Pink Footed Geese at Snettisham
2026-10-09 08:00 - 2027-01-30 17:00 (Europe/London) | Snettisham Nature Reserve, Snettisham Nature Reserve, United Kingdom
The dawn flight of up to 40,000 pink-footed geese that make their way from Iceland and Greenland to gather on the The Wash in one of the best nature spectacles in Europe.. The arrival of the Pink-footed Geese in Snettisham has come to herald the start of the Autumn and Winter season for many bird-watchers and nature lovers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OL9UWZ2K9gU
Experience the “Heaven Hounds” of the North Norfolk Coast
Every winter, the Norfolk skyline undergoes a dramatic transformation. From October 2026 through February 2027, over 100,000 Pink-footed Geese migrate from Iceland and Greenland to the Norfolk coast. Known as the “Heaven Hounds” because of their high-pitched, evocative “wink-wink” calls that echo through the clouds, this migration is widely considered the most impressive wildlife event in the UK.
The real magic happens at dawn and dusk. As the sun rises over the Wash, tens of thousands of geese take flight simultaneously from their nighttime roosts on the mudflats to feed in the inland sugar beet fields. The sound of thousands of wings beating in unison, paired with the cacophony of their calls, is a sensory experience that stays with you forever.
Key Viewing Locations for 2026:

RSPB Snettisham: Famous for the “Snettisham Spectacular,” where the tide pushes the birds closer to the shore.

Holkham National Nature Reserve: Ideal for seeing vast skeins of geese against the backdrop of the pine woods and sand dunes.

Cley Marshes & NWT Holme Dunes: Excellent alternative spots for those seeking a quieter experience away from the main crowds.

3. Visitor Information & Costs
Unlike a theater show, the geese spectacle is a natural event with no “ticket price” for the birds themselves. However, planning for parking and reserve access is essential.

Location
Entry Fee
Parking (Non-Members)
Best For

RSPB Snettisham
Free
£7.00 (Free for RSPB members)
The Dawn Flight

Holkham Reserve
Free
Approx. £5.00 – £10.00 (Hourly)
Dusk Skeins

NWT Cley Marshes
£5.00 (Permit)
Included in Permit
Wetland Variety

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time to see the Pink-footed Geese in Norfolk?
The peak season is from November to early January. While the birds begin arriving in October, the largest numbers are present during the coldest months. For the best experience, arrive at the coast at least 30 minutes before sunrise to catch the dawn flight.
Where is the best place to see the Snettisham Spectacular in 2026?
The RSPB Snettisham reserve is the premier spot. To see the birds pushed up onto the pits, you must check the tide tables. Look for “Spring Tides” (the highest tides) during the morning for the most dramatic displays.
What should I bring for a winter bird-watching trip?

Warm Layers: The Norfolk coast is notoriously windy and cold in winter.

Binoculars: Essential for seeing the formations in detail.

A Torch: For navigating the paths to the hides in the dark before dawn.

Sturdy Boots: Paths can be muddy and uneven.

Are the geese there every day?
Yes, they remain in Norfolk throughout the winter, but their behavior depends on the weather and moon cycles. On bright, full-moon nights, the geese may feed all night and move at different times, whereas on dark, cold mornings, the dawn flight is more predictable.
Is it suitable for photographers?
Absolutely. The “V-formations” (skeins) against a pink or orange sunrise provide some of the best wildlife photography opportunities in Europe. We recommend a fast telephoto lens to capture the birds in flight.
A good place to stay?
Magazine Wood is not only directly under the flight lines to Snettisham Reserve to see the birds return at dusk but also just a short drive away when visiting at dawn.
Directly below the Snettisham roost flight lines, Magazine Wood is the perfect place to stay.

Hunstanton Christmas Day Swim 2026
2026-12-25 11:00 - 2027-12-25 17:00 | Oasis, Central Promenade, Hunstanton PE36 5BD, Oasis, Central Promenade, Hunstanton PE36 5BD, United Kingdom
The Hunstanton Christmas Day Swim with everyone taking the plunge at 11am on Friday 26th December at the town’s central promenade. This is one of Norfolk biggest events over the festive season with hundreds of people taking part.

The Hunstanton Christmas Day Swim is a beloved tradition that’s been running for over 60 years! It’s a truly unique way to celebrate Christmas, and it’s become one of the biggest events on the North Norfolk Coast’s festive calendar. Here’s what makes it so special:

A Bracing Dip for a Good Cause:

Hundreds of brave souls: Every Christmas morning, hundreds of people gather on Hunstanton beach to take a dip in the chilly North Sea.

Festive fundraising: The event is organised by the Hunstanton and District Round Table, who raise money for local charities.

Fancy dress fun: Many swimmers don festive costumes, adding to the joyous and quirky atmosphere.

More than just a swim:

A community spectacle: The event attracts large crowds of spectators who come to cheer on the swimmers and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Prizes for the best dressed: There are prizes for the best individual and group costumes, so get creative!

Post-swim warm-up: Enjoy free hot soup and warm showers after your invigorating dip.

Essential info:

Date: Christmas Day (December 25th) every year.

Time: Usually around 11 am.

Location: Hunstanton Promenade, by the Oasis Leisure Centre.

Registration: Required on or before the day, usually between 10 am and 10:30 am.

Safety first: Swimmers are required to wear shoes for safety.

Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just looking for a unique and fun way to celebrate Christmas, the Hunstanton Christmas Day Swim is an unforgettable experience. It’s a testament to the community spirit and festive cheer that makes the North Norfolk Coast so special.

Traditionally many swimmers not only brave the icy water but also don fancy dress to raise money for charity.
Go here for all Norfolk Coast Christmas Events

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Kings Lynn Fairground Mart 2027
2027-02-12 - 2027-02-21 | Tuesday Market Place, Kings Lynn, PE30 1AX, Tuesday Market Place, Kings Lynn, PE30 1AX, United Kingdom
Kings Lynn Mart returns on Valentines day Friday 12th February 2027 with the Mayors’s official opening at midday. Traditionally the opening to the travelling season, King’s Lynn Mart has a special place in the hearts of the travelling show people.

The mart continues a tradition from the later half of the nineteenth century when the King’s Lynn Mart was a spectacular event in which Frederick Savage of King’s Lynn displayed his latest roundabouts and fairground attractions to the showmen. This display of new machines and amusements continues today with the showmen vying to display the latest amusements. Traditionally, this is the first funfair in the Showmen’s calendar where new rides are tried out and old favourites brought out from winter storage.

The 820th Kings Lynn Mart which runs from the 12th February 2027 includes the same traditional rides and stalls as well as new rides called the Tornado, Over the Falls and the Fighter, which is a smaller version of the popular ride, Extreme. The ‘Booster’ pendulum ride will be back, as will the ride he calls the ‘Crazy Shake’ after it was introduced ‘with success last year’. For two whole weeks from Valentines day, the town will see thousands of people come and experience all the fun of the showman’s travelling fair. The mart will be held at the Tuesday Market place.
Children’s Day, in which all rides are reduced to £1.50 except for the Booster, dodgems and cars, will be taking place on Monday 17th.

Don’t miss out on all the BIG events on the Norfolk Coast. Follow us @lovenorfolk

Queen Visits Kings Lynn Mart in February 1953.

Magazine To Massingham FUN Walk, Run, Ride 2027
2027-02-13 08:30 - 12:00 | Magazine Wood, Magazine Wood, Peddars Way, Sedgeford, Sedgeford, Norfolk, PE36 5LW, United Kingdom
Now in its 8th year the Magazine to Massingham FUN charity walk, run, ride takes place on a ten mile section of the Peddars Way between Sedgeford and Great Massingham. Provisionally. scheduledfor

A Tradition of Giving
For years, this event has brought our community together to support vital causes. In 2026, our 150 participants hit the trail and raised over £4,000 for a very poignant charity, continuing our tradition of making every mile count.
Looking Ahead to 2027
We are already gearing up for next year!

The Date: TBC (Spring 2027)

The Charity: We select a different cause each year to benefit from your incredible fundraising efforts. The 2027 charity partner will be revealed in the weeks leading up to the event.

Whether you’re pushing for a personal best on the run or enjoying a coastal stroll with friends, we can’t wait to see you on the Peddars Way.

To participate please make a donation of £20/person.
The day starts at Magazine Wood Sedgeford at 8.45am. Please remember that the events kicks off promptly so its best to arrive in good time.

Fakenham Races Easter Monday Meeting
2027-03-29 13:00 - 17:00 | The Racecourse, Fakenham NR21 7NY, The Racecourse, Fakenham NR21 7NY, United Kingdom
For many the odds on favourite way to finish off the Easter weekend. Expect to find a big crowd, a festival of picnics and a great atmosphere as everyone tries to beat the bookies! Some big races attract runners from all over the country.

The Easter Monday first national hunt race starts at around 2.15pm on Monday March 29th 2027.
In times gone by this was the original and only meet held at the racecourse and dates back to 1905. Today Fakenham Races is a very popular venue and holds meetings throughout the year, On Easter Monday people travel from across the county to watch the races and also enjoy a popular and traditional annual event.

It is worthwhile purchasing a membership for the day which allows you to park up closest to the action. This is also a great day to dust down all your favourite picnic kit for the coming year. You can purchase a race card on the day or pick up a racing paper and study the form beforehand. Fakenham Easter Monday meeting is great for a flutter or just a bit of fun.
You can purchase a day membership at the gate which will give you access to the on course car parks, parade ring, stands and winners enclosure.
