You might think with all the scrolling, swiping, and screen time these days, no one bothers with good old-fashioned magazines anymore. But here’s the surprise… people still love their local mags, and in places like Norfolk they’re as popular as ever!

We’re all online these days. But there’s something special about holding a real magazine in your hands. Local magazines still pop through thousands of letterboxes across Norfolk – and they often stick around far longer than a social media post.

They end up on kitchen tables, pinned to noticeboards, or on the coffee table ready for a quick read with a cuppa. You can’t do that with a Facebook ad.

Whenever I talk to someone about Handy Magazines, they almost always say the same thing: “I love getting it through the door. I always read it!” And they mean it. In a world full of screens, pings, and pop-ups, it turns out people still enjoy something real. Something local. Something made just for their community.

Yes, local magazines are still going strong in 2025, especially here in Norfolk. Here’s why…

Who’s reading them?

It’s not just grandparents! Lots of people enjoy flipping through their local magazine – whether it’s to find a plumber, check what’s on this weekend, or just have a nose at what’s happening nearby.

There’s something nice about reading news and adverts that are actually relevant to where you live. No spam. No pop-ups. Just proper local stuff.

Why businesses still love local mags

If you run a small business in Norfolk, a local magazine can be your best friend. Your advert lands directly in people’s homes—and sticks around for weeks. It’s not just seen; it’s remembered.

It’s also affordable, trusted, and goes straight to your local customers. No fancy algorithms!

Real-life example? Handy Magazine!

Here in Norfolk, Handy Magazine is a great example. It’s a friendly, independent magazine made in Costessey and delivered free to thousands of homes in Costessey and Hellesdon.

It’s packed with local ads, events, and news, and yes, people really do read it (and contact the businesses inside!).

Some of our longest-running advertisers have told us they’ve had the best results, which is why they keep coming back issue after issue. When you’re in front of the same local audience regularly, people start to remember you, and that’s when the magic happens.

The best of both worlds

Many local mags now also have websites and social media to go alongside the printed copy. So you get the best of both – real-world reach and online support.

Handy Magazine also has a thriving Instagram page, regularly updated with local news, events, and friendly reminders.

So… do people still read local magazines?

Yes, they do!

Especially when they’re local, helpful, and well made, like the ones landing on doorsteps in Norfolk every other month.

So whether you’re running a business, organising a local event, or just fancy a read over tea, don’t forget your local magazine. It’s still landing where it matters.

Want to advertise in a Norfolk magazine?

Drop us a message – we’ll help you get seen by thousands of lovely locals!