Best places to see Santa on the Norfolk Broads
The magic of Christmas comes alive on the Norfolk Broads, where twinkling lights reflect off frosty waterways and festive cheer fills the air from enchanting boat rides with Santa to cosy grotto visits in charming Broadland villages, there are plenty of ways for families to make lasting memories this season.
Here is a look at some of the best spots to find Santa and enjoy a truly Broads-style Christmas.
Santa Cruise, Broads Tours
All aboard for festive magic on the Broads: Broads tours run a 1 hour 30 minutes Santa Cruise from their Wroxham boatyard, typically departing at 11am and 2pm.
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Children (over 3 years old) receive a gift bag (juice, activity book, festive treat) and get to visit Santa in his grotto to collect a present.
Under-3s travel at a reduced rate which is £7 and receive a gift from Santa. Adults enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a snack while festive music and entertainment set the mood as the boat cruises through the Broads. Standard ticket cost £25 per person. Please beware wheelchair users cannot be accommodated on this trip.
Bure Valley Railway, Festive Express
Hop aboard the Festive Express this December for a one-hour magical journey from Aylsham Station that includes a 30-minute steam train ride, festive refreshments and a visit to see Santa in his grotto.
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All Tickets are £26 per person (both adults and children) and babies in arms travel for free, provided they don’t require a present or refreshments.
The event runs on selected dates between 6th and 24th December, and pre-booking is essential. Each child receives a personalised gift from Santa, and guests are asked to arrive 20-30 minutes early to collect boarding passes and pre-departure treats.
Wroxham Barns
Wroxham Barns transforms into a festive wonderland each December with its much-loved Christmas Experience.
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The day includes full access to Junior Farm and the Fun Park, plus hands-on activities like decorating gingerbread with Mrs Claus, mixing reindeer food and writing letters at the North Pole Post Office.
The highlight is a private visit to Santa’s grotto, where every child chooses a gift from his toy shop using a golden coin. Tickets are priced at £35 for children, £25 for adults and £10 for under 2s (with a gift) and early booking is essential.
Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure
ROARR! Dinosaur Adventure goes into festive mode with Sparkle at ROARR! which is a magical evening event where the park transforms after dark.
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Visitors can explore illuminated trails through a glowing festive forest, enjoy seasonal entertainment, and experience the usual attractions in a twinkling new light.
The event runs from 4:30pm to 10pm, and entry is free, no booking required for Sparkle itself. For those wanting full park access earlier in the day, standard tickers apply.
Pensthorpe Natural Park
Pensthorpe’s The North Norfolk Pole Experience runs on selected dates from 29th November – 23rd December 2025, offering an hour and 30 minutes festive journey through magical stations.
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Visitors can join Santa and his elves, explore the new Elf Academy with an interactive show and graduation, make reindeer food, craft keepsakes and visit Santa’s toy shop using a golden coin for a gift.
Entry is priced £19.95 for adults, £22.95 for children aged 2+ and £11.95 for under-2s. Tickets include access to the reserve and indoor play areas. Pre-booking is strongly recommended, as the event sells out annually.
Make this Christmas one to remember and book your festive break with us to explore the very best of the Broads at the most magical time of year.
From sparkling light and magical grottoes to Santa cruises and festive farm fun, Christmas on the Norfolk Broads is full of wonder for all ages. Each experience offers its own touch of local charm, from twinkling boat rides to cosy countryside adventures, making this season truly special.
