Christmas in Norwich
Norwich takes Christmas seriously. Not only does Santa Claus extract himself from the busy job of the important business of figuring out who has been naughty and who has been nice by popping up at Jarrolds for a few weeks, but, along with the markets and Carols with the King at the Forum, the city also hosts a five-week pantomime bonanza that has become a traditional part of the festive celebrations.
This year’s panto is Sleeping Beauty, featuring TV stars like Helen Fraser from Bad Girls and Kevin Sacre of Hollyoaks fame.
So book a Christmas cottage and get shopping!
Christmas Craft & Gift Fair
November 30th – December 18th
Held at the Forum, this modern-day “multifaceted destination” – which translates as being a venue for entertainment, food, art, culture and technology and so on – sees wonderful obscure gems put on sale.
Dragon Hall Medieval Christmas Market
December 3 – 4th
An absolute hoot, this extremely visual and engaging German-influenced market sees stallholders dressed in their finest medieval garments barter with customer while musicians bang out period music – it’s as if you’ve been transported back in time.
Christmas Craft Market
December 5th – 24th
Situated at The Mall, a shopping centre in the city, the annual Christmas Craft Market is consistently a great place to pick up eclectic finds from random wooden gifts to handmade jewellery items made and sourced locally.
Cloisters Antiques & Collectables Fair – St Andrews Hall
December 7th, 14th and 21st
Best defined as a haven for vintage-lovers – set in a captivating 14th century rectangular space – the cloisters, though open all year around, throws up some seasonal treats during Christmas.
While you’re in Norwich, make time for some fine dining and local attractions:
Eat – Brook Cottage Restaurant
20 years old, this restaurant is one of the best places to enjoy food in Norwich. Check out the wild mushroom feuillette and potted north sea shrimp with wholemeal toast.
See – Norwich Cathedral
The 900-year-old Norman cathedral was completed in 1145, a Romanesque building that wowed people at the time. Today it is open to visitors of all faiths and as a tourist attraction.
Posted by David Sollberger, cottages4you
