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. Welcome to the Norfolk Broads national park and Barnes Brinkcraft riverside holiday cottages!
Just 2.5 hours from London by train. The Norfolk Broads make the perfect destination for a festive getaway or New Year’s Eve short break. You even get a complimentary day boat with your holiday cottage!
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, glowing with festive charm and welcoming pubs.
For the more adventurous (or the 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 Gap and catch a glimpse of the adorable seal pups – they’re basically Norfolk’s version of Christmas elves.
The Best Selection of Christmas & New Year Cottages on the Norfolk Broads
Our riverside holiday 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 spacious holiday homes sleeping up to 16 people, ideal for large family gatherings or New Year’s Eve group getaways.
Waking up to views of the Broads, hot cocoa in hand, is the kind of Christmas magic and New Year start you just can’t find on the high street.
If you’re hunting for large cottages for New Year’s Eve in Norfolk, or last-minute festive breaks with family or friends, our Wroxham cottages offer comfort, convenience, and that all-important riverside view.
Wroxham – the Heart of 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 perfect for local gifts and handmade treats, plus, Father Christmas might just make an appearance to distract the kids while you sneak in some secret shopping.
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 and pantos for a good family laugh.
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!
Why Book a Norfolk Cottage for New Year’s Eve?
More and more people are swapping city fireworks for cosy New Year cottage breaks.
According to UK holiday trends, searches for “New Year’s Eve cottages UK”, “New Year short breaks”, and “large holiday homes for New Year” surge in December — especially in peaceful, scenic areas like Norfolk.
So whether you’re after a last-minute New Year break, a family-friendly cottage for New Year’s Eve, or a large house for a group celebration, the Broads offer the perfect mix of space, scenery, and serenity.
Booking Your Christmas or New Year Break on the Norfolk Broads
With stunning views, local festivities, and cosy cottages, your stay in the Broads National Park will be filled with warm memories.
Whether you’re spending Christmas by the fire or toasting the New Year on your balcony, there’s something for everyone — including a complimentary day boat to explore.
Booking your Christmas or New Year cottage in Norfolk has never been simpler. Give us a call and let our friendly team help make your festive getaway hassle-free.
And did we mention? We’re just 2.5 hours from London — no long drives or motorway mayhem.
🎁 Give yourself the best gift this year — a relaxing Christmas or New Year break on the Norfolk Broads.
📞 Call us on 01603 782625 or check availability online to book your Norfolk Broads New Year’s Eve holiday cottage today!
What’s on in Norfolk, Norwich, Wroxham and Hoveton for Christmas and New Year
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
Santa Special train trips in the Norfolk Broads areaThe 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.