Thursford: annual Christmas show is spectacular with a capital ‘S’

It’s staggering to think that 1,400 people descend on this sleepy corner of Norfolk for each performance during the Christmas period. Thursford has matinee and evening shows that run from early November until just before Christmas, bringing together some of the UK’s top performers for a show full of variety.

It may be an old cliché, but it is not an exaggeration to say that once you arrive, it feels like you are stepping into a winter wonderland. I can now completely understand why it was voted Best Christmas Experience at the 2024 Group Leisure & Travel Awards.

As soon as your pull up, Christmassy hits drift across the large car park which can easily fit ample coaches - there were 13 on the afternoon of my performance. A sparkly welcome sign leads you into a North Pole-like village, where small shops covered in twinkly lights stock plenty of gifts. Staff outside, who are on-hand to point you in the right direction, are dressed in red and gold mantles, with some even donning top hats to stay on theme.

Of course, the main pull is the show itself, but the on-site Enchanted Journey of Light, and Fantasyland, both offer groups additional festive fun. The outdoor journey of light is full of creatures that come to life in the evening, while the warmer option of Fantasyland has lights galore, and small animatronic characters which are centred around the venue’s large collection of Steam Engines to spark memories of Christmases past. 

Catering is reasonably priced with lots of options to choose from. I had a delicious pie that was packed with all the seasonal trimmings like turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce - it certainly warmed up a cold day, especially when adding mulled wine.

Inside the auditorium itself is where the attraction outdoes itself. Decorations hang from the ceiling throughout the converted farmer’s barn, a large carousel takes up one side of the room and Christmas trees adorn the stage. On taking your seat, you might think the pillars holding up the historic roof of this converted barn would be an eye sore, but the action surrounds the audience and there are no distractions. 

Scottish pipers kicked off proceedings and they had the whole venue clapping, before guests were treated to a range of acts to brighten any Christmas outing. 

Danny Butler, five-time British and European Mountain Bike Champion was joined by his brother, Ash and they created a number of ‘wow’ moments as they performed a host of daring stunts.

Ukrainian contortion duo Anna Biseva and Sofiia Soloviova, brothers Michael and Dario from the Italian circus dynasty the Togni family, and award-winning diabolo performer Rody Olivares Fernandez also brought their own creativity to the show.

Comedian host Lloyd Hollett had plenty of quips to keep visitors entertained during the performance, but the show is at its best when the full cast take to the aisles around the audience to bring them into the action.

We had Christmas carols, well-known musical numbers and plenty of energetic routines - there is a reason why this is billed as the biggest show of its kind in Europe.

My favourite segment had to be Phil Kelsall MBE on the Wurlitzer. I have never heard anything quite like it, and for more than 40 years he has wowed guests with his talent at Thursford. Booming notes from the ivory keys and bassy tones from the foot pedal below combine in a mix of amazing sounds.

Taking a group and 2025 dates

For groups, it is a no-brainer, with generous discounts for 20 or more people.

Although this year’s spectacle is probably out of reach, 2025 dates go on sale from Thursday 12th December, with dates available from 8th November 2025 until 23rd December 2025. I will certainly be heading back.