What's on in the Norfolk Broads
There’s always something happening in and around the Norfolk Broads. From outdoor theatre and family adventures to local food markets, wildlife experiences and family days out, there are plenty of reasons to step ashore and explore.
Many events take place close to our riverside accommodation, or nearby popular cruising routes, making them easy to include in your Barnes Brinkcraft holiday. Here are some of the highlights coming up over the next few months.
What’s on in August 2026
Summer at Wroxham Barns
Until 2nd September 2026, 10am–5pm
Enjoy a full day of family entertainment at Wroxham Barns, including a Toy Takeover, Splash Zone, animal encounters, adventure play and a giant maize maze.
The shops, studios and places to eat are also open, so there is plenty for grown-ups to enjoy while younger visitors explore the Adventure Farm.
Summer Food and Drink Market at Wroxham Barns
23rd August 2026, 10am–3pm
Browse stalls from independent food and drink traders and discover locally produced treats to enjoy during your holiday. It is a lovely opportunity to pick up something special for dinner on board or a few Norfolk goodies to take home.
Find out more about the market
Twelfth Night at How Hill
23rd August 2026
The Pantaloons bring their lively outdoor production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night to the beautiful surroundings of How Hill. Expect mistaken identities, comedy and plenty of theatrical mayhem.
How Hill sits beside the River Ant and is a particularly lovely place to visit while exploring the Broads. Tickets should be booked directly with the How Hill Trust.
BeWILDerfest at BeWILDerwood
Until 1st September 2026
Head into the woods for music, storytelling and plenty of imaginative family fun. BeWILDerfest includes new stories brought to life with music, an interactive Flower Power Trail and all the usual treehouses, slides, bridges and woodland adventures.
BeWILDerwood is close to Wroxham and makes a brilliant day out for families staying on one of our boats or in a riverside cottage. Advance booking is recommended.
Find out more about BeWILDerfest
What’s on in September 2026
Sound Bath Evening at Salhouse Broad
8th September 2026
Relax beside the water as the evening sun begins to set. This outdoor sound experience offers the chance to pause, unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Salhouse Broad.
Salhouse Broad is easily reached by boat from our Wroxham yard, with mooring available at the Broad. Booking is required directly with the event organiser.
Biofluorescence Walks at Salhouse Broad
7th and 30th September 2026
Discover a side of the natural world that is usually hidden from view. Using special ultraviolet torches and protective glasses, these guided evening walks reveal the fascinating biofluorescent colours found in plants, fungi and other parts of the landscape.
The walks are suitable for adults and children aged eight and over. Spaces are limited and advance booking is essential.
Twiggle Tots at BeWILDerwood
4th, 11th, 18th and 25th September 2026
These selected weekday sessions are designed especially for preschool children and their grown-ups. Families can enjoy the woodland play areas and imaginative BeWILDerwood experience at a quieter time of year, with a special ticket available for one adult and one preschooler.
View upcoming BeWILDerwood events
Classic Car Show and Makers Market at Wroxham Barns
6th September 2026
Wroxham Barns will welcome a collection of classic cars alongside its September Makers Market. Browse handmade products from local craftspeople, admire the vehicles and enjoy the shops, studios and cafés around the site.
Everything Goes Weekend at the Bure Valley Railway
26th–27th September 2026
See the Bure Valley Railway’s full fleet in action during this special two-day event. The narrow-gauge railway runs between Wroxham and Aylsham, travelling through the Norfolk countryside along the picturesque Bure Valley.
Wroxham Station is close to our boatyard, making this an easy addition to your holiday plans.
View events at the Bure Valley Railway
What’s on in October 2026
October Makers Market at Wroxham Barns
4th October 2026, 10am–3pm
Meet local makers, artists and craftspeople and browse a varied collection of handmade gifts and products. You can also explore the permanent studios and shops or stop for coffee and something tasty while you are there.
Stargazing and Soup at Salhouse Broad
24th October 2026
Wrap up warmly for an evening beneath the Norfolk sky. Astronomers from Norwich Astronomical Society will be on hand with telescopes, helping visitors identify stars and explore the night sky.
The evening includes soup, and both parking and boat mooring are included within the ticket price. Advance booking is essential, and the date may change if poor weather prevents viewing.
Kids Go Free at the Bure Valley Railway
24th October–1st November 2026
During the October half-term holiday, up to two children can travel free with one full-paying adult. Take a steam train ride between Wroxham and Aylsham and enjoy the autumn colours along the Bure Valley.
Plan your Bure Valley Railway visit
What’s on in November 2026
Winter Makers Market at Wroxham Barns
1st November 2026
Start your Christmas shopping with a visit to the Winter Makers Market. With stalls both inside and outdoors, there will be handmade gifts, independent businesses and plenty of seasonal atmosphere to enjoy.
Find out more about the market
Biofluorescence Walk at Salhouse Broad
2nd November 2026
Join an evening walk around Salhouse Broad and use specialist ultraviolet equipment to uncover glowing colours and natural details that cannot normally be seen. This unusual experience is suitable for visitors aged eight and over, although warm layers are strongly recommended.
Autumn Walk and Light Lunch at How Hill
7th November 2026
Explore the autumn colours of the How Hill gardens during a guided seasonal walk, followed by a light lunch in the welcoming surroundings of How Hill House. Places should be reserved directly with the How Hill Trust.
Thursford Christmas Spectacular
10th November–23rd December 2026
One of Norfolk’s biggest festive events returns for 2026. The Thursford Christmas Spectacular combines music, dancing, comedy, elaborate costumes and seasonal entertainment in a large-scale stage show.
Performances take place at 2pm and 7pm on selected dates. This popular event often books well in advance, so early reservation is strongly recommended.
Find out more about the Thursford Christmas Spectacular
Winter Food and Drink Market at Wroxham Barns
22nd November 2026, 10am–3pm
Discover local produce, independent traders and warming seasonal treats at Wroxham Barns’ winter market. It is a good place to find Norfolk food and drink gifts or pick up something delicious to enjoy during your break.
Christmas Wreath Making at How Hill
29th November 2026
Create your own festive wreath using foliage gathered from the How Hill estate. The workshop takes place inside the cosy surroundings of How Hill House and offers a lovely start to the Christmas season. Advance booking is required.
Make an event part of your Broads holiday
A Barnes Brinkcraft holiday gives you the freedom to enjoy the Broads at your own pace. Spend the morning cruising, moor up for lunch and then head out to a local event, family attraction or evening experience.
Some events can be reached directly or partly by boat, while others are a short drive or taxi ride from our Wroxham boatyard base. Our friendly team will be happy to help with local directions and general information during your stay.
Event dates, times and availability may change. Please check directly with the organiser and book ahead where required.