10 things to do during winter in North Norfolk
September 19, 2025 | Holiday tips | 11 minute read
Winter is a magical time to enjoy a break in North Norfolk. The air is crisp, the beaches are wild and peaceful, and the wildlife is arguably at its most spectacular. Whether you’re here for a short escape or a longer holiday, there’s plenty to see and do — from bracing coastal walks and wildlife watching to cosy pub lunches and browsing independent shops.
If you’re still looking for somewhere to stay, Pinewoods Holiday Park in Wells-next-the-Sea is perfectly placed for a winter getaway. With a choice of luxury lodges and modern caravan holiday homes, we’d love to welcome you to Wells this winter. We’re open until early January.
10 great things to do in North Norfolk during winter
Wrap up warm and get out there! Here are some of our favourite ways to enjoy winter in Wells-next-the-Sea and along the North Norfolk coast.
1. Take bracing walks on deserted beaches
The vast sands of Wells and Holkham are breathtaking at any time of year, but in winter you may find you have them almost to yourself. Feel the cool sea breeze on your face, and enjoy the dramatic skies as you wander across the sand. Afterwards, reward yourself with a steaming coffee or hot chocolate from Wells Beach Café. There are so many fantastic coastal and countryside walks in Norfolk — here are some of our top picks.
2. See the seal pups at Blakeney Point
One of Norfolk’s winter highlights is the grey seal pupping season. Between late October and January, thousands of pups are born along the coast, particularly at Blakeney Point, home to England’s largest grey seal colony! Take a boat trip from Morston to Blakeney Point and see how many pups you can spot.
Find out more about seal spotting in Norfolk here.
3. Be wowed by the winter birdlife
North Norfolk is renowned for birdwatching, and winter is perhaps the best season as we welcome over-wintering flocks. Tens of thousands of pink-footed geese arrive from Iceland and Greenland, filling the skies at dawn and dusk. You’re sure to see them, and you’ll definitely hear them! Lapwings flock to the marshes from the continent each winter from Europe, alongside Wigeon and Teal. Top reserves in North Norfolk include Holkham National Nature Reserve, Cley Marshes and RSPB Titchwell.
4. Enjoy a cosy pub lunch by the fire
There’s nothing quite like coming in from a frosty walk and warming up with a hearty meal! North Norfolk is full of welcoming pubs and restaurants serving local, seasonal food, and plenty have a roaring fire to really keep you toasty.
The Victoria sits on the coast road at Holkham, with views over the marshes, and is the perfect spot for lunch if you’re enjoying a walk along Holkham Beach, in the nature reserve, or visiting Holkham Hall. With a wonderful winter menu planned, we’d highly recommend!
See more of our favourite places to eat here, or check out this post focused on dog friendly dining if you’re bringing your pup(s)!
5. Explore heritage houses and gardens
North Norfolk’s stately homes remain wonderful destinations in winter when many re-open, adorned with decorations for Christmas.
Holkham Hall, Blickling, Felbrigg and Sandringham open for festive tours from late November.
Their grounds and parklands are perfect for a brisk stroll followed by tea and cake in the café.
Find out more about Christmas attractions, events and festive fun in North Norfolk here.
6. Browse market towns and independent shops
Exploring Norfolk’s charming towns and villages is a perfect activity in the winter, when you might relish the opportunity to dive indoors if the weather isn’t great! Wells-next-the-Sea, Holt, Burnham Market and Aylsham are full of independent shops, galleries and delis that are worth exploring, and the shop fronts will most certainly be dressed up for the festive season.
7. Watch a winter sunset — then stargaze
Winter sunsets come early, but they are spectacular over North Norfolk’s “big skies.” Fiery shades of pink, orange and purple light up the horizon over the marshes and beaches. When darkness falls, you’ll find some of the clearest night skies in the UK, thanks to low light pollution. On crisp nights, wrap up and look out for the Milky Way, constellations — and occasionally the Northern Lights.
8. Head to a Christmas market
We’ve tried to keep this post about winter rather than Christmas — we’ve a whole other guide to festive events and things to do here — but we can’t list things to do during winter without a nod to the fabulous festive markets that fill the North Norfolk calendar this time of year.
If you’re visiting the region in the run up to Christmas, consider going to one of these fantastic markets or fairs:
Holt Market – Sunday 16th November and Sunday 3rd December 2025
Creake Abbey Christmas Gift Fair – Saturday 22nd November 2025
Pensthorpe Christmas Market – Sunday 23rd November 2025
Holkham Christmas Market – Friday 12th-Sunday 14th December 2025
Pick up some Christmas shopping or treat yourself!
9. Relax a while in a coffee shop
Holidays are about relaxation and rest. While sunbathing on the beach might not be part of the plan this winter, you can still cosy up with a good book.
Shelter from the rain or cold in one of the wonderful independent coffee shops or cafés that are dotted along the North Norfolk coast — there are plenty to choose from! Indulge with a hot chocolate, munch on a pastry or tuck into a slice of cake while you enjoy a chapter or two, a crossword, people watching, or a natter with your friend.
Some popular spots near us include:
- Wells Beach Café (Wells)
- Wells Deli (Wells)
- Wills of Wells (pictured) (Wells)
- Two Magpies Bakery (Wells, Blakeney and Holt)
- Folks Coffee (Blakeney and Holt)
- Binham Parlour (Binham)
10. Indoor escapes on chilly days
If the weather turns, there’s still plenty to do indoors. Wells Maltings offers films, exhibitions and live performances, or there are a number of museums across the county covering a whole host of interests! Or simply cosy up in your Pinewoods lodge or caravan with a book and watch the winter weather roll in…
Winter in North Norfolk — FAQs
Is winter a good time to visit North Norfolk?
Absolutely! Winter is a quieter season, but that only adds to the charm. The beaches are peaceful, wildlife is thriving, and there’s a cosy, welcoming feel in the pubs and cafés. Plus, you’ll see the villages and towns twinkling under festive lights!
What are the best things to do on a cold or rainy day?
If the weather outside is frightful, opt for indoor attractions such as Holkham Hall or another stately home, Wells Maltings, or a museum. Alternatively, grab your book or magazine and simply relax in one of North Norfolk’s excellent cafés or pubs.
Can you see seals in Norfolk in December?
Yes, in fact, December is pupping season for the grey seal colony at Blakeney Point, so wrap up warm and enjoy a boat trip!
Is Norfolk good for stargazing in winter?
It is! North Norfolk has very low light pollution, making it one of the best places in the UK for stargazing. On clear winter nights, the skies are often breathtaking, and there have been several sightings of the aurora borealis from Wells-next-the-Sea.
Do you offer winter stays at Pinewoods?
Yes, Pinewoods Holiday Park is open for winter breaks in our lovely lodges and our caravan holiday homes. The touring park is closed at this time of year. We’d love to see you this winter, so take a look at our accommodation options here or check availability for your desired dates here.
