New Year & Christmas holidays in the Norfolk Broads
Picture this: you, warm and snug, a hot drink in hand, while outside, Norfolk’s wildlife goes about its wintery business. Maybe a cheeky swan or two will give you a nod as they glide past your window. If you’re looking for a festive escape that doesn’t involve tangled Christmas lights or endless traffic jams on the M25, welcome to the Norfolk Broads – just 2.5 hours from London by train (plenty of time to finish your Christmas shopping list or simply take a well-earned nap!).
Fresh Air in Norfolk Broads over Christmas and New Year
Fancy a Frosty Adventure?
For those feeling brave enough to embrace a proper British winter (bring your big coat!), your stay includes a free day boat to explore the River Bure. Whether you’re navigating the frosty waterways or just popping over to the nearest pub for a mulled wine, the fresh air will work wonders. Plus, the boat gives you an excellent excuse to make a pit stop for some local treats.
Warm up at Woodforde’s Brewery (beer and Christmas spirit in one), or head over to the Hotel Wroxham for something a little fancier. If you fancy stretching your legs, the picturesque village of Horning is just a short boat ride away and offers more options for dining, all with that festive glow.
For the more adventurous (or slightly mad), why not take part in the Boxing Day swim at Cromer? Don’t worry, there’s always a warm pub waiting for you afterwards. Or, for a slightly less icy experience, take a stroll along the coast at Horsey and catch a glimpse of the adorable seal pups – they’re basically Norfolk’s version of Christmas elves.
The Best Selection of Christmas Cottages on the Norfolk Broads
Our riverside cottages in Wroxham are ready to welcome you with open arms (and twinkling fairy lights). Each one is decked out with a beautifully lit Christmas tree and a welcome hamper stuffed with festive goodies. Whether it’s mulled wine, bubbly, or just something sweet, we’ve got you covered from the moment you step through the door.
Our cottages range from snug hideaways to sprawling homes that can sleep up to 16 people (perfect for getting the whole clan together without arguing over who’s doing the washing up!). Waking up to views of the Broads, hot cocoa in hand, is the kind of Christmas magic you just can’t find on the high street.
Wroxham makes an ideal base for a festive cottage break
If you’ve left your Christmas shopping until the last minute (no judgment here), never fear! Roy’s of Wroxham is practically a Christmas miracle on its own. They claim you can buy everything but the kitchen sink (although we’ve heard you might find one there too!). For something a bit more unique, Wroxham Barns is great for finding local gifts – plus, Father Christmas might just make an appearance to distract the kids while you secretly pick up that ‘perfect’ gift.
Wroxham and the surrounding areas really get into the Christmas spirit, with events for the whole family. From the Santa River Cruise (Santa’s elves even provide juice boxes for the kids – it’s like they know!) to the Thursford Christmas Spectacular, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained. Fancy a bit of panto or a concert? There’s something for every taste.
And for a truly magical experience, take a ride on the North Pole Express at Wroxham Barns, where the little ones can mix reindeer food, visit Santa, and even get crafty with the elves. It’s festive fun on overdrive!
Booking your Christmas or New Year break on the Norfolk Broads
Making the Most of Your Stay
With stunning views, local festivities, and cosy cottages, your stay in the Norfolk Broads will be filled with warm memories. Whether you’re spending quality time with family, sipping something warm by the fire, or out braving the frosty air, there’s something for everyone. And if it’s not already on your bucket list, well, it should be!
Booking your Christmas or New Year’s break has never been simpler – and for those who like to plan ahead, give us a ring and let us help you make your holiday hassle-free. Did we mention we’re just 2.5 hours from London by train? Yep, no long drives or motorway mayhem. It’s basically the ultimate festive getaway without the stress.
So, why not give yourself the best gift of all – a relaxing Christmas on the Broads? Check availability and book your riverside cottage today!
For more details, or if you need a little extra help choosing the perfect cottage, give us a call at 01603 782625.
Check availability and book your festive Norfolk Broads escape here!
Contact Us For more details please ring 01603 782625
We have 15 individual holiday homes. The largest sleeps nine people with a mix of twin and double rooms. The smallest sleep 4. All have riverside access for fishing.
Some of the apartments can be linked together (via a door between the properties), which makes it possible to sleep 16 under one roof.
Check out this selection of waterside Christmas cottages at Wroxham on the Norfolk Broads.
And here is a little detail to help you plan for your family Christmas and New Year
Shopping
Local
Roys of Wroxham.
Yes, we know it is in Hoveton … but this is Norfolk! And whilst the kitchen sink is missing, not much else is, and you may find it in Roys DIY just up the road … just in case you need more fairy lights.
Wroxham Barns-Rumour has it that the whole family can meet Father Christmas in person and feed the reindeer this year (It’s also great for picking up some special from a real range of talented artists, and passionate retailers on site)
Christmas Family Magic at nearby Wroxham Barns
Hop on an enchanting train ride to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus himself. Get lost in a world of wonder as you journey through twinkling lights, snowy landscapes and festive cheer on your way to magical destinations, including:
– The North Pole Express – take an extraordinary journey to meet Santa himself
– Santa’s Grotto – each family will get a personal experience with Santa
– The Mrs. Claus Show – an all-singing, all-dancing show on the hour, every hour
– Reindeer HQ – mix your own magical reindeer food
– The North Pole Post Office – with the help of the elves, children can write their letter to Santa
– The Elves Workshop – get crafty and make a wonderful keepsake for home
– Santa’s Toy Factory – is packed with toys for all ages. Children can pick a gift of their choice.
Every family will get some special time to spend with Santa Claus, with each child given a very special gold coin to spend in Santa’s Toy Factory.
Advanced booking is highly recommended; more details
Santa Special train trips in the Norfolk Broads area
The nearest of these is operated by the Bure Valley Railway, with a station on the outskirts of Wroxham. Please note the Festive Express starts at Alysham station, about a 25-minute drive from Wroxham.
A little further away, the North Norfolk Railway, a heritage railway based at Sheringham, has two festive rides, the Lights Express and their Santa Specials.
Advanced online booking is recommended.