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- 20, 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, from global to local (if you like a theme, you’ve come to the right place!), you’ll discover our very own creatives, 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
It’s never too early to get organised, right? At the Goat Shed’s Christmas Shed (celebrating its fifth year!), step inside a festive wonderland where a brilliant selection of Christmas chalet-style stalls and displays await you. Found on the farm shop’s second floor (and accessible via lift), the Christmas Shed is filled with twinkling decorations, cosy candles, thoughtful gifts and festive tipples.
While You’re Here: Take a look around the Goat Shed’s incredible deli! It’s brimming with local treats and eats, perfect for indulging this festive season.
Set within the cosy interior of Norwich’s independent department store, Jarrolds’ Store Folk Christmas Market features some of Norfolk’s finest local artisans and producers. Offering a diverse range of high-quality, locally produced goods, you’re sure to discover unique gifts, artisanal crafts, and gourmet delights—all while supporting local businesses.
Whilst you’re here: Stop by one of Jarrolds’ many stylish restaurants for a well-deserved treat- why not enjoy a seafood sharing board overlooking the twinkling lights of Norwich Market at The Bay Seafood & Wine Bar?
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.
While You’re Here: Start the countdown to Christmas with Norwich’s festive light switch on (20 November). It’s always a buzzing evening, bringing people together with the promise of music, entertainment and sparkle!
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!
While You’re Here: Discover the story of Julian of Norwich- the first woman to be published in English with her book ‘Revelations of Divine Love’– at the nearby Julian Shrine.
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)!
And if you want to get ahead with your Christmas shopping, check out the Festive Local Makers Market at The Shoe Factory Social Club (Saturday 8 November, 10am – 4pm, FREE). Each maker is handpicked to curate the very best local, modern craft!
While You’re Here: Norwich Cathedral is a magical building, even more so at Christmas. At Christmas at the Movies by Candlelight immerse yourself in the heartwarming and hilarious soundtracks of timeless films from London Concertante– from White Christmas to Elf!
Why not treat yourself to a Christmas wreath on Norwich market?
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!
While You’re Here: After all that shopping, you’ll have worked up an appetite! Book a table at Namaste Village for an undeniably delicious (and 100% vegan and vegetarian) traditional Indian meal.
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!
While You’re Here: Pensthorpe is a day out for all the family, so gather your nearest and dearest and discover the wild beauty of this 700-acre nature reserve. Or get in there early and book a space on their interactive North Norfolk Pole Experience!
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?
While You’re Here: Make a day of it and tuck into a tasty roast dinner at Middletons. Think succulent meats, crispy potatoes and creamy cauliflower cheese smothered in rich gravy- yum!
If you’re on the hunt for independent gifts with a burst of colour and personality, get the Museum of Norwich’s Festive Frolic Pop-Up Shoppe in your diary! In collaboration with local artists Petra Boase and Many Doubt, the museum’s traditional corner shop will be packed to the rafters with funky, festive fare. You can expect eye-catching decorations, prints, tea towels and more. It’s particularly perfect for wrapping paper, cards and stocking fillers like stickers, totes and badges!
While You’re Here: Bridewell Alley is a wonderful spot for independent shopping. Make sure to check of the Museum of Norwich’s museum shop before popping into Atwin opposite for more local makers and sustainably crafted clothing, homeware, prints and accessories!
Wander through ROARR!’s charming Christmas market, packed with handmade gifts, festive crafts, and seasonal treats. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect stocking filler or something special for a loved one, soak up the seasonal atmosphere and browse at your leisure. This is a great experience for after work and school or whether you love twinkly lights under the night sky!
While You’re Here: There’s so much more to see and do at Sparkle at ROARR! Taste a bite of seasonal street food and toast gooey marshmallows over the fire pit, before checking out the present room or buying a ticket for Father Christmas’ grotto!
Holkham Hall’s Christmas market has over 60 producers of food, drink and gifts!
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.
While You’re Here: As the sun sets, embrace the darker evenings with a wintry walk beneath twinkling lights, using the Christmas Crown Trail as your guide. From The Forum to Hay Hill, Norwich Market to the Lanes, add a little sparkle and see the city’s best festive displays!
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!
While You’re Here: Take a stroll to nearby Slice + Dice, where you can settle in for a fun-filled evening of board games and moreish food! Or for an extra special treat, try Benedicts for festive fine dining.
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!
While You’re Here: Next door, step into the peaceful surrounds of The Plantation Garden. Breathe in the crisp winter air and wander woodland trails.
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.
While You’re Here: Start off December right- with a trip to the panto. Oh yes you should! And this year, Norwich Theatre is putting on all-time classic Cinderella (from £10)– a magical fairytale full of singing, dancing, and laughter!
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!
While You’re Here: For more one-of-a-kind gifts, including textiles, jewellery and homeware, discover The South Asia Collection’s Country & Eastern shop.
The Festive Fair at The Forum is one of Norwich’s most popular Christmas markets!
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!
While You’re Here: Make your way to Norwich’s smallest bar – Sir Toby’s Beers on Norwich Market. People watch as you sip an authentic Glühwein (with or without an extra slug of brandy or rum)!
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.
While You’re Here: Immerse yourself in the wonder of Holkham by Candlelight on an unforgettably festive tour.
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!
While You’re Here: See how many Christmas trees you can find at Castle Quarter’s Community Christmas Trail– there are over 20 decorated by local charities, schools and groups!
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.
While You’re Here: If you’ve got room for dessert, head to Cafe Gelato for a creamy scoop of mince pie or panettone gelato!
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!
While You’re Here: Take the Christmassy excitement up a notch with a seat at WinePress at the Maids Head for their magical Traditional Choir Sunday Lunch– expect all your favourite carols!
Join Redwell Brewery for a fun and festive afternoon at their Christmas Market! Set outside in their large beer garden- in cosy heated marquees, there will be over 15 locals stalls to browse, each one brimming with crafts, art, bakes and one-of-a-kind gifts! Plus, you can treat yourself to a warming glass of mulled wine, flaky sausage roll and freshly baked mince pie while you shop.
While You’re Here: Enjoy a stroll around the lake at Whitlingham Broad and work up an appetite for a well-deserved roast at Redwell Brewery from The Giant Yorkie Co. – surely the Yorkshire’s the best bit? (Booking recommended!)
It’s not hard to find a lovely handmade gift at Norwich’s many Christmas markets!
Celebrating its 25th year in 2025, the Norfolk Festive Gift & Food Show is back and bigger than ever this November! Across three days, you can discover a fantastic selection of stalls, with the packed exhibition hall, Christmas barns, marquee and outside area showcasing gifts, decorations, handmade crafts, food and drink and more- whether you’re looking for a hamper or a stocking fillers. You’ll need that time to explore it all!
While You’re Here: After all that shopping, you’ll be in need of some energy! Treat yourself to a delicious festive afternoon tea at Barnham Broom– you can expect traditional classics with seasonal flair.
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.
While You’re Here: Why not tick a few more off that Christmas list? Head to Chantry Place for all your high street heroes, where you can find an array of gifts no matter what they’re interested in!
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.
While You’re Here: Make your time at The Assembly House truly special and book a table for their festive afternoon tea (£32.50). It’s three tiers of towering treats- from moreish sandwiches to mouthwatering scones to perfect patisserie.
