Where to see Christmas lights in North Norfolk (2025)
September 30, 2025 | Holiday tips | 15 minute read
One of the best ways to get into the festive spirit is to wander surrounded by the sparkling of Christmas lights. North Norfolk may be best known for its beaches (and rightly so!), but come December, our coastal towns and attractions become a softly glowing wonderland. Here are some of the best places to see Christmas lights in North Norfolk in 2025, plus some tips on how best to enjoy your festive break by the sea.
Christmas light trails and attractions
No Norfolk Christmas is complete without experiencing a magical light trail or visit to a stately home lit up and decked for the festive period. We’d recommend booking tickets to these events in advance to avoid disappointment.
Holkham Hall by Candlelight
Holkham Hall by Candlelight is back from late November, with the state rooms impressively adorned in wonderful and unique ways! Expect light, colour, art, and to be amazed by the creativity and magic that comes alive in each room.
Holkham are also hosting a number of other exciting festive events, including their Christmas Market, Canine Carols, Carols in the Courtyard and more. See all Christmas events at Holkham here.
North Norfolk Railway’s Norfolk Lights Express
See the side of the railway line between Holt and Sheringham lit up as you trundle by on an old steam train! With several light installations along the route and on-board narration, you’ll learn the 50 year history of the railway as you take in the sights on this enchanted journey.
Taking place from the middle of November until early January.
Blickling Hall’s Garden of Lights
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This National Trust property near Aylsham is hosting their Garden of Lights on selected dates in December.
See the landscape lit in unique ways with colour and sound working together to create an impressive display, set against the backdrop of Blickling Hall.
Warm up with mulled wine and tuck into seasonal snacks and treats.
Luminate at Sandringham
This outdoor trail returns from mid-November until Christmas Eve and is a celebration of light and festivities. Enjoy an illuminated trail as you explore the country park in the winter darkness, then toast marshmallows or a drink or two in the courtyard.
Note this is completely outside, so wrap up for the weather!
Towns and villages with the light displays
If you like to see lights while out and about or enjoy a drive through the streets spotting your favourites, here are some of the towns and villages in North Norfolk with the best Christmas light displays (and they’re free to see!).
Wells-next-the-Sea
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Our own neighbourhood is full of festive spirit. Wander along the quayside, see the lights up Staithe Street, and enjoy a spot of shopping or dinner and drinks in Wells’ fantastic pubs and restaurants.
If you love festivities, we recommend coming to Wells for the Wells Christmas Tide Festival, taking place on Saturday 22nd November 2025. This is a fabulous annual event loved by locals and visitors, with entertainment, food, the arrival of Father Christmas by boat, the switching on of the Christmas lights and fireworks too!
Holt
Holt is home to one of Norfolk’s most famous Christmas displays. Streets and shops are decorated with twinkling lights — the perfect backdrop to some Christmas shopping!
Burnham Market
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Burnham Market’s streets and storefronts will be filled with glowing lights, and it’s always beautiful to see! Enjoy a mooch in the independent shops and boutiques or a coffee at a café before dark, then take in the sights of the lights.
Cromer and Sheringham
A slight drive away, these lovely coastal towns often carry their festive cheer right to the seafront, with illuminated promenades, Cromer pier, and themed light displays. There are plenty of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants to enjoy in both towns, so they’re well worth a visit.
Enjoy a festive break
Book something a bit different and enjoy a festive break by the sea! Here’s what else you could get up to during your stay:
Cosy comfort food
After exploring illuminated streets, unwind in local pubs or restaurants, many of which offer seasonal menus, mulled wine or fire-side seating for that perfect cosy, festive feeling. Take a look at our favourite foodie spots here.
Combine with shopping and crafts
Use the daylight hours for Christmas markets, local shops, artisan stalls, galleries, and crafts, then as darkness falls, wander the same roads under the atmospheric lights!
Stay by the coast
Most towns in the UK have Christmas decorations, but not everywhere can offer festive lights by night and beach walks in the daytime! Make the most of near-empty beaches and wonderful wildlife this time of year and create new merry memories and traditions on the coast.
Why stay at Pinewoods this festive period?
Cosy, comfortable and close to the coast and Christmas fun!
Our caravans and lodges are located right by the coast and within easy reach of Holt, Wells, Burnham and the other towns and attractions we’ve mentioned. Trust us — you’ll never be far from the magic.
Space for families and groups
With space for up to 6–8 people per caravan holiday home, you can enjoy a festive break gathered under one roof.
Bring Santa Paws!
Many guests want to bring their four-legged companions on holiday, and you can! With many of our luxury lodges and caravan holiday homes welcoming up to two dogs, there’s no need to leave them behind. Check our availability for your dates and let us know how many dogs you’ll be bringing.
Norfolk Christmas lights FAQs
When do Christmas lights go up in North Norfolk?
Most towns switch on their lights in mid- to late November, often with an evening event. They’ll stay lit until early January.
In Wells, the lights will be switched on on Saturday 22nd November 2025 as part of Wells Christmas Tide Festival. It’s a superb event!
Are there Christmas markets in North Norfolk?
Yes, there are several, so no excuses for delaying your Christmas shopping! Take a look at our compiled list here.
What’s the best Christmas light trail in North Norfolk?
It depends on what you prefer: Holt is strong for street displays, while Holkham Hall by Candlelight is a wonderful indoor experience. If you’re staying with us, enjoy a few throughout your holiday.
Why make your Christmas light trip a day visit when it could be the start of a festive escape? Stay with us at Pinewoods in one of our cosy, dog friendly caravans or lodges, within easy reach of the best light displays on the Norfolk coast. Check availability now and let the festivities commence!
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