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 wonderful produce but also incredible producers. Creake Abbey hosts one of the most popular markets in the county on the first Saturday of every month.
From artisan baked goods, famous cheeses, tantalising tipples, and everything in between, this market is a must for foodies. Plus, all of our Suites have a fridge. So you won't have to worry about your treats spoiling before you leave.
Returning for it's 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!
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.
Immerse yourself in the world of renowned ceramic artist Dame Magdalene Odundo at the breathtaking exhibition held at Houghton Hall. Witness the genius of Odundo's unique sculptural vessels that draw inspiration from diverse cultures and explore diasporic identity.
With new works created exclusively for the exhibition, Odundo's pieces resonate with the human body and the natural world, offering a profound sensory experience. Don't miss the towering centerpiece, a thought-provoking ceramic sculpture adorned with a decorative scheme that highlights the legacies of slavery and contemporary political advocacy.
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.
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.
Hone your photography skills at the stunning Holkham Estate this May. Hosted by a well-regarded local photographer, Andy Langley this is the perfect opportunity to dust off your DSLR.
With a catered lunch and complimentary parking included the basics are taken care of. Fully allowing you to immerse yourself in the beautiful setting and to develop into a confident photographer.
Image: © Holkham Estate
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 everyones 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
Whether you're looking to learn a new hobby or develop your skills both beginners and intermediates will be able to learn something new with Holkham Estate's Basket Making Workshop. Guided by expert local artisan, Karen Bek, this hands-on session will give you the skills to weave wicker like a pro. All materials are provided. This means you can just turn up and enjoy the experience, guided with mindfulness and wellbeing in mind.
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.
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.
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 that the cast and crew have brought along with them.
You can also take in the wonderful food and drinks that Cromer has to offer as you can head to every snack vender available for an energy boost during the interval after being wowed during the first half of the show. This West End worthy production literally has it all!
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. 2023's acts included: Feeder, Example, Newton Falkner, Liberty X and more...
Discover the art of lino printing at Holkham Estate's beginner-friendly workshop! Whether you're new to this craft or have some experience, enjoy a supportive and easy-going atmosphere under the guidance of expert, Sue Welfare. Focus on single-colour printing while experimenting with light, shade, line, and texture. Helping you master various mark-making techniques before you create your A5-sized final masterpiece.
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
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 be able to enjoy a great selection of stalls, food and a drink from local vendors.
You won't have to travel far for this one, as it is quite literally on our doorstep. Join the residents of Old Hunstanton for a festival of fun and colour. Beautiful floral displays in St Mary's Church and at the Old Hunstanton Village Hall (inside and garden) there are lunches, refreshments, freshly baked cakes, stalls and Tombola each day. Saturday is the highlight with a Hog Roast and Music. And on Sunday, a fun dog show!
The historic town of Wells-Next-The-Sea in North Norfolk has hosted one of the parties of the summer for over 100 years, and this time it’s bigger than ever. The town is set to host a plethora of 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!
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.
There's no doubt that Norfolk has some wild and wonderful animal residents. You've probably seen plenty of deer and birdlife on your countryside walks, but now it is time to get to know some of our nocturnal neighbours. Join expert ecologist Phil Parker, on a nighttime stroll on the Holkham Estate and familiarise yourself with the bats that swoop the skies when the sun goes down. Paired with the assistance of ultrasonic bat detectors and a thermal imaging camera you'll experience a fascinating look at these spectacular creatures of the night.
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 11am to 6pm to there is plenty of time to have a great day, meet likeminded people and enjoy a great drink or two.
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
Living Heritage are back at Sandringham Estate for their latest in a string of sucessful 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.
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.
Back after a 3 year absence on 2nd April we welcome the most thrilling event in the Hunstanton social calendar. Hunstanton hosted the event for the first time in 1953 which means there is sure to be plenty of fanfare for the return of the event.
The best part? You can participate simply get in touch with the King's Lynn & West Norfolk Borough Council for more information.
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.
Challenge yourself to tackle the Sandringham 10k. With 100's of runners of all abilities expected to participate, register now to secure your place.
The course is mainly on the trails through and surrounding the estate, as well as roads that are closed to traffic. The beautiful estate is sure to make for a scenic and exhilarating run.
A brand new multi-week event is coming to the historic town of King's Lynn this Autumn. Take a bite out of King's Lynn's emerging food scene with numerous participating restaurants offering set meals for either £10 or £15.
With prices like this you'll be spoilt for choice participating restaurant 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.
This event is an absolute must for trainspotters. Channel your inner Francis Bourgeois with the North Norfolk Railway this Autumn. Enjoy non-stop travel, demonstrations and an impressive fleet of steam trains.
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.
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.
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 offer some of the finest monthly food and drink markets on the Norfolk Coast. Nestled next to the impressive Augustinian Abbey ruins, and boasting a range of charming boutique shops, farm shop 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 out skirts 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!
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 parkl and, in a spectacular display that will dazzle adults and children alike.
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.
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). Advance booking is highly recommended. Visit the North Norfolk Railway website for more information.
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 reindeers, 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.
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.
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 decorate for Christmas. Grab a mulled wine and festive treat and enjoy a charming evening stroll.
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 additional 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.
Image: © Holkham Estate
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
Who doesn't love a little Christmas magic? Ever since The Polar Express hit our movie screens becoming and 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 are offering 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 in 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.
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.