Here in Norfolk, we are privileged to have a vast array of award-winning Festive Entertainment, from Kings Lynn to Cromer to Great Yarmouth and all that's in between, there really is something for everyone. Read on to find out more about the best of the best!
The Sandringham Estate is just a few minutes' drive from us here in Heacham, they have many Christmas Activities for children and adults alike from Wreath Making to Forrest Fun Days. We are really looking forward to their Luminate Festival, strolling under the stars beneath illuminated historic trees, then warm and toasting marshmallows by fire pits or indulging in festive food and drinks from Sandringham Courtyard. Follow this link for more information on all that Sandringham has to offer this Christmas.
Holkham Hall is a little further down the Coast Road, this wonderful estate is also a nature reserve and has access to one of the most beautiful beaches in Norfolk. Festive activities include a Canine Carol Service and a Willow Weaving Workshop. The highlight of their events is the Holkham Hall by Candlelight, this is a truly magical opportunity to relish the magnificent state rooms adorned with opulent Christmas decorations and beautiful flickering candlelight
Hunstanton Princess Theatre is closer to home and only a few minutes' drive from us! This year we are being treated to the brilliant 'Cinderella' This magical pantomime features Great Songs, Dazzling Dance Routines, Stunning Scenery, Beautiful Costumes and Amazing Special Effects - It will be an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.
Thursford Christmas Spectacular, this Christmas Spectacular is an extravaganza of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety. It’s a fast-moving celebration of the festive season featuring an eclectic mix of both seasonal and year-round favourites. With a cast of 130, this is the biggest Christmas show of its kind in Europe!
Cromer Pier Show, this Christmas variety show will warm your hearts and get you in the mood for the Christmas season with a whole heap of festive fun. It’s fast becoming one of the ‘must see' family Christmas shows in Norfolk, not only in production values, laugh-out-loud comedy, amazing dance routines and glitzy costumes but also as an exceedingly good value for money experience, strengthening the county’s excellent festive entertainment offering.
Hippodrome Great Yarmouth, the Christmas production of the year is described by many as a 'Norfolk tradition The Hippodrome Christmas Spectacular is one of the biggest Christmas shows in Europe and combines the festive spirit on the holiday season with the breathtaking magic of the circus. There is truly no other Christmas show like it and it provides a completely new alternative to the traditional pantomime.
Get Outdoors this Winter
The North Norfolk coast and countryside is breathtaking at any time of the year, but in winter it’s especially magical with frosty mornings, winter sunshine and vast open skies. Take a break in North Norfolk in Winter and enjoy the quiet beaches and countryside, at a time when the wildlife is at its finest.
Take a bracing walk. The north Norfolk coast is ideal for blowing away the cobwebs as well as taking in the fantastic coastline. Enjoy the vast empty beaches and huge skies. What the migrating birds at Titchmarsh. Take a walk along our miles and miles of hiking paths. Then warm up at a nearby pub with a roaring fire or independent café for a warming cup of hot chocolate.
Delve into the Deep History Coast. At West Runton, the remains of a 600,000 year old mammoth were discovered, which was the oldest mammoth skeleton to have been found in the UK. This is a great spot for fossil hunting! You can walk the Discovery Trail which covers 36km of coastline from Weybourne to Cart Gap along the clifftops of the north Norfolk coast.
Get up with the birds. Wrap up warm and head out early to watch the sunrise at around 7am and you’ll be treated to north Norfolk’s brilliant migratory birdlife – watch the birds leave their overnight roost as the sun comes up and they fly overhead in huge numbers. You get a great view if you head to RSPB Snettisham. Don't forget your camera! Oh and a flask of something warm to drink :)
Wonder at wild deer. Book up on a wild deer safari at Holkham Hall, hundreds roam the estate and woods and they are an amazing sight! Even on a stroll of the estate, you will see many deer and an assortment of wildlife, they also have great cycle paths. End your visit with a stop at their amazing cafe and take a stroll around the house itself.
See the seals. Norfolk has some of the largest seal colonies in the UK. There are thousands of incredibly cute grey seal pups born at Blakeney Point this time of year. Take a boat trip to see them safely. Horsey Gap is a lesser-known secret for seeing seals too, this is where the locals go to catch a glimpse.
From Outside to Inside
After getting out in nature and being amazed at everything we have to offer on the Norfolk Coast, Now it's time to find somewhere to get warmed up.
The White Horse Inn is gloriously situated on the marshland coastline of North Norfolk at Brancaster Staithe, an area of outstanding natural beauty, with its big blue skies, spectacular sunsets and salty sea air.
Their award-winning restaurant makes the most of shellfish from our village fisherman. Our sun-soaked restaurant and terrace overlook the lobster pots, oyster beds and saltmarshes out to Scolt Head Island and the sea beyond. This is a special spot to be enjoyed all year round with each season bringing new elements of the coast into life.
The Gin Trap is located only a stone's throw from the scenic North Norfolk coast, The Gin Trap is found in the heart of Ringstead, a charming village surrounded by the natural beauty of the English countryside right on the Peddars Way Long Distance Hiking Route. The pub itself has a characterful history of welcoming all guests since 1668, be they locals, visitors, or families with children and dogs.
The Mariner, picture yourself in a village pub with one of the most spectacular views of the sea and beach in Norfolk, looking out across The Wash. Enjoy a hearty meal here this winter!
The pub is located in Old Hunstanton which is the only village on the east coast to face west. There are low beams, snug seating and plenty of nooks and crannies to explore. Atmospheric, the pub has a fine collection of local nautical prints and regalia. You’ll also find a warm Norfolk welcome, excellent food and drink.
Old Town Beach Cafe in Hunstanton overlooks the sea and has a great menu with vast vegetarian and vegan options. This great independent cafe is the perfect place to get a full English after a bracing walk along the beach
