By Katie Thompson
Here in Norwich, we like to do Christmas a little differently. That goes for Christmas markets, too. Instead of just one, we have a whole host to get you in the festive spirit- 18, in fact! And since they’re spread across the season, there’s a chance for everyone to tick off that Christmas wish list and treat yourself to something special too.
The saying goes that the best gifts come in small packages, so with an offering of intimate artisan markets (if you like a theme, you’ve come to the right place!), you’ll discover local makers and twinkling venues, indulgent hot chocolate or spiced mulled wine in hand.
Dust off that Christmas jumper and get your diaries out. It’s time to plan ahead- here are the best Christmas markets in Norwich!
Why not make a weekend of it? Check out city centre stays at The Assembly House and The Maids Head Hotel
Discover local makers from across East Anglia at Norwich’s Christmas markets
With an abundance of beautiful arts and crafts from Norfolk-based artists and artisans, Norfolk Creations’ Christmas Market is a treasure trove of unique and high quality handmade pieces- making it ideal for those hard-to-buy gifts!
Explore stalls filled with exquisite handmade jewellery, beautiful photographic prints, calendars and more with Jabbawocky Crafts’ popular Christmas markets. And with dates spanning early November to late December, you know where to head for those last-minute stocking fillers.
Soak up the cosy atmosphere and shop small at Mistletoe Makers Market, where you’ll discover talented artisans, one-of-a-kind gifts and bundles of Christmas cheer! Plus, there are musical performances and seasonal decoration-making workshops to enjoy throughout the day.
Why not treat yourself to a Christmas wreath on Norwich market?
Across three (yes, three!) of The Assembly House’s grand Georgian rooms, shop original, beautifully crafted and high-quality products from local designers and makers. If that’s not enough, there will be a choir signing all your favourite festive tunes and a pianist to add a little musical flair to your day out.
Immerse yourself in the creativity and culture that thrives in this UNESCO City of Literature. Here you can grab a loved one the perfect literary gift courtesy of publishers and makers from across the region, all the while enjoying festive refreshments and fascinating talks about books and writing!
At this special, one-day-only Christmas market, find the perfect handmade gift. Whether you’re looking for ceramics, prints or jewellery, homewares and textiles all produced by talented local artisans, this is the place for a modern, handcrafted gift (including one to yourself)!
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Norwich Vegans Christmas Market is the perfect place to purchase a gift for the friend that’s eco-conscious. Come along and shop whilst supporting local businesses, animals, people and the planet at this market with a cause!
Head into the peaceful surrounds of Pensthorpe Nature Reserve for their annual Christmas market! Packed with the regio’s best food and drink, artists and makers. It’s great for bespoke creations and unique gifts before tucking into a scrumptious treat!
Holkham Hall’s Christmas market has over 60 producers of food, drink and gifts!
Packed full of Christmas cheer, the Festive Fair is one of Norwich’s busiest and most popular Christmas Markets for a reason! And this year promises to be bigger and better than ever! You can expect stalls indoors and out offering quality East Anglian-made products (from woodcraft and glassware to candles, cakes and cards), live entertainment, including a jovial brass band, tasty treats (for your furry friend too) and possibly a guest appearance from some very cute mini-donks! Are you as excited as we are?
Feliz Navidad! Norwich is known for its tasty global flavours and at Global Village Christmas Market, you can discover not only delicious food, but also gifts from around the world, focusing on fairly traded and eco-conscious products.
Clutter City Winter Market is always popular- particularly with Norwich natives! Peruse a lovely array of makers to the tune of iconic Christmas songs under twinkly lights. Here, the focus is firmly on incredibly talented creatives from across Norwich and Norfolk. Buzzing atmosphere guaranteed!
You’re sure to get in the Christmas spirit at The Cathedral of St John the Baptist’s St Nicholas Christmas Fair– with a fantastic selection of handmade gifts, children’s crafts and the promise of live music! Plus, The Garden Cafe will be serving moreish seasonal cakes and drinks and there will even be a visit from St Nicholas himself!
If you love giving gifts from the heart, head to Fierce Babe Christmas Market! And you’ll be supporting over 25 incredible indie, female-led and LGBTQ+ businesses, including illustrators, slow fashion and handmade homewares.
This brand-new market offers a curated selection of beautiful ceramics as well as functional pottery with added personality. Think hand-thrown cups, illustrated plates and playful bowls as well as breathtaking sculptural work, all thanks to the Homegrown Pottery Society. No two pieces are the same!
This Christmas market is ideal for picking up unique gifts and supporting local artists. It’s a great selection of handmade crafts straight from the designers, including artisanal products like ceramics, accessories and prints! Get to know the makers behind these beautiful creations!
The Festive Fair at The Forum is one of Norwich’s most popular Christmas markets!
Bakes and makes, treats and eats- Holkham’s Christmas Market is back for another fantastic 3 days this December. With over 60 producers to discover, immerse yourself in the festive season as you peruse stalls and chalets tempting you with food, drink and gifts.
If you can’t eat it at Christmas, when can you, eh? Treat yourself (or your nearest and dearest) to a mouthwatering selection of season products and local cuisine at Native2Norfolk Food and Drink Fair. Support our county’s vibrant culinary spirit and indulge in chutneys and preserves, beers and ciders, and bakes for every taste.
Just like the name suggests, the Jolly Holly Christmas Fair is packed with holiday cheer. You can expect a bustling event filled with independent makers selling everything from cosy knits to festive decorations. You can even craft your own Christmas keepsakes in hands-on workshops!
