Christmas at Holkham & Festive Food Fair
Visitors explore the historic state rooms of the estate, each decorated around a unique theme with sweet-scented pine trees, greenery, sparkling decorations, and twinkling lights. Knowledgeable guides are on hand to share the inspiration and stories behind each festive room setting. Guests can also discover an array of locally sourced seasonal treats and gifts.
What to Expect
Historic state rooms individually themed and adorned with sweet-scented pine.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Norfolk Coast
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Holkham Hall
Food & Drink
Locally sourced seasonal treats are available, and the December 11–13 market features Norfolk food and drink from local producers.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and festive-season shoppers
Vibe
Candlelit and festive
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Parking: Free parking is included with family experience tickets on 19 and 20 December.
Tips & Advice
- Children bringing their letters to Mother and Father Christmas should come on 19 or 20 December, the family days when they can hand them over.
- If you'd rather be shown round than explore alone, book the candlelight visit on 14 December, the only date with an exclusive guided tour.
- Plan your visit for 11 to 13 December if you want to pair the decorated Hall with Christmas shopping from over 60 Norfolk producers.
- Under-2s go free on the candlelight and family dates, so babies and toddlers can come along at no extra cost.
Special Events & Promotions
- Holkham Christmas Market, 11–13 December, with over 60 local producers selling Norfolk food, drink and handcrafted gifts.
- Holkham by Candlelight on 29 November and on 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 23 December.
- Exclusive guided candlelight tour of the state rooms on 14 December only.
- Family days on 19 and 20 December with live music, characters, Mother and Father Christmas and their elves.
- Free parking is included with family experience tickets on 19 and 20 December.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What will we see inside the Hall?
Each state room is decorated with sweet-scented pine trees, greenery, sparkling decorations and twinkling lights, and every room has its own theme. Guides explain the inspiration behind each setting.
Can we go round at our own pace or with a guide?
At Holkham by Candlelight you start in the Marble Hall and then go through the state rooms at your own pace. On 14 December there is an exclusive guided tour instead. Guides are on hand on every date to share the Hall's secrets.
Is there anything just for families?
On 19 and 20 December families get a self-guided visit with live music and characters. You'll meet Mother and Father Christmas and their mischievous elves, and the Holkham team share the stories behind the decorations.
What's at the Christmas Market?
The Holkham Christmas Market runs from 11 to 13 December. Over 60 local producers sell Norfolk food, drink and handcrafted gifts.
How long does the family experience take?
The family visit on 19 and 20 December is a 45-minute walk through the Hall.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.