefficient exceeds 110. Spectators can enjoy catering under a marquee, as well as a refreshment bar and galettes saucisses.

On the edge of the Andaine Forest, this hippodrome with a trot track hosts a race with seven events recorded on the program, the last Sunday in July. A family day (animation for children, pony race), convivial and popular. Free entrance and country meals.

On-site facilities include a bar, parking lot, restaurant, fast food outlets, sanitary facilities and changing rooms. In addition, a games area is available to entertain visitors. Payment methods accepted include bank and postal cheques, as well as cash. The racecourse also welcomes groups.

The Henri Bonnel racecourse in Le Neubourg is a must for horse racing fans. For over 150 years, this racecourse has hosted renowned meetings organized by the Société Municipale Hippique and its team of volunteers. The racecourse also boasts a grandstand and a pleasant, well-appointed setting. For gallopers, the track measures 805 meters with a 145-meter straightaway. Admission to the racecourse is charged at a full rate of 5 euros, but is free for under-18s. On-site catering is also available, with a capacity of 300 people in a covered hall. All in all, the Henri Bonnel racecourse is a must for horse racing enthusiasts in the Neubourg region.

Located behind the Quai des Arts, Sophie Verdier's antiques store is a beautiful discovery. This seat stylist sells a collection of chairs of all styles, moelleux chairs, chauffeuses, which it has for most itself retapissés, but also chandeliers, tables, tableware, trinkets, dénichées curiosities all over France (like this Franco-Romanian stock of the 30 s!). Its online sales site is very well done, but nothing is worth a stroll in this place where it is also possible to follow tapestry courses and equip itself with a complete range of fabrics, leather and trimmings. Beware! Reservations must be made to be sure to be allowed, except on Saturdays where you can also enjoy the tea lounge.

It's easy to spot the Baligan, with its distinctive wooden storefront! Just a stone's throw from the beach, the place (named after the famous "trou", a natural cavity in the nearby Flamanville cliffs) has it all! It's a lively place where you can have a drink, eat (with a special mention for the burgers, which are tasty and particularly hearty) and have fun, with plenty of concerts in fine weather, making it one of the little town's must-sees. We'll be back in no time!

Ombra coffee roasters, as the name suggests, is a local roastery with a boutique-café where you can find their range of products. Their green coffees come from the specialty coffee sector, a guarantee of quality and traceability. You can come here to work or simply relax over a cup of coffee or cappuccino, accompanied by one of the pastries of the moment. The uncluttered decor creates a pleasant atmosphere where it's easy to concentrate, sitting at the counter overlooking the street.

Almost twenty years ago, the former first-aid post on Agon-Coutainville beach was transformed into a bar-pub with a contemporary decor. Enjoy a good glass of wine, accompanied, why not, by a few tapas of codfish accras and fried chorizo. The wine, in fact: the place is also known as a good wine bar, which, in addition to the advice given on the spot, allows you to taste some very good bottles. All of which can be enjoyed on one of the three terraces overlooking the sea.

This pretty place full of life came out of the warm and overflowing imagination of Coraline and Leo! These two photographers decided to renovate an old farm to make it a cultural place, with photo exhibitions, but also and especially the will to create a lot of exchanges! Concerts, magic shows for children, workshops dedicated to photography and many activities for children are organized in a splendid farmhouse. A favorite, whose program is available on the website.

Toast, dine, share. The motto, inscribed on the walls and networks of the establishment, is scrupulously applied. To toast, choose from sparkling Italian wines, white Spanish wines, or vintages closer to home, such as Utopie, an organic Loire wine, or a few other finds to charm the palate. For dinner, let yourself be inspired by the Mediterranean: tomato salads, asparagus a la plancha, or Moroccan brochettes. To share, sit comfortably by the counter or on the small, quiet terrace.

Getting lost in the fields, through a maze of vegetation of five hectares? This childhood dream comes true here, and without any danger of encountering a combine harvester! Enter this little green paradise, where a three-kilometre labyrinthine itinerary is carefully retraced every year, and to which are added treasure hunts, activities, animal encounters and even picking. In the end: a fun, educational and even gourmet experience that children will love.

Loft had become a place for not very fréquentable… The sub-Prefect of the city took the decision, after several interventions by the gendarmerie in the establishment and the approaches, to close its doors to the public for almost a month. The bar Les Voiles Rouge is now open but often closed doors. And the owner has not changed.

An establishment which is a bar, a tobacco shop, a cigar cellar, a PMU and a restaurant at lunchtime (offering a not very elaborate menu, of course, but very affordable, it can help). Thirsty pilgrims stop by chance, regulars by love of the game. The rooms overlooking the pedestrian street of Mortain are preferred to the space dedicated to PMU broadcasts, even if the flies tend to nest there. They are deserted in summer in favor of the terrace, although the metallic furniture is not very attractive. As for the service, it is indifferent.

History to finish the evening in beauty, so go to Dover Pub and take your time, it closes at four hours! Established since summer 2007 by Charlotte Delabrousse, formerly the Cotton pub. A good child atmosphere with many people. Different beers each week. Patience, Charlotte anticipates some changes in time, that happiness!

An art cinema and trial conducted by volunteers. Regularly, snacks are organized around a film, a good way to share impressions and teach children not to absorb anything they see and hear in the movies.

The good thing about this place is that it's easy to recognize the team - they don't move around much... or at all! From the top of his Arbuste, Jo, who now also markets at Place Saint-Sauveur on Fridays, is a passionate artisan who swears by high-quality 100% organic beans. On site or to take away, he offers several exceptional vintages, as well as a special beverage every month. Latte, flat white, cortado, mocha or chai latte? Artisanal roasting is the key to sublimating coffee beans, and Jo knows how to vary flavors and aromatic profiles!

This bowling alley is located five minutes away from Avranches on the road to Granville, easily accessible with a large car park available. You can try to strike on one of the eight lanes. And to recover from your emotions, there is a bar and a restaurant where you can follow matches. The place, which changed ownership a few months ago, did not lose its charm: the opening hours are consistent every day, thus allowing us not to linger too long to understand!

The casino of Agon is one of the main points of animation of the seaside resort. The complex is a real centre dedicated to fun. Here, you will find slot machines, of which there are 75, but also poker and boules tables, blackjack, electronic roulette, in short, everything you need! Finally, the casino has a lounge bar, as well as a restaurant: the latter offers traditional and well-made dishes.

Located in front of the large sandy beach of Urville, you will find every day at La Payotte a smiling and pleasant service: the place has recently changed owner after a period of closure that was much missed by the locals! Summer evenings are very popular, just a few steps from the sea: many people come here to have a drink with friends, to nibble on a few small tapas, and why not shake your head to the sounds of music often well chosen? Atmosphere guaranteed: you can go there without hesitation!

The Trident gives the city of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin a place of choice in the network of 70 national stages in France. Under this illustrious name, the management of three theatres is revealed. The national stage attracts approximately 30,000 spectators per year and hosts nearly 130 performances annually. Young artists and companies are received in residence and present their creations to the general public, and the programming is very rich.

Here is a tea room-bar-restaurant where you can stay all day. The decor is cosy, and a small stove will warm up the winter afternoons. During this time, our minds are also nourished by delving into the many books at our disposal. Artists are exhibited, musicians perform regularly, and the place is also a spot to eat, with a cuisine made of fresh, quality, and organic products: great discoveries!

For more than half a century, the Campagnette is the festive place of the center of Manche. Here, concerts follow one another, the restaurant is friendly (and very good!) and of course, here, we dance! At the Campagnette, the decor, rustic and picturesque, has seen generations of dancers pass through this place decorated in the purest English pub style. The atmosphere is always very festive in what insiders call "la Campe": many are regulars, and if you come here for the first time, you will keep a nice memory.

For lovers of beauty, good food and greenery, there's a summer restaurant and tea room in the Jardin des Plantes Orangery. For the first time, Caen's green lung is hosting a place to relax and enjoy a snack. You'll love it! Inès and Axel concoct fresh tartines, salads, gazpacho, club sandwiches, milkshakes, ice creams from Ferme du Bois Louvet, cookies and smoothies. New: hot dishes will be introduced between now and September to warm up cooler days. After l'Aromate (rue Gémare), this couple is not short of panache!