Make the most of your visit to the North Norfolk coast with this guide to all the best events the local area has to offer. From countryside pursuits to food festivals and the festive season. There is always something happening to pack your break full of fun activities and days out. Keep reading to find out what's on when you visit us.
Experience world-class art at Houghton Hall with the Antony Gormley exhibition, a must-see for art lovers visiting North Norfolk. Explore Gormley's visionary works that blur the lines between sculpture and space, offering a transformative journey for visitors.
Located in the heart of North West Norfolk this exhibition is a must-see for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. Immerse yourself in this transformative experience and witness the power of contemporary art
Norfolk is well regarded not only for its wonderful produce but also for its incredible producers. Creake Abbey hosts one of the most popular markets in the county on the first Saturday of every month.
This market is a must for foodies, from artisan baked goods to famous cheeses, tantalising tipples, and everything in between. Plus, all of our Suites have a fridge. So you won't have to worry about your treats spoiling before you leave.
The North Norfolk Railway operates a fleet of steam locomotives that traverse many charming towns and villages along the North Norfolk Coast. They offer not only the chance to travel in style but also an opportunity to step into the past. Enjoy non-stop travel, demonstrations and an impressive fleet of steam trains.
Get ready to capture the majestic beauty of Holkham Park's fallow deer with guidance from Andy Langley, The Norfolk Photographer. This workshop is perfect for beginners and improvers eager to enhance their animal photography skills. Under Andy's expert tutelage, you'll learn how to take stunning photographs of one of the park's most elegant residents, making for an unforgettable experience in nature's backdrop.
Image: © Holkham Hall
Dive into the heart of Halloween at Holkham's Walled Garden for an unforgettable spook-filled adventure. Dress in your strangest costumes and discover the garden's eerie transformation. Enjoy a day filled with spooky challenges, ghost sightings, Halloween crafts, and Tess the Magical Cat's magic show. Carve a pumpkin at the pumpkin patch and explore attractions like the Giant Pumpkin Patch and the Haunted Glasshouse.
Street food vendors will be available at the entrance of the Walled Garden, offering a variety of delicious options for purchase throughout the event.
Image: © Holkham Hall
This event certainly celebrates with the biggest of bangs that fill the entire picturesque skyline that North Norfolk has to offer.
This hugely popular Bonfire Night display attracts visitors from far and wide, meaning parking can get a little busy. But the best news? Cliff Farmhouse is within walking distance of the event, so you can skip the queues.
With live music and atmospheric laser shows, as well as a bonfire to keep warm, and children’s rides this is the perfect place to remember, remember, the 5th of November.
Genuinely one of the most exciting times to visit, not only is the county awash with the golden colour palette of autumn. You can sample so many fantastic local independent eateries at an unbelievable price point.
Many participating restaurants are practically on our doorstep. You'll be spoilt for choice. Check out the participating restaurants on the Norfolk Restaurant Week website.
MJR Events are bringing back their popular Artisan Fair to Fakenham Racecourse. This time with a sprinkle of Christmas magic. Showcasing over 100 of Norfolk’s finest vendors. Expect delectable food and drink as well as creative crafts. Set down the selection box and get your friends and family something they will truly treasure this Christmas.
Sandringham Estate’s Craft Fairs draw visitors from near and far, and with what is on offer it is easy to see why. Your one-stop shop for meaningful and unique gifts this festive season. This year’s fair looks to welcome over 100 vendors offering hand-crafted items, food and drink. You can also take a break from your shopping spree and enjoy live music.
Creake Abbey in North Creek offers some of the finest monthly food and drink markets on the Norfolk Coast. Nestled next to the impressive Augustinian Abbey ruins, and boasts a range of charming boutique shops, farm shops and café. You will be spoilt for choice before you even make it to the vendors, and it only gets better from there.
Located on the outskirts of Fakenham, Pensthorpe offers one of the finest family attractions for nature lovers in the country. Escape the town and city crowds with a relaxed approach to shopping in a spacious outdoor environment. With over 65 vendors, live entertainment and a visit from Father Christmas, this Christmas Market is perfect for the whole family.
The biggest draw of the festive season in Norfolk, the Thursford Christmas Spectacular brings singing, dancing, music, humour and variety into a dazzling show not to be missed. Featuring a cast of over 130 performers it is the biggest show of its kind in Europe, reflected in visitors from around the world flocking to Thursford each year to share in the experience.
Incorporating the wonder of Christmas in a lavish display of everything festive, Thursford brings you the most magical experience. The main show incorporates Christmas hits with other popular music, impressive set design and meticulous choreography in a Vegas-style production in the beautiful county of Norfolk.
Thursford is the MUST visit destination for all things Christmas in Norfolk. Running alongside the long-standing Thursford Christmas Spectacular, the Enchanted Journey of Light is a newer addition, and a spectacular one at that.
Starting your journey in Fantasyland, catch a glimpse of the North Pole with Santa's elves prepping for the big day, before progressing to the Lantern Light Extravaganza, home to illuminated creatures big and small. Don't forget to visit the vintage fairground before you leave!
Explore the spectacular Holkham Hall dressed in traditional Christmas finery this December. As featured on Channel 4’s “Christmas at Holkham”, this is sure to be a popular addition to the festive social calendar.
Enjoy gentle music while you explore each room and learn about the inspiration behind the meticulous decoration. Finishing your tour with a glass of prosecco and mince pie in the old kitchen, you’ll feel firmly embraced by the Christmas spirit. For those who would rather explore at their leisure, self-led tours are also available.
Image: © Holkham Estate
Who doesn't love a little Christmas magic? Ever since The Polar Express hit our movie screens becoming an instant festive classic we can't help but associate steam trains with Christmas. A relatively new addition to the Norfolk festive calendar, The Norfolk Lights Express hosted by the North Norfolk Railway has become a firm family favourite.
Hop aboard a vintage locomotive illuminated with thousands of colourful lights, and travel the Norfolk countryside enjoying refreshments along the way. This truly is a magical experience that the whole family can enjoy.
Luminate is a recent addition to Sandringham Estate's Autumn offering, and since its introduction, it has proven to be a highlight attraction for visitors near and far. Follow an enchanted and at times interactive light trail through the parkland, in a spectacular display that will dazzle adults and children alike.
The exhibition is paired with street food stalls, a vintage fun fair, and special extended opening times for the Sandringham Estate gift shop and cafe. Luminate, although not a Christmas-themed event, certainly offers a great way to enter the festive season.
Dalegate Market is your one stop shop for handcrafted and artisan delights. While most festive markets are a one and done kind of deal, Dalegate is bringing you pop up shops from local buisnesses select dates throughout November and December.
Let's not forget the permentant independent retailers, cafe, supermarket and FREE car parking which you can enjoy year round. Support local small buisnesses this festive season, and give a gift with a little extra love wrapped in.
Hop aboard a magical steam train with a very special guest. Head to the North Norfolk Railway this festive season for a dose of festive cheer with added Christmas sparkle. On a non-stop journey to Sheringham, sit back, enjoy the ride and keep your eyes peeled for the magical forest.
Don't forget to be on your best behaviour because Father Christmas will be visiting with a gift (and he knows if you've been naughty or nice). Booking is highly recommended. Visit the North Norfolk Railway website for more information.
Exploring beautiful country estates and grounds, stars overhead, bathed in twinkling lights. What could be more magical or romantic?
The birthplace of Anne Boelyn the hall is steeped in history. This December you can explore Blickling with a difference as the grounds are beautifully decorated for Christmas. Grab a mulled wine and a festive treat and enjoy a charming evening stroll.
Visit Wroxham Barns this festive season for a magical all-encompassing Christmas Experience. Post your letter to Santa, join the elves in the toy factory, tend to the reindeer, hop aboard the North Pole Express, and finally meet the big man himself.
Expect entertainment and wonder sure to thrill the whole family. Pre-booking is recommended.
Is it even Christmas without a family day out to the Panto? As the show starts, you can't help but get caught up in the infectious energy of the performers. From the hilarious comedy to the toe-tapping musical numbers, there's something for everyone in this production. The talented cast showcases their skills through catchy songs, wacky dance routines, and uproarious jokes, ensuring you'll be laughing and clapping along throughout the performance.
If you’re looking to sample some festive cheer this December you needn’t look much further than Holkham Estate. With a packed roster of activities and events, one of the sure highlights is the Christmas Market located in the Lady Elizabeth Wing. Check out some of Norfolk’s finest producers in a showcase of all the best seasonal fayre.
Image: © Holkham Estate
The King's Lynn Mart returns to Tuesday Market Place this February Half Term. Exsisting in one form or the other since the 13th Century, the King's Lynn Mart brings fun-filled family entertainment to the town centre to celebrate half term.
Enjoy traditional fairground rides, food stalls and games surrounded by the historic marketplace.
Take a bite out of King's Lynn's emerging food scene with numerous participating restaurants offering set meals at an affordable price point.
With prices like this you'll be spoilt for choice participating restaurants include fayre such as cocktails, traditional Afternoon Teas, juicy Burgers and Norfolk's famous Seafood. Find out more on the Discover King's Lynn website.
As Winter draws in across the nation a spectacular sight can be witnessed across select locations in the East of England. Often touted as one of the highlights of the Autumn wildlife calendar, the Pink Footed Geese migration is a must-see for bird and nature lovers alike.
After their Summer nesting period in Iceland, Pink Footed Geese begin their journey towards the British Isles. Thousands of them arrive in Norfolk, favouring nearby Holme Dunes and Cley Marshes as their Winter home. It has been suggested the Pink Footed Goose has quite the sweet tooth and is attracted to Norfolk due to the large quantities of sugar beet grown in the region.
The Hunstanton Promenade Parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9:00am. The run starts from the Salad Bowl Cafe on Cliff Parade running toward the lighthouse and back again.
Runners of all abilities are welcome. Whether you want to walk, jog, sprint or spectate it's a wonderful community event.
A great tip when you visit Norfolk is that if you come across a food and drink fair you simply have to attend. A prolific county for great produce, there's always a great meal or snack around the corner.
Head to the Lady Elizabeth Wing of Holkham Hall this April and take a bite for yourself. With local and regional producers of Ales, Cheeses, Chutneys and much more, you will be spoilt for choice. Plus with it being Easter don't forget the sweet treats too!
Image: © Holkham Estate
Perfect for lovers of equine sports, and attracting notable event riders from nationwide. The Burnham Market Horse Trials at Sussex Barns combines all the greatest hits for horse lovers. We're talking horse racing, dressage, show jumping and more with food stalls, a funfair and traders.
So dust off your best Hunter wellies and your Barbour jacket, it's time to embrace some of the finest countryside pursuits.
So this one is a little different and a lot of fun. Join the Wuffa Viking and Saxon Re-enactment Society in Sheringham for an event that is equal parts history lesson and interactive theatre. With demonstrations including a full Viking camp, battle re-enactments, culminating in a torch-lit procession and the burning of a Viking boat. Pass the mead, Skål!
This May Bank Holiday the royal Sandringham Estate welcomes back the Food, Craft and Wood Fair.
Featuring loads of stalls, demonstrations and live entertainment, there will be something for all the family to enjoy. Foodies will also love this event with plenty of food stalls and produce on sale. As well as demonstrations from celebrity chefs such as Galton Blackiston and Rosemary Shrager.
Returning for its 26th year. Folk on the Pier brings you live music from Cromer's landmark pier. 2024's acts include Show Of Hands, Sandy Denny Project, Gryphon, Joe Broughton's Conservatoire Folk Orchestra, While And Matthews, Gerry Colvin Band, Blair Dunlop Band and Many More!
Famous for its marshside views, The White Horse in Brancaster Staithe is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for seafood aficionados. This May sit back while enjoying panoramic sunset views, live music, a glass of bubbly, and a platter of quality Norfolk seafood.
Participate in engaging activities, mind-expanding talks, and curious exhibitions with something for all ages.
Are you curious about how things work? Then head to Norwich this February for a week of one off events sure to have your neurons firing. Covering topics from Psychology to Biology, there will be a topic to pique every interest.
North Norfolk is known for its seafood specialities, and you would be hard-pressed to find better in the UK than what Cromer and Sheringham have to offer.
The local fishing towns are hosting what is surely a seafood connoisseur’s heaven. There are over 35 restaurants, pubs, cafés and snack bars in the areas alone, along with street markets packed with fresh produce for you to take home.
The biggest celebration of the arts in Norfolk. Emerge yourselves in all forms of creative media from theatre, the circus, music, literature and more.
For over 2 weeks the city of Norwich will be flooded with events and productions for visitors to enjoy. To find out what's on and book tickets visit the Norfolk & Norwich Festival wesbite.
The Holkham Estate's food festivals have become a thing of legend. This May enjoy a carefully curated selection of street food stalls, serving up tasty treats to enjoy alongside your exploration of the estate.
This year's vendors include Randy's Seafood, Chim Chim Thai, The Crafty Burger Co, The Bucket List, Solar Scoops and more.
Image: © Holkham Estate
The countryside is pretty magical, no more so when the Fairy Fair sparkles into Bradmoor Woods on the West Acre Estate.
With a weekend centred around everyone's favourite childhood magical creature, this is the perfect event for the family. Expect live music, performances, food, drink, crafts and more.
Celebrate all things that fly this Whitsun at the Holkham Estate. Up, Up and Away will captivate families with falconry displays, Wild Science, Carl's Bubble Mania, storytelling and more.
Set with the backdrop of the Holkham Walled Garden there's sure to be plenty to see and enjoy.
Image: © Holkham Estate
The rumble of the galloping of hooves is rivalled only by the marching of the fashionistas that attend the Fakenham Races Ladies Day.
While enjoying the atmosphere and intensity of the races themselves, prizes are given out to the ladies with the most glamourous outfits for the event that is taking place at the Fakenham Racecourse. Be sure to dust off your best hat it's time to return to the races!
The Jolly Sailors in Brancaster Staithe are back with their annual Ale and Music Festival. Featured in The Good Beer Guide and The Good Pub Guide, The Jolly Sailors is a fantastic destination for a perfectly poured pint on the North Norfolk coast. What better way to spend Father's Day weekend than sampling quality ales, alongside foot-tapping live music?
In a brand new event for 2024, the Holkham Estate invites you to join them in the Walled Garden for a celebration of gardens. Browse and shop a wide array of plants and gardening accessories, and bring a sense of country estate to your garden.
It's not all about shopping either with guided tours of the Walled Garden and Samuel Wyatt Vinery, and expert talk from Dr Ian Bedford on how to best maintain your garden from and with the support of creepy crawlies.
You won't have to travel far for this one, as it is on our doorstep. Join the residents of Old Hunstanton as they open their gardens for you to explore. Visit the Village Hall to acquire your tickets to visit the participating gardens, and while you are there explore a range of stalls with garden-related shopping galore (entry to the hall is free). A complimentary shuttle bus is available between the Village Hall and St Mary's Church, where you'll find parking.
Hunstanton Carnival is back! After a noted absence from the Hunstanton social calendar, we are sure many will be excited for a full-on celebration in the vibrant seaside town we know and love. Featuring all the greatest hits including a parade through the town this event is sure to wrap you in the celebratory spirit.
You will also be able to enjoy live entertainment, food, drink, fun and games and more.
Hosted at the Norfolk Showground near Norwich, The Royal Norfolk Show is a massive exhibition of farming and countryside pursuits. With over 3000 animals on display and 700 trade stalls, there is loads to see. A great day out for all the family packed with activities, displays and street food.
Music festivals are one of the major highlights of the Summer. Live from Tuesday Market Place in King's Lynn. Festival Too occurs over 3 weekends of the Summer bringing live music from hit artists, for free! Not ending there, Festival Too also offers some fantastic local acts the opportunity to share the stage with recognizable faces from the industry. 2024's acts include Ocean Colour Scene, The Boo Radleys, 911, Sandi Thom, Sigala and more.
A celebration of Norfolk art and creativity, Norfolk Open Studios is a showcase of local talent, and a must see for art and Norfolk enthusiasts. Each year, artists offer a behind-the-scenes look at the spaces they create their art. Intentionally taking place in Autumn to allow visitors to experience the magical changing of the seasons that turns the countryside into a vibrant, picture-perfect landscape.
Inspired by what you see? Some artists will also be offering demonstrations and workshops allowing you to embrace your inner artist. Find out more on the Norfolk Open Studios website.
This festival isn't just about flowers; although there are plenty of stunning displays to marvel at. It's a community celebration with something for everyone. From 10 am to 4 pm daily, indulge in delicious food and drinks, with lunch available between 12 pm and 2:30 pm in the village hall. Explore stalls featuring plants, books, and treasures, or enjoy the fun with a raffle or tombola.
Don't miss the special attractions including music by 2nd Sunset, a hog roast on Saturday, the Barking Bugle dog show on Sunday afternoon, and a spirited "Songs of Praise" to close the weekend. Bring your loved ones for an unforgettable few hours of joy and fellowship.
Attracting gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers from far and wide this prestigious event is a must-attend event of the Summer for visitors to the area. Hosted on the Royal Sandringham Estate the event is frequented by members of the royal family, including the Royal Patron Prince Charles.
Visitors to the show will also enjoy a great selection of stalls, food, and drinks from local vendors.
The historic town of Wells-Next-The-Sea in North Norfolk has hosted one of the summer parties for over 100 years, and this time it’s bigger than ever. The town is set to host many events for all ages including sandcastle competitions, town crier contests, and of course float and fancy dress parades.
As a hotspot in the UK for locally sourced seafood, there will be plenty of food stalls for everyone to try, and there will even be more exotic foods at hand for the more adventurous food connoisseur. Wells-Next-The-Sea Carnival week is not to be missed!
Back for a 5th consecutive year! The wildly popular Feast in the Park at Holkham celebrates all things street food. Midweek you can expect a tasty morsel with a handful of vendors serving tasty street food. The weekends are when you can go wild. With even more vendors to sink your teeth into paired with live music.
Image: © Holkham Estate
With Run Sandringham 24 you can enjoy a scenic run through the Sandringham parkland. Taking place over a 3 day period with a large event village with camping and facilities within the Sandringham Estate, embrace the challenge of a 24-hour relay running event.
Farmed directly from the crystalline waters of Brancaster Staithe, you won't get more locally sourced than these. The White Horse is blessed to be located at the source of these tasty morsels; they know how to celebrate that fact. Enjoy sunset marshside views, fizz, cocktails, and live music all weekend.
Get into the summer feeling by experiencing all the great beers, ales, and ciders that are on offer at the Mid Norfolk Beer Festival.
Hosted at Dereham Railway Station, the annual event has over 50 products on offer to try for all who want to participate and have a great time getting merry with other connoisseurs of all things regarding hops.
Open from 11 am to 6 pm there is plenty of time to have a great day, meet like-minded people and enjoy a great drink or two.
Experience the thrill of the Hunstanton Soap Box Derby, a spectacle of creativity and engineering prowess that transforms the seaside town into a racetrack for homemade gravity racers. Participants showcase their ingenuity, racing their uniquely designed and self-built soapbox vehicles down a challenging course, thrilling crowds with their speed and dexterity. Open to teams of all ages, it's a celebration of community spirit, innovation, and good-natured competition. With categories for different age groups and awards for speed, design, and originality, it promises fun for competitors and spectators alike. Don't miss this exciting blend of sport, science, and spectacle, perfect for families and thrill-seekers.
The best part? You can participate by simply get in touch with the King's Lynn & West Norfolk Borough Council for more information.
An exclusive charity event held in the serene six-acre Walled Garden at Holkham. Benefiting the National Garden Scheme, this evening promises an enlightening stroll among flourishing horticultural wonders post-hours.
Participants will have the unique opportunity to gain insights from the estate's gardening experts, including Head Gardener Mark, and enjoy refreshments available for purchase. An array of charities, including Marie Curie and Macmillan, will benefit from the evening.
Image © Holkham Estate
Living Heritage are back at Sandringham Estate for the latest in a string of successful festivals. Join local vendors of fine goods in a showcase of countryside pursuits including falconry, gun dog displays and shire horse logging.
This one is fun for the whole family with demonstrations, activities, food, shopping and entertainment.
The sensational and award-winning Cromer Pier Show returns this summer to wow audiences with a stellar cast that includes singers, dancers, magicians, comedians, acrobats, and so much more.
This fantastic show is surrounded by a stunning seaside setting of Cromer that is made only better by the dazzling light spectacles the cast and crew have brought.
You can also take in the wonderful food and drinks that Cromer offers as you can head to every snack vendor available for an energy boost during the interval after being wowed during the first half of the show. This West End-worthy production has it all!
Officially Heritage Open Days are taking place between 9th-18th September. However, many local properties extend their offerings throughout the month. Heritage open days offer you the chance to explore and learn about historically significant locations, some that are not often open to the public.
Hunstanton Hall and Hunstanton Lighthouse will be participating, along with plenty of other locations across Norfolk. Pre-booking is often required so be sure to visit the Heritage Open Days website to find out more.
Taking place in not one, not two, but five locations across Brancaster Staithe, including The White Horse, The Jolly Sailors, Brancaster Village Hall, St Mary's Church Deepdale, and Brancaster Staithe Sailing Club. With 12 traditional Sea Shanty musicians performing in the ultimate tribute to traditional folk songs sung by sailors. This festival pay homage to coastal culture alongside being a jolly good time!
The historic North Norfolk Railway is back with one of its most iconic events. With participating stations including Sheringham, Holt, and Weybourne exhibiting vintage displays, there is plenty of nostalgia to soak up throughout the weekend.
Expect live music, military displays, food and drink in an all-out tribute to one of the most iconic periods in British history. Plus, don't forget to hop aboard the steam train for an extra dose of retro magic.
The motherload for all food and drink fanatics. Based in the idyllic setting of Holkham Estate you’ll leave this event with full bellies and your breath taken away by the sights this historic estate has to offer.
Featuring an array of stalls showcasing the very best of what Norfolk has to offer when it comes to the culinary arts, as well as entertainment involving cookery theatre and face painting for children to enjoy.
Image: © Holkham Estate
This September, delve into the splendour of horticulture at Holkham's Autumn Garden and Outdoor Living Fair. With an assembly of exhibitors, the fair showcases an exquisite collection to embellish any garden, featuring everything from bulbs and perennials to garden sculptures and handmade outdoor stoves.
Engage with expert gardeners during guided "walk and talk" tours in the walled garden or sit for a captivating talk from one of the knowledgeable exhibitors. Discover treasures from Andy Jarret Sculpture's steel garden sculptures to Black Shuck's locally crafted spirits and gin, and Leigh's Bees' honey products, among many others.
Image: © Holkham Estate