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Thursford

Tourist attraction Museum Event venue Wedding venue Performing arts theater Conference center Wedding service

One of the Most Revieweds in North Norfolk


Address

Laurel Farm, The St, Fakenham NR21 0AS, United Kingdom

Website

www.thursford.com

Contact

+44 1328 878477

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (4.5K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: 9 am to 4 pm
  • Tuesday: 9 am to 4 pm
  • Wednesday: 9 am to 4 pm
  • Thursday: 9 am to 4 pm
  • Friday: 9 am to 4 pm
  • Saturday: Closed

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: show (30) Christmas (29) Thursford (15) light (12) experience (12) amazing (11) great (11) time (10) year (10) rides (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Mark P. 1 year ago on Google
    Went to the Christmas Spectacular. Absolutely worth a visit to see the Christmas lights and watch the 3 hour variety show. It has something for everyone and all ages will enjoy. Really put me in the Christmas spirit. Highly professional show, excellent singers, live orchestra and one of the funniest comedians I've seen in a long time. Great night.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sue L. 2 years ago on Google
    Thursford spectacular..... What can I say......wow wow wow wow. Worth every penny! Booked this for my birthday treat, heard it was good but no it was amazing, the acts, singers, dancers, decorations and lights all amazing. We didn't book the enchanted walk but got tickets when we got there. We loved walking around and could have spent longer there. We were at the evening performance so it was dark...and cold outside. There are plenty of guides to let you know where to go and answer any questions. We didn't eat or drink there but there are places to do so and able to get mini tubs of ice cream during the interval. Everyone who played a part in setting up this show should be very proud, thank you to you all
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Pierre M. (. 2 years ago on Google
    Brilliant place, superbe show! 3 hours of it and not bored, that's very unlike me! Couldn't fault anything, performers, musicians, sound and light show, all were top. However, should you wish to visit the Fantasy Land, it'll cost you £10 extra if you have a ticket for the show, and £18 without, which seems a bit stiff...
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Irina L. 1 year ago on Google
    Our first time seeing this amazing Christmas spectacular. It was truly wonderful, worth every penny and the 3 hour journey to Thursford! I don’t think I have ever seen such a well organised and professional show. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ All the artists, dancers and musicians are super talented and professional. The show is suited for everyone. If you haven’t booked your ticket yet you should hurry up and you will not regret it! It is magical!🪄✨🎅🏼 We will come back next year💖
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jo O. 5 months ago on Google
    It was the most magical experience. In this troubled World we live in we need some joy and this Christmas show will give you it in abundance. An amazing cast. The dancers and singers are worthy of a top London/New York/Paris show! The orchestra was exceptional. The organist a legend and great supporting acts. Two and a half hours of bliss. I would recommend it 100%
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nessy C. 1 year ago on Google
    Went to see the Christmas spectacular. Well what can i say , absolutely magical. On entrance the garden and buildings are all covered in Christmas lights and looks magical. The shop's were open so you can browse before going into the show. The smell of hot mince pie's the food . There's a big café also. Licensed bar . And the the show was out of this world . Will definitely be going again .
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrew S. 1 year ago on Google
    We have been to the Christmas show three times over the last six years and have never been disappointed. It is so well performed and well managed. The light trail and Santa's walk were wonderful even with the outside temperature being -1 DegC We were not too sure about the outside themes in the new section as they were not so Christmas related in our opinion, but we're a treat .The only negative I would say we're the additional cost for the fun fayre and side stalls. I thought they were over priced hence they were empty. There are plenty of food and refreshments places. We will be back.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sylvia W. 1 year ago on Google
    My first visit here and it was a great experience in many ways. I had not researched the place but had heard numerous positive comments about it, so I had to find out for myself. Arriving at 11.30 am for the matinée we had time to kill,so we visited the Santa village and outdoor light trail. We were welcomed by Jeremy and told we could return any time as long as we showed our stamped ticket to prove we'd paid the £10 entrance fee. Now, this might seem a lot to some of us of advancing years, but it proved an invaluable asset! No Santa, but no little ones during the day as they were at school. My sister and I loved the indoor animated displays , and as the first visitors on opening, we had it to ourselves, we took lots of photos and didn't do the overall experience justice, though. Outside the Light Trail seemed pointless in the sunshine, but undaunted we needed a walk in the sunshine so again had the place to ourselves. We took photos and could ignore the signs asking visitors to keep moving, no one to irritate on Monday 12th!!!!! We came out with silly grins on our faces, great 👍 The shops on site are pretty, but my job until retirement was as a card and gift buyer, so I was aware of the inflated pricing. The performance was brilliant, with a great setting, fantastic costumes, and a good comedian/pianist. Now, for our criticism, which I hope will be considered for next year !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The choir is fantastic but we would have preferred more upbeat carols or Christmas songs rather than the unknown numbers performed. Only knew O Holy Night out of the 4 serious pieces, and whilst it was beautiful , hardly uplifting as it's one of the most emotional songs I know!! The one performance on the stage of soldiers with trombones was not spectacular enough, but overall, a really enjoyable few hours. To return to the Santa village, your £10 also allows repeated visits to the toilets inside. This might not bother you, but the queues elsewhere might change your mind!! We also visited the light trail after the performance, sadly, at speed ,as our coach driver had said to return to the coach without delay. We decided to ignore him as we had some challenged ladies on our coach and thought we would beat them.back anyway!! We weren't the last on the coach, so we didn't incur his wrath !! So pleased we decided to be rebels!!! The staff here were lovely, I've mentioned Jeremy, but also Reg, who was outside the Santa village, was so friendly and good humoured. A big contrast to our Bah Humbug coach driver who told us about the Santa village in a most disparaging way, probably had rebels like us before!!!!!! We'll return and encourage others to visit, too. I am 70 years old, and it's never too late to benefit from some Christmas magic.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Louisa B. 1 year ago on Google
    Such a magical place for kids as well as adults. We went just after Xmas and the light displays were amazing. Kids enjoyed the rides after walking through the trail of lights which is outside considering it was raining then headed indoors for a warming hot chocolate and churros which was a stall outside
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lysa S. 2 years ago on Google
    Went to the Magical journey of light and it didn't disappoint. We went with our 3 children (11,6 &2) and we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The lights outside were amazing and my favourite part. The walk through inside was magical, the children enjoyed looking at all the characters. Cafe was nice with plenty of space. Vintage funfair was cute don't forget your pennies for the tokens for the rides. Food and drink also outside. Will definitely go again next year.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sharon B. 1 year ago on Google
    What a fantastic experience! It was a rainy day and the perfect place to go.We took our 10 year old Grand daughter and she loved it too..It was like stepping back in time.Nice little shopping village and also a cafe with good coffee and tasty food.. The staff were all really lovely and helpful apart from one dark haired older lady serving in the cafe,who was really rude and grumpy,shame she let the side down. The admission fees are very reasonable at £8 per adult and free for under 12's, rides were £3 each,but it was all worth every penny...A perfect day out.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Graham W. 5 months ago on Google
    Loved it. Loads of different themes, the detail and colour was immense. A wonderland. £22 to walk through a light garden though. I know I'm tight but 22 quid, each. 5 stars besides the cost.

  • 5/5 J K. 4 months ago on Google
    Booked for the Light Trail and was delighted at the experience! Didn't quite know what to expect, but me and my partner very much enjoyed it! Decent sized trail, price maybe a little too high for it, would suit around the £15 mark in my opinion! Lights were very nice, nice and bright on the evening ✨️ Would be perfect for anyone who likes lights or has small children (or is a child at heart like myself!)

  • 5/5 paul a. 4 months ago on Google
    The Christmas Thursford Show was certainly worth seeing. People have said you won't be disappointed and we weren't. Fantastic show. Their are great shops selling Christmas presents. Sweet Shop selling old favourites and lots of new sweets as well. And when you come out after the show their is a light display.

  • 5/5 Victor S. 4 months ago on Google
    Many shows around Christmas. I've been to to many of them in London and around England, but if you really want to get to the Christmas mood, this show will easily do the job. It's not only a great variety show but played in the most amazing Christmas atmosphere. After moving from London to Cambridgeshire, we found d this show and been 3 years in a row now... Still bring us that Christmas jolly feeling... highly recommended!

  • 5/5 Benjamin K. 4 months ago on Google
    Thursford was amazing for kids and adults. The lights are great to walk around. Great size so it didn't take long or too quick. Members of staff were Fantastic. It's just a shame they are card payment or correct change only.

  • 5/5 Jill C. 4 months ago on Google
    A wonderful show-amazingly talented singers, dancers, musicians with a selection of acts to complement the show. This included a fast talking comedian, stunt bike, stunt roller skaters and very entertaining juggling! The separate light show is well worth the additional cost. An excellent performance to start the Christmas celebrations!!

  • 5/5 Gisela F. 3 months ago on Google New
    Decided it was time to see the Christmas Show at Thursford as everybody you speak to said it was brilliant, and we were not disappointed. It was a stunning 3 hour show worthy of the west end. The performers were all so professional. The lights and displays were fantastic, we left feeling very festive. Highly recommended.

  • 5/5 John H. 9 months ago on Google
    Loved it, great day out, first time I have been in 40 years...a bit bigger now from when I first went all those years ago....

  • 4/5 S W. 9 months ago on Google
    Lovely place to walk around & explore. Very friendly. Great for a family day out. Food & drink available but lots of space for a picnic.

  • 5/5 Theresia M. 7 months ago on Google
    We we're there for a wedding. It was absolutely amazing. Memories for a lifetime.Melissa you rock! She is doing her job with so much passion. The venue and the whole staff we're great. Greatings from the Austrians 😊

  • 5/5 Gillian B. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful museum for steam and music addicts. Robert Wolfe absolutely amazing on the mighty wirlitze organ. Spotlessly clean and setting up for their extravaganza at Christmas. Plenty of parking scrumptious food in the cafe well stocked shop and steam tractors beautifully maintained.well worth a visit part also for childrens play which I'm afraid I didn't check out.staff friendly and help. Treat yourself inexpensive too. What more do you want.

  • 5/5 Lyndsey 1 year ago on Google
    Visited Thursford 15th December for my birthday and I was gobsmacked I was so happy with my visit I came a few years ago with my auntie to watch the show, but this year I came back now happily married and with our 3 year old daughter who was extremely happy to see all the beautiful lights. It's absolutely magical and I can officially say I'm really looking forward to Christmas now, thank you so much for helping me feel the festive mood, was a lovely birthday spending it at Thursford. I will definitely be back, hard to find because it's in the middle of absolutely no where but it's gorgeous and you will NOT be disappointed I promise you 💖

  • 5/5 Tim Wood (Tim Wood P. 1 year ago on Google
    Thursford is one of the most unique wedding venues in Norfolk, with huge open spaces for guests, a stunning marquee and of course, one of the best carousel’s you’ll ever find! I’ve shot quite a few weddings now at Thursford and always get excited when I get a booking for it! (Not just because I love steam engines). The staff are fab and super helpful. Nothing is ever too much bother, and you always feel looked after. When it comes to the venue ‘space’ - It’s gorgeous. Natural tones and room to ‘breathe’ is how I’d describe it. You can decorate however you decide and make it yours, or keep it simple and enjoy clean open spaces. The marquee is huge, and bathed in gorgeous sunlight. It is situated next to a vast green with trees and a park for the kids. (A real help on a big day!) Thursford is known for its steam museum and its carousel. It really is a stunner, and it’s hard to do it justice. I try my best though. :) If you’re planning a big wedding, then this venue will easily accommodate it. The food is fab and the bar is well stocked. What more do you need??

  • 5/5 Nick W. 10 months ago on Google
    Excellent Christmas experience. The Santa magical journey is a must do event. You start your journey travelling through the North Pole and workshops inside that lead to a visit to santa. This is then followed by a Christmas light trail outside. Once you finish, there are some steam rides and places to eat, a little overpriced but is ok. The whole experience is wheelchair accessible including Santa's grotto. Outside throughout light trail and other pathways, you have loose gravel throughout. Decking where the rides are, but still accessible throughout. On a normal summer season, it is really nice to see the whole museum. There are different things going on at certain times. However, be aware that when you pay to enter the museum, they will also up sale the 2 steam rides they have. If you are not able to climb steep steps and high carriage, then the rides are not worth buying as one of the rides it is a big climb to lift yourself on a steep slope into the carriage.

  • 4/5 Dan R. 1 year ago on Google
    We went during the off season, but had a very enjoyable time. The food at the café was good and freshly made. The staff were all very helpful and friendly. And the show put on with the Wurlitzer was fantastic! We look forward to returning for the Christmas spectacular.

  • 5/5 Inta P. 1 year ago on Google
    The Thursford Christmas Spectacular show was fantastic! I especially enjoyed the organ music and the energetic young dancers. There were multiple costume changes, and every style of music, from traditional Christmas songs, to musical references only millennials and older would pick up on. While the majority of the audience appeared to be above the age of sixty, I do believe this show is for younger generations as well. Maybe the comparably high ticket price acts as a barrier. Those interested in attending should arrive early in order to enjoy browsing through the shops (and take some fantastic photos against amazing background!). Food options weren't the best, or the cheapest; you can buy a glass of mulled wine for £5.50, or a cup of coffee tor £2.75. A sandwich will set you back £5.00, and expect queues everywhere. There are less busy facilities near the entrance (ladies loos are particularly busy). There is a 25 minute break during the performance. Overall, recommend!

  • 5/5 Sandie S. 1 year ago on Google
    Well, were to start. The spectacular show was as its name suggests. The singers, dancers and orchestra were faultless. Such enthusiasm. The compere, Kev was brilliantly funny and a clever pianist. Just wonderful.

  • 5/5 jackie s. 2 years ago on Google
    First time but definitely not the last time. This is an Awesome Show. The Choir is heavenly and the dancers are incredible. Looks like White Christmas...the movie inside. It was the Best Show I have Ever Seen. Cannot recommend enough. If you fancy a good old fashioned Christmas show in Nov/Dec book up the Thursford Show and you will not be disappointed. 1 teeny tiny point is that the seats are like old fashioned cinema seat sizes so be prepared. No photos or videos can be taken which is a shame but I can understand it but its now left to our memories. I wonder if Thursford have thought of recording the whole show and then selling it next year as the show changes every year ??? Worth a thought and I know it would be lovely to have that experience again via a video at home The light experience was a great family experience also. So much to see. Well Done Thursford Team. Hopefully see you next year. Merry Christmas

  • 5/5 J W. 2 years ago on Google
    We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Thursford with our little man. The theming of both the indoor and outdoor areas were incredible and provided an awesome sensory experience. There was also rides for the little man to enjoy and various places to stop of for refreshments. We will definitely be visiting again next year

  • 4/5 Fox V. 1 year ago on Google
    A privilege to see a collection of traction engines, some of them in great condition, and to ride two old fairground attractions. Shame no steam engines running on the day we visited. Change out of £20 per person after admission, two rides, a drink and a cake.

  • 5/5 Michelle O. 2 years ago on Google
    Great evening out to get into the festive mood! Our 17 month old had a look of awe glued to his face for the whole night. We only did the magical journey as we felt he would not have the attention span for the spectacular show, but it was still a lovely experience and we will definitely be going again.


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Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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