With Christmas fast approaching it’s definitely time to start making those Christmas family plans. Whether you’re visiting the county for a winter holiday or you live locally and want to enjoy some local events, here are our suggestions for planning what things to do in North Norfolk this December.
North Norfolk naturally airs a sense of magic all year round. We’re obviously slightly biased but it is a beautiful part of the country with many places to visit. There are lots of things to do in North Norfolk at Christmas, especially towards the end of November and throughout December as we start to plan and look forward to the festive season. We’ve taken some of our local favorites and nearby ‘must visit’ events to help our guests (past and present) make their own list of fun family experiences. From lighting trails to Santa's grotto, keep reading for local insight into what’s available on your to-do list.
The Winter Light Trail will not disappoint. It really is a joy for all the senses and for attendees of all ages. As the Winter nights draw in, wrap up warm and take a trip to the Sandringham Estate—the Norfolk residence for our royal family. The enchanted journey takes place within the Royal Parkland grounds at Sandringham. Walk the mile-long trail to see well-choreographed light installations, decorations, and light-themed play activities. For some extra theatrics, the show is all set to music. The event has already started so we suggest booking your tickets fast. The last trail experience takes place on Christmas Eve. The Sandringham Estate, which is an amazing experience in itself, is approximately one hour by car from Deer’s Glade.
A light trail and panto! What’s not to love? Start your journey following The Sparkly Light Trail through woodland at BeWILDerwood. On your travels, you’ll see silly snowmen, curious Christmas crackers, and even a giant Christmas pud! Then join the curious characters of BeWILDerwood for a mini pantomime featuring Santa and reindeer with bunny ears. We’d like to see those bunny ears! How will they save Christmas before it’s too late? Find out between the dates of 2nd and 23rd December. If you do visit please share your photos as it looks super magical! BeWILDerwood is approximately a 28-minute drive from Deer’s Glade.
The beauty of a steam train illuminated by thousands of lights traveling from Sheringham to Holt and back… but that’s not all! On your journey, you’ll be met with colourful light-up dioramas set amongst the darkness of the North Norfolk countryside. All of which plays its part in an intriguing story brought to life by on-board narration and music. The Old Luggage Buffet will be open to purchase warming Christmas treats, refreshments, and a little pre-journey Christmas tipple. To reach The Norfolk Lights Express at Sheringham station where your journey commences, it’s just a 19-minute drive from Deer’s Glade.
Another gorgeous stately home offering a Christmas-themed lighting experience is Blickling Hall. Wild Winter After Dark is the Hall’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Begin the evening journeying through the magically lit walled garden, before heading to the Parterre illuminated with colour and light. Listen out for the sounds of nature as you explore, take in the natural scent of the trees in the illuminated Arboretum, and look out for tracks and footprints along the way. Delightful, magical, and one for all the family. The fun starts on the 2nd of December and runs until the 17th of December. Blickling Hall is just 11 minutes by car from Deer’s Glade.
There are so many truly Christmassy things to do in and around Norfolk this December. Here are some nearby Christmas events for even more inspiration.
Book your tickets to see The Cromer Pier Christmas Show starting on the 25th of November through to its last performances on the 30th of December. Described as a ‘delightful festive theatre experience’ The Cromer Pier Christmas Show is fun for the whole family with both matinee and evening performances. Now in its 14th year, the show is a West End musical-styled performance featuring an eight-metre special effect video wall. Plus well-known talent Olly Day is your host. The show takes place at the historic Cromer Pier, a grade two listed and 151 metre long traditional Victorian pier. A 15-minute drive from Deer’s Glade.
No Christmas is complete without meeting the big man himself in the lead-up to Christmas. Join Bakers & Larners in Holt for a Christmas-themed treasure hunt and a chance to tell Santa what’s on your Christmas list. A photo opportunity and gift are included. Book the ‘Meet Santa Experience’ here. Or enjoy pancakes with Santa and the elves, as well as magical storytelling, and games, and also meet Santa to receive a gift. Book for ‘Breakfast with Santa’ here. Bakers & Larners in Holt is a historic jewel in the market town and steeped in an impressive 250 years of history. Holt is approximately 27 minutes by car from Deer’s Glade.
All aboard the Festive Express! Launching on the 2nd of December and running through to Christmas Eve, The Bure Valley Railway offers several events throughout the festive season. The Festive Express, however, is potentially the most important. Why do you ask? Well, the last stop is to visit Santa himself! Catch a Festive Express steam train this December for a one-hour Christmas-themed journey from the Bure Valley Aylsham Station and enjoy festive treats and a visit to see Santa in his grotto. Meet Santa and receive a personalised gift. To hop aboard, the station is just an 11-minute drive from Deer’s Glade.
Follow the story of Norfolk’s last wolf pack and their secret hideaway under the flagstones at Felbrigg Hall - The Wolves of Wild Wood Hall. Walk the indoor Christmas trail and marvel at the ornate and magical festive decorations. Enjoy foraged feasts, parlour games, and children’s craft activities. Then visit the Squire’s Pantry for woodland-themed biscuits and warming hot chocolate. Felbrigg Hall is just a 14-minute drive from Deer’s Glade.
If you’re looking for a Christmas staycation in North Norfolk this December, Deer’s Glade is open throughout the Winter, including the Christmas period. Choose from our camping and caravan pitches, glamping pods, or the shepherd's hut. Prices start from £21 per night for a pitch and £75 per night to glamp. The site also includes electric hook-ups, heated pods, fire pits and there's underfloor heating in the shower blocks! For those not so keen on camping during the colder months, we're now also taking bookings for 2024!
Book your memorable holiday at Deer’s Glade Caravan & Camping Park here.