There’s always something happening in and around the Norfolk Broads. From outdoor theatre and family adventures to local food markets, wildlife experiences and family days out, there are plenty of reasons to step ashore and explore.
Many events take place close to our riverside accommodation, or nearby popular cruising routes, making them easy to include in your Barnes Brinkcraft holiday. Here are some of the highlights coming up over the next few months.
What’s on in November 2026
Autumn Walk and Light Lunch at How Hill
7th November 2026
Explore the autumn colours of the How Hill gardens during a guided seasonal walk, followed by a light lunch in the welcoming surroundings of How Hill House. Places should be reserved directly with the How Hill Trust.
Low Bang Fireworks at Wroxham Barns
7th November 2026, 5pm–9pm
Enjoy a family-friendly fireworks evening at Wroxham Barns, with a low-bang display designed with younger children and those who prefer a quieter fireworks experience in mind.
There’s plenty happening before the fireworks too, including live music, a family silent disco, Adventure Play after dark, entertainers, farm animals and food trucks. The fireworks display begins at 8.30pm.
Find out more about Low Bang Fireworks
Thursford Christmas Spectacular
10th November–23rd December 2026
One of Norfolk’s biggest festive events returns for 2026. The Thursford Christmas Spectacular combines music, dancing, comedy, elaborate costumes and seasonal entertainment in a large-scale stage show.
Performances take place at 2pm and 7pm on selected dates. This popular event often books well in advance, so early reservation is strongly recommended.
Find out more about the Thursford Christmas Spectacular
Christmas Market & First Light Walk at Fairhaven
21st November 2026, 11am–8pm
Start the festive season at Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden with a Christmas Market filled with handmade gifts, decorations, local food and seasonal treats.
As the afternoon turns to evening, Fairhaven’s Christmas Lights Trail also begins, bringing the woodland to life with festive lights.
Find out more about Christmas at Fairhaven
Winter Food and Drink Market at Wroxham Barns
22nd November 2026, 10am–3pm
Discover local produce, independent traders and warming seasonal treats at Wroxham Barns’ winter market. It is a good place to find Norfolk food and drink gifts or pick up something delicious to enjoy during your break.
Family Festive Crafts at How Hill
28th November 2026
Get into the Christmas spirit with a family festive afternoon at How Hill House, with seasonal crafts, biscuit decorating and hot chocolate.
With beautiful views across the Broads and the cosy surroundings of How Hill House, it’s a lovely family activity as Christmas approaches.
What’s on in December 2026
Father Christmas at Roys of Wroxham
Selected dates throughout late November and December 2026
Santa is returning to Roys of Wroxham this Christmas. Families can wander through a magical winter woodland before reaching Santa in his festive reindeer stables.
Children can enjoy a special chat with Santa, take photos and receive their own Christmas gift to take home.
With Roys right in the heart of Hoveton, this is an easy festive outing if you’re staying with us in Wroxham.
Find out more at Roys of Wroxham
The Christmas Experience at Wroxham Barns
5th–6th, 12th–13th and 19th–22nd December 2026
Wroxham Barns transforms for Christmas with festive activities, entertainment, animal encounters and seasonal characters.
Children can enjoy a private visit to Santa and receive a special gift, with plenty more Christmas fun included throughout the day.
Find out more about The Christmas Experience
Festive Express at Bure Valley Railway
5th–6th, 12th–13th and 19th–24th December 2026
All aboard for a festive steam train journey with the Bure Valley Railway.
The Festive Express experience includes a 30-minute steam train ride from Aylsham, a visit to Santa’s grotto, a personalised present for every child and a festive snack box.
It’s a lovely family Christmas experience and pre-booking is essential.
Find out more about the Festive Express
Christmas Light Walks at Fairhaven
4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd December 2026
See Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden in a completely different light this Christmas. Follow a magical illuminated trail through the woodland, with colourful displays, fairy lights and glowing features along the way.
Finish your walk with a warming drink from the café or toast marshmallows beside the fire.
The Great Fairhaven Elf Hunt
21st November–31st December 2026
There are elves hiding around Fairhaven this Christmas! Follow the trail around the garden, find the hidden elves and solve the word puzzle along the way.
It’s a fun addition to a winter visit for families with younger children.
What’s on in January 2027
Winter Birds Walk and Lunch at How Hill
30th January 2027, 10am
Enjoy a winter morning in the Broads with a guided walk led by a member of the How Hill team.
Explore the surrounding countryside while looking for wintering birds and other seasonal wildlife, followed by lunch at How Hill House.
Make an event part of your Broads holiday
A Barnes Brinkcraft holiday gives you the freedom to enjoy the Broads at your own pace. Spend the morning cruising, moor up for lunch and then head out to a local event, family attraction or evening experience.
Some events can be reached directly or partly by boat, while others are a short drive or taxi ride from our Wroxham boatyard base. Our friendly team will be happy to help with local directions and general information during your stay.
Event dates, times and availability may change. Please check directly with the organiser and book ahead where required.