Best Christmas markets and attractions near Norfolk
There’s nothing like a festive market or family event to welcome in that Christmas feeling. And this year, you can tie in the holiday period in Norfolk with a Haven Christmas stay at Seashore. Yes, that’s right, we’re opening our doors at Christmas!
Make memories that last a lifetime with us in Norfolk this Christmas, with one of our extra special festive stays, running from mid-December. Here’s a list of the best Christmas markets in Norfolk to whet your appetite. Each market is within short driving distance of Seashore, making them all perfect for tying in with a festive Haven break.
1. Winter Wonderland Norwich
28 miles from Seashore
Where: Norfolk Showground, Dereham Rd, Norwich NR5 0TT
When: 15 November 2024 – 3 January 2025
Home to the largest ice rink outside of London, Winter Wonderland Norwich is the perfect place to soak up the festive atmosphere. One of, if not the best Christmas market in Norfolk, it has market stalls, rides and attractions for the whole family, a Santa's grotto and Santa’s wonderland. Ready to take to the ice? Make you sure you get your skates on and book early to avoid disappointment.
Winter Wonderland Norwich is a wonderful warm up for Christmas, and ties in perfectly with a festive stay at Seashore.
2. Wroxham Barns Christmas Experience, Hoveton
21 miles from Seashore
Where: Tunstead Rd, Hoveton, Norwich NR12 8QU
When: 2024 dates TBC. (In 2023 it was every weekend in December, and week running up to Christmas)
This ticketed festive extravaganza includes everything you’d expect of a Christmas market in Norfolk and much, much more. A magical day awaits, with tickets giving you access to loads of activities throughout the day.
There’s a visit to North Pole HQ, where little ones can make reindeer food, a ‘snow Olympics’ activity, and a fun-filled passport control area that welcomes everyone. You’ll get to finish the day in style with a trip to Father Christmas’ front room, where you’ll meet the man himself!
There are shops for gifts and great food on offer too, to top off a memory-making family day out. Keep an eye out for confirmed dates as this event sells out every year.
3. Christmas Circus & Water Spectacular, Hippodrome Circus
2 miles from Seashore
Where: Hippodrome Circus, St Georges Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 2EU
When: 7 December 2024 - 5 January 2025
The final performance of the year at Great Yarmouth's famous Hippodrome Circus is becoming something of a Christmas tradition, and is well worth booking tickets for during your visit. Combining spectacular circus feats with a sprinkling of Christmas spirit, last year's show involved a whopping 60 performers, pulling out all the stops to entertain the crowds with feats like the Wheel of Death.
Tickets are available to book now via their website.
4. Thursford Christmas Spectacular, Thursford
48 miles from Seashore
Where: Thursford, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 0AS
When: 8 November – 23 December 2024
Described as the UK’s (and perhaps Europe’s) biggest festive event, Thursford Christmas Spectacular is an unmissable Norfolk event. Whilst not strictly a Christmas market, it’s a must for the calendar and warms everyone in the family up perfectly for some festive cheer.
A three-hour variety performance takes the audience through a mixture of chart toppers and traditional carols, alongside dancing and comedy performances. Much of the talent is straight out of the West End, making this a quality event to put in the calendar. Buy tickets now via their website.
5. Luminate Sandringham, Sandringham Estate
64 miles from Seashore
Where: Sandringham Estate, Sandringham, Norfolk PE35 6EN
When: 21 November – 24 December 2024
A little further away, but worth the trip! See this historic Country Park as you never have before: this illuminated trail with music is a wonderful winter treat. Wrap up warm and explore the mile-long trail, with plenty of food and drink options along the way to keep you warm.
It's also home to a pop-up Christmas tree maze created from 200 recycled Norway Spruce, and you'll find fire pits perfect for toasting marshmallows round. Buy tickets now via their website.