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With endless twinkling lights, festive markets, handmade gifts, delicious food venues, mulled cider, windy beach strolls and enchanting Christmas events – North Norfolk is the perfect spot to bring the festive magic to life this winter.
Thursford
It’s famous worldwide and oozing with Christmas charm, Thursford is the ultimate festive family adventure.
Best experienced from dusk and perfect for all ages, you’ll be transported into a real-life Coca-cola advert on Santa’s Magical Journey. Marvel at the giant teddies, see the elves busy at work in the toy factory and you’ll meet the Snowman’s family before venturing outside to the Lantern Light Extravaganza. Outside is adorned with glowing sculptures, expect the traditional North Pole characters, and be surprised with a fantasy underwater world and magnificent jewelled jungle animals! And at the end of it all there’s a magical meet and greet with Santa. Tickets start from £16 and advanced booking is a must.
For anyone above 8, all the bells and whistles of Christmas are collated into an eclectic fast paced Christmas Spectacular of singing, dancing, fun and laughter in abundance. Take your seat and enjoy the 130-cast show, the largest Christmas of its kind in Europe. Shows run from 10th November to 23rd December 2026 – advanced booking is essential, after all it is famous for a reason.
Luminate
Snuggle into your warmest jacket and muddy boots and head to Sandringham Estate for an enchanting, illuminated trail through the Royal Parkland. Discover woodland fairies, interactive light shows, sparkling disco balls and light play through the mile long journey and not forgetting a midway stop off for hot chocolate and toast your own marshmallows. Whilst not a traditional Christmas themed event, it’s the perfect atmospheric late afternoon treat to get all ages into the festive mood. Running from 20th November to 24th December 2026, it’s a popular event with both locals and visitors alike, run don’t walk to book your ticket!
Holkham
Like something from a Dickens novel, a guided tour of Holkham Hall is the perfect friends and family festive adventure. As featured on Channel 4’s ‘Christmas at Holkham’ the magnificent hall becomes a treasure trove of unique and opulent decorations, a feast for all the senses as you tour the different state rooms before heading to the Old Kitchen for mince pies and prosecco. Twinkling candlelight and atmospheric music complete the sensory treat.
Available on 29th November, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 6th, 8th, 9th & 14th December – we recommend booking in advance.
Alternatively book a self guided tour where you can take your time as you drift through the glittering state rooms, soaking in every detail. The team will be nearby if you’d like to hear the stories woven into each creation and room, but the pace is entirely yours to set. Pause for photos, linger where the lights catch your eye, and then round off your visit with a chilled glass of Prosecco and a warmly spiced mince pie in the cafe courtyard.
Running on 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 23rd December 2026.
Winter Wonderland Norwich
Discover a magical world of festive favourites at The Norfolk Showground, Norwich. Giant ice rink, Christmas tree maze, funfair rides, Santa’s wonderland, traditional festive stalls, a giant observation wheel and oodles of festive food stands, the whole family will be spoilt for choice.
Booking is recommended to avoid disappointment, open from 20th November 2026 to 3rd January 2027 excluding Christmas Day.
Burnham Market Annual Light Switch On
A postcard perfect village, straight from ‘The Holiday’, Burnham Market’s annual Christmas light switch on offers a fabulous festive start to the season. Based around the famous village green, enveloped by twinkling festoons, you will find a life-size snow globe, funfair rides, food and drink stalls, ponies, Santa’s grotto and a programme of yuletide music.
Saturday 21st November 2026.
Wells Christmas Tide Festival
Head to Wells for a chance to spot Santa Claus arriving by sea from the North Pole. Marvel at the annual Christmas light switch on usually around 4.30pm, the backing track packed with carol singers and choirs, and an array of traditional market stalls before heading to meet Santa and finishing with a spectacular fireworks display across the Quay.
Saturday 12th December 2026 in Wells-Next-The-Sea.
Christmas Markets 2026
Nothing feels more Christmassy than heading to a traditional festive fair. North Norfolk has some of the finest markets filled with local producers and suppliers, crafters, makers, creators, and demonstrators. Check out our favourite markets below:
Sandringham Christmas Craft and Food Fair
Friday 13th, Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th November 2026 at Sandringham Estate
Creake Abbey Christmas Farmers Market with gifts
Saturday 5th December 2026 at Creake Abbey
Pensthorpe Christmas Market
Sunday 29th November 2026 at Pensthorpe
Christmas Food, Drink & Gift Market
Friday 11th – Sunday 13th December 2026 at Holkham
Explore our Barefoot Christmas cottages nestled along the North Norfolk coastline for your perfect home from home with friends and family this winter.
Updated 31/10/25