One of the great joys of staying at The Poplars is how perfectly placed you are to enjoy everything this extraordinary corner of England has to offer — not just in Cromer and Sheringham, but across the whole of North Norfolk. And in 2026, there's more to get excited about than ever. Here's your month-by-month guide to the highlights.
🌿 April
Sheringham Viking Festival — Saturday 11 April
The spectacular free event that transforms Sheringham's seafront. Vikings, battle re-enactments, a torchlit parade and the burning of a longship. Not to be missed.
Tulips at Houghton — 11 April until early May
Houghton Hall near Fakenham opens its walled garden for a vibrant spring floral display. Stunning, and well worth the drive.
Norfolk Artisan Fair, Fakenham — 18–19 April
Quality artisan food, drink, gifts and crafts at Fakenham Racecourse. A lovely spring day out.
🌸 May
Folk on the Pier, Cromer — 8–10 May
26 years in, this acclaimed folk festival at Cromer Pier Pavilion draws some of the finest names in acoustic and folk music. A very special weekend.
Sandringham Food, Craft & Wood Festival — 2–4 May
The May Bank Holiday weekend at Sandringham Estate — craft stalls, food halls and beautiful surroundings. A brilliant family day out.
Cromer Crab & Lobster Festival — 15–17 May
The celebration of Cromer's most famous export. Seafood, live music, street food and a spectacular opening concert at the Pier on the evening of 15th May.
☀️ June
Fakenham Races Ladies Day — 7 June
Fashion, fun and a flutter at Fakenham Racecourse — one of the most popular racing days in the Norfolk calendar.
🌻 July
Sheringham Potty Festival — 4–5 July
Morris dancers from across the country take over the streets of Sheringham for a free, joyful weekend of folk dancing and music. A proper Norfolk tradition since 1993.
⭐ RHS Sandringham Flower Show — 22–26 July
Brand new for 2026 — the RHS brings its world-famous flower show to Sandringham Estate for the very first time. Show gardens, floral displays, expert talks and a great food market, all set within the royal estate. King Charles III and Queen Camilla are expected to attend. An unmissable event and a real piece of history.
🏖️ August
Wells-next-the-Sea Carnival — 31 July–8 August
A beloved North Norfolk tradition that has been running for over a century. Live music, a fete, family activities, the crowning of the Carnival King and Queen, and a grand parade on 8 August.
Classic Ibiza at Blickling Hall — 1 August
An open-air stage, a 32-piece orchestra, headline DJs and live vocalists bring White Isle energy to one of Norfolk's most beautiful National Trust estates.
Cromer Carnival Week — 15–21 August
One of the great British seaside traditions. A full week of fun, with the famous illuminated parade and fireworks display on Carnival Day, Wednesday 19 August.
🍂 September
Brancaster Staithe Sea Shanty Festival — mid-September
A celebration of maritime tradition and community spirit, with shanties and performances across multiple venues in Brancaster.
⭐ Sheringham 1940s Weekend — 18–20 September
The event that draws over 20,000 visitors to North Norfolk every year. The whole of Sheringham, Holt and Weybourne transforms into a living 1940s experience — vintage music, dancing, classic vehicles, wartime re-enactments and the iconic People's Parade. Ride the Poppy Line steam train between all three towns for the full experience.
North Norfolk Food & Drink Festival, Holkham — September
Now in its 17th year, over 12,000 visitors descend on the magnificent Walled Garden at Holkham Hall for two days of the finest local food, drink and produce. Live cookery theatre, artisan stalls and one of the most beautiful settings in England.
🎃 October / November
Half term brings family-friendly Halloween trails, crafts and seasonal fun at both Holkham Hall and Pensthorpe Nature Reserve near Fakenham. Dates to be confirmed — check individual websites.
Norfolk Artisan Fair at Christmas, Fakenham — 7–8 November
The best of Norfolk's food, drink, gifts and crafts to kick off the festive season. Doors open 9.30am–4pm both days.
🎄 Christmas
Cromer Pier Christmas Show — early November to late December
The award-winning festive spectacular at Cromer Pier Pavilion. Matinee and evening performances, suitable for all ages. Book early — it sells out every year.
Illuminated Steam Train, Sheringham to Holt
One of Norfolk's most magical Christmas experiences — riding the Poppy Line at night through a landscape lit with enchanting displays.
Holkham Hall Candlelight Tours — late November to late December
As seen on Channel 4. The magnificent state rooms dressed in spectacular festive décor by talented creatives. Utterly magical.
All dates are correct at time of publication. Always check individual event websites for the latest information and ticketing. We'll keep this page updated throughout the year!