Things to Do in Norfolk in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Norfolk

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Christmas markets in Norwich, King's Lynn, and Great Yarmouth create magical atmosphere with local crafts, mulled wine, and traditional Norfolk foods like samphire pickles
Lowest accommodation prices of the year - boutique hotels 40-60% cheaper than summer, B&Bs from £45-65 per night instead of £120+
Zero crowds at major attractions - you'll have Holkham Beach, Blickling Estate, and Norfolk Broads virtually to yourself for photos
Authentic local life experience - pubs are cozy gathering spots, locals are more talkative, and you'll see Norfolk as residents actually live it

Considerations

Many coastal attractions, boat tours, and outdoor activity centers close completely from mid-December through February
Daylight limited to 7.5 hours (8:00am-3:30pm), severely restricting sightseeing time and outdoor photography
Frequent rain and 50+ mph (80+ km/h) winds off the North Sea make beach walks uncomfortable and coastal drives hazardous

Best Activities in December

Historic House and Castle Tours

December transforms Norfolk's grand estates into festive wonderlands. Blickling Estate, Oxburgh Hall, and Norwich Castle deck halls with Victorian Christmas displays. Indoor warmth, fewer visitors, and special seasonal exhibitions make this perfect timing. Many offer guided tours with warming fires and seasonal refreshments.

Booking Tip: Book directly with National Trust or English Heritage 2-3 weeks ahead for Christmas special events. Standard admission £12-18 for adults, family passes £35-45. Many include free return visits within 12 months. Check current seasonal tours in booking section below.

Christmas Market and Festival Tours

Norfolk's Christmas markets capture authentic British holiday spirit without London crowds. Norwich Cathedral Christmas Market (first two weekends) features local artisans, while King's Lynn's Tuesday Market Place hosts weekly festive markets. Perfect for finding unique Norfolk gifts like samphire products, local honey, and handcrafted items.

Booking Tip: Most markets are free entry, but organized Christmas market tours cost £25-45 including transport between venues and market vouchers. Book through local tour operators or see current options in booking section below. Markets typically run weekends only in December.

Traditional Pub and Brewery Experiences

December is prime pub season in Norfolk - crackling fires, seasonal ales, and hearty warming meals. Many pubs offer special Christmas menus featuring local Norfolk turkey, winter vegetables, and traditional puddings. Brewery tours at Woodforde's and other local breweries often include seasonal beer tastings and are perfect rainy day activities.

Booking Tip: Brewery tours typically £15-25 including tastings, book 1-2 weeks ahead as groups are smaller in winter. Many pubs don't take bookings but avoid 12:30-2:00pm lunch rush. See current brewery experiences in booking section below.

Cathedral and Religious Heritage Tours

Norwich Cathedral and other historic churches offer special Advent and Christmas services, plus architectural tours without summer crowds. The cathedral's Christmas tree festival and carol services provide authentic British Christmas experiences. Many churches host concerts and special exhibitions during December.

Booking Tip: Cathedral tours £8-12, often combined with city walking tours for £18-25. Special Christmas events may require advance booking. Check cathedral websites or current guided tours in booking section below. Dress warmly as historic buildings are minimally heated.

Indoor Museum and Gallery Exploration

December weather makes Norfolk's excellent museums ideal. Time and Tide Museum in Great Yarmouth, Norwich Castle Museum, and Sainsbury Centre offer world-class collections with winter comfort. Many feature special Christmas exhibitions and activities, plus museum cafes provide perfect warm-up spots.

Booking Tip: Museum passes typically £8-15, many offer combined tickets saving 20-30%. Great for rainy days as most have 3-4 hours of content plus cafes. Some offer guided tours - check current museum experiences in booking section below.

Traditional Shopping and Antique Hunting

Norwich Lanes, Holt's Georgian streets, and market towns like Burnham Market offer unique shopping in cozy indoor spaces. December brings special Christmas displays and many antique shops have seasonal sales. Perfect activity for avoiding wind and rain while finding authentic Norfolk crafts and vintage items.

Booking Tip: Free activity, but guided shopping tours of Norwich Lanes or antique hunting experiences cost £20-35 including expert guidance and shop discounts. Most shops close by 5pm in December. See current shopping tours in booking section below.

December Events & Festivals

Early to mid December

Norwich Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival

Over 100 decorated trees fill the cathedral nave, each sponsored by local organizations with unique themes. Free entry with stunning photography opportunities and daily carol services at 5:15pm. The cathedral shop offers unique Christmas items and the refectory serves seasonal treats.

Mid December weekend

Dickensian Christmas Festival Norwich

Elm Hill and surrounding medieval streets transform into Victorian Christmas scenes with costumed characters, street performers, and traditional crafts demonstrations. Local shops offer mulled wine and mince pies, while carol singers perform throughout the cobbled streets.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof jacket with hood rated for 50+ mph (80+ km/h) winds - cheap umbrellas break instantly in Norfolk coastal winds

Waterproof hiking boots or wellies - pavements stay wet and muddy, especially around countryside attractions and beach car parks

Warm layers including fleece or wool jumper - most historic buildings have minimal heating and feel colder than 2°C (36°F) suggests

Insulated gloves and warm hat - wind chill off North Sea makes it feel 5-7°C (9-13°F) colder than actual temperature

Small daypack with waterproof cover for carrying extra layers and keeping electronics dry during sudden downpours

Thick socks and spare pair - feet get wet easily walking on wet grass and muddy paths at outdoor attractions

Portable phone charger/power bank - cold weather drains batteries faster and you'll rely on phone for indoor activity options

Casual smart clothes for pub dinners and any special Christmas events - Norfolk locals dress up slightly for evening meals

Insider Knowledge

Many coastal attractions like Cromer Pier shows and beach activities shut down completely in December - check opening hours before planning itineraries to avoid disappointment

Pub kitchens often close 2:30-6:00pm between lunch and dinner service, leaving limited food options in small villages during afternoon touring

Norfolk's famous beaches are spectacular but brutal in December winds - visit for 15-20 minutes maximum for photos then retreat to warm car or café

Local buses reduce frequency in December and some rural routes stop completely on Sundays - rent a car or book accommodation near attractions you want to visit