As Christmas approaches, towns and cities across the UK are gearing up to host some of the most magical Christmas experiences you could imagine. Whether you’re in bustling London, the serene Scottish Highlands, or anywhere in between, there’s a grotto or experience nearby where children can meet Father Christmas and immerse themselves in festive cheer. From Breakfast with Santa to Sleepovers and just traditional Santa’s Grottos. Here are the best in the UK for 2024.
London and the South
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland Santa’s Grotto, London
A favourite in the capital, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland’s Santa Land is the epitome of festive fun. With its snow-covered cabins, twinkling lights, and cheerful atmosphere, this grotto is a dream come true for families. Children can meet Father Christmas for free, take home a small gift, and enjoy the wider Winter Wonderland experience, complete with rides, ice skating, and Christmas markets.
Location: Hyde Park, London
Dates: 21st November 2024 – 5th January 2025
Booking: No pre-booking required, but you need an entry ticket to Winter Wonderland. Get tickets to the Hyde Park Santa’s grotto.
Chessington World of Adventures Santa’s Grotto, Surrey
For a grotto experience with a twist, Chessington World of Adventures offers a Santa’s Grotto within its Winter’s Tail event. After meeting Father Christmas in his cosy grotto, families can explore the park’s festive attractions, including animal encounters and a Christmas panto. It’s a perfect day out for those seeking adventure and holiday spirit.
Location: Chessington, Surrey
Dates: Select dates from late November to New Year’s Eve.
Booking: Advanced booking required. Get tickets to Chessington World of Adventures Santa’s grotto.
Read next: Best Christmas Crackers for 2024
Hamley’s Santa’s Grotto, London
At Hamley’s, one of the world’s most famous toy stores, Santa’s Grotto is an experience filled with magic and wonder. The grotto is part of Hamley’s larger Christmas experience, where children can meet Father Christmas, engage in festive games and activities, and receive a special gift. The interactive experience is perfect for younger children, combining the joy of Christmas with the excitement of being in a world-renowned toy shop.
Read our guide to Hamley’s Santa Grotta 2024 to find out when tickets go on sale.
Location: Hamleys, Regent Street, London
Dates: Select dates from late November to Christmas Eve
Booking: Advanced booking required. Get tickets to Hamleys grotto 2024.
Peppa Pig Christmas Paultons Park
Experience the magic of Christmas at Paultons Park, home to Peppa Pig World, where the entire family can immerse themselves in festive cheer, including in their admission ticket. The park transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, and snow-dusted pathways. Children can see Santa on stage and meet Peppa and George dressed in their Christmas outfits, adding a sprinkle of holiday excitement to the day.
Location: The New Forest
Dates: Selected dates from 6th to 23rd December 2024.
Booking: Advanced booking require
d. Get tickets to Peppa Pig World at Christmas
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort at Christmas
At LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, the Christmas season is a time of bricktastic joy and wonder. The park lights up with festive LEGO decorations, transforming into a magical wonderland where children can meet Father Christmas in his enchanted grotto, surrounded by sparkling LEGO models. In addition to Santa’s Grotto, families can enjoy a range of seasonal activities, including building festive LEGO creations, exploring the Christmas-themed Miniland, and riding selected attractions that bring an extra dash of holiday magic. The whole experience is topped off with Christmas shows and a festive parade, making it a perfect winter day out.
Location: Windsor
Dates: Selected dates from 23rd November
Booking: Advanced booking required. Get tickets to Legoland at Chrismas.
Kent & East Sussex Railway
When it comes to magical childhood Christmas experiences, there’s nothing quite like a steam train ride, heading into the wintry countryside, with the prospect of meeting Santa, all without moving from the comfort of the carriage. And this year the Kent & East Sussex Railway’s award-winning Santa Specials are celebrating 50 years of creating these amazing memories for generations of families.
The main attraction – Santa himself – travels on board the train, giving out individually-named presents to the children, ably assisted by his trusty team of elves. Santa travels on every train
For families looking for something a little less intense, the 11.15am service on Saturday 30th November has been designated a ‘Quiet Train’. Whilst no Christmas music will be played, all of the other inclusive features remain part of the experience. A wheelchair accessible coach is also available on this service.
Dates: Saturdays and Sundays from 30th November until 22nd December plus Christmas Eve.
Booking Online booking is essential
Priory Farm
The perfect family destination for festive fun this Christmas season. From 25th November to 24th December 2023, the farm’s enchanting Discovery Land will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland.
Families can embark on a festive trail through Discovery Land, where twinkling lights and Christmas decorations adorn the scenic pathways. Along the way, children can meet Santa’s woodland friends and enjoy interactive surprises. There’s even a chance to spot Santa Claus himself at the end of the trail!
For those looking to capture memories, Priory Farm offers fantastic photo opportunities, making it a great place to snap that perfect Christmas card picture. Warm up with seasonal refreshments at the café, and explore the Farm Shop for unique gifts, local produce, and festive treats.
The farm’s Christmas events are designed to delight children and adults alike, making it an ideal outing for families looking to soak up some holiday cheer. Advance booking is highly recommended, as this popular event tends to sell out quickly.
Location: Priory Farm is located in South Nutfield, Surrey. Offers free parking. For more details and to book tickets, visit the Priory Farm website.
Dates: See website
Booking: Priory Farm Events
Drusillas Park
At Drusillas Park this Christmas, immerse yourself in a magical festive adventure. Meet Santa Claus in his cozy grotto, where children can share their Christmas
wishes and receive a special gift. The magic continues with a captivating train ride through a beautifully lit winter wonderland, and plenty of festive fun with themed activities across the park. From sparkling decorations to Santa’s friendly reindeer, Drusillas offers a heartwarming holiday experience that’s perfect for the entire family.
Location: Drusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex
Dates: Meet Santa on selected dates in November and December.
Booking: Advanced booking recommended. Get tickets to Meet Santa at Drusillas Park.
Christmas with Shrek
Celebrate the festive season with a unique twist at Shrek’s Adventure! London, where the beloved green ogre’s world comes alive with Christmas magic. This interactive experience features a special Santa’s Grotto where children can meet Shrek Father Christmas in the whimsical Far Far Away. After sharing their holiday wishes with Santa and receiving a gift, families can explore Shrek’s enchanting world, meeting characters like Donkey and Fiona along the way. The attraction is decked out in festive decorations, with Christmas-themed activities and surprises around every corner, making it an unforgettable holiday experience in the heart of London.
Dates: 30th November – 24th December
Booking: Advanced booking required. Get tickets to Shrek’s Adventure at Christmas.
Storytelling with Santa at Fornum and Mason’s
Fortnum & Mason’s Father Christmas Storytelling experience offers a magical and intimate opportunity for families to enjoy festive tales told by the man himself, Father Christmas. Set in the iconic Piccadilly store, this enchanting event welcomes children to gather around for heartwarming Christmas stories, with an
added dash of seasonal sparkle. Each session is filled with festive cheer, complete with a chance for little ones to meet Father Christmas after the storytelling, making it a perfect addition to any family’s holiday traditions. Be sure to book in advance, as this sought-after event promises to be a treasured memory for years to come.
Location: London
Dates: Selected dates
Booking: Advanced booking required. Get tickets here.
Ruxley Manor Grotto
Experience the magic of Christmas at Ruxley Manor’s renowned Grotto! From November 9th, families can immerse themselves in a festive adventure, meeting Father Christmas and Mother Christmas, and even creating special reindeer food with the elves. This year, the Grotto offers a more inclusive experience with dedicated sessions for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN), ensuring that everyone can enjoy the holiday spirit. Tickets are in high demand, so be sure to book early for this unforgettable family event.
Dates: Selected dates in November and December.
Booking: Advanced booking required. Get tickets to Ruxley Manor Grotto.
Polhill Garden Centre Santa’s Grotto Experience
Nestled in the heart of Kent, Polhill Garden Centre’s Santa’s Grotto offers a cozy and enchanting holiday experience. Families can meet Father Christmas in a beautifully decorated setting and children will receive a special gift. The Grotto also features a magical walk-through experience that adds to the festive joy. This charming grotto is perfect for creating lasting memories.
Location: Polhill Garden Centre, Sevenoaks
Dates: 9th November – 24th December 2024
Booking: Advance booking required. Visit Polhill Santa’s Grotto for tickets.
Chelsea Christmas Grotto
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit to Father Christmas, and this year, the Chelsea Christmas Grotto offers the perfect magical experience for families. Nestled among the twinkling lights of Sloane Square, the Grotto brings festive cheer from November 19 to Christmas Eve. Visitors can meet Father Christmas, listen to his enchanting stories, and receive a special gift during an intimate 25-minute session. With tickets priced at £15 (including a 50p donation to the K&C Foundation), each ticket admits one child and an accompanying adult. For a little extra festive fun, families can also enjoy Bavarian Curling at £7.50 per person on the Winter Terrace, making this the ultimate holiday outing. Be sure to book in advance to secure your spot and create cherished Christmas memories!
Location: Sloane Square
Dates: 19th November – 24th December 2024
Booking: Advance booking required. Visit Chelsea Christmas Grotto for tickets.
Midlands
Santa Sleepover and Panto at Alton Towers
Experience the magic of Christmas with a Santa Sleepover at Alton Towers Resort! Enjoy an unforgettable festive short break filled with holiday fun for the whole family. Your stay includes an overnight stay in one of the resort’s themed hotels, a visit to Santa’s Grotto with a special gift for each child, and tickets to the Alton Towers Christmas event. Plus, enjoy access to selected rides, live entertainment, and a delicious breakfast. This enchanting experience is perfect for creating magical memories during the holiday season at one of the UK’s top resorts.
Location: Bewdley, Worcestershire
Dates: Select dates in November and December
Booking: Advanced booking required. Get Alton Towers Christmas tickets here.
Stories with Santa at Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle offers Stories with Santa, a magical experience for families during the Christmas season. Running on select dates from November 23rd to December 31st, 2024, this event features Santa and his elves sharing festive stories in a cozy, themed setting within the castle. Children receive a gift and can enjoy a photo opportunity with Santa. This experience is part of the larger “Christmas at the Castle” event, which includes other festive activities and entertainment.
Location: Warwick
Dates: Select dates in November and December
Booking: Advanced booking required. Get Warwick Castle Christmas tickets here.
West Midland Safari Park Santa’s Grotto, Worcestershire
At West Midland Safari Park, Santa’s Grotto is part of the park’s larger Santa Safari event. Families can enjoy a festive safari through the park’s wildlife reserves before meeting Father Christmas in his grotto, where each child will receive a special gift. The event also includes Christmas crafts, a winter wonderland trail, and an ice rink.
Location: Bewdley, Worcestershire
Dates: Select dates in November and December
Booking: Advanced booking required.
North of England
The Trafford Centre, Manchester
The Trafford Centre in Manchester hosts a popular Santa’s Grotto as part of its extensive Christmas celebrations. Set within a wintery wonderland, the grotto offers children the chance to meet Father Christmas, share their wishes, and receive a gift. The surrounding area is filled with festive activities, including a Christmas market, ice skating, and family-friendly rides.
Location: The Trafford Centre, Manchester
Dates: Mid-November to Christmas Eve
Booking: Pre-booking advised. Get Trafford Centre Santa’s grotto tickets.
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, York
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland is home to one of the region’s most beloved Santa’s Grottos. Located within the larger Christmas event at York Designer Outlet, this grotto features a magical, snow-covered village where children can meet Father Christmas and receive a special gift. The event also includes the largest outdoor ice rink in the North of England, vintage funfair rides, and a festive market.
Location: York Designer Outlet, York
Dates: Mid-November to early January
Booking: Advanced booking recommended. Get tickets.
Santa on the Roof at Fenwick, Newcastle
Santa on the Roof at Fenwick in Newcastle offers a truly magical Christmas experience. Families can take an enchanted rooftop journey, meeting Santa and his elves in a festive winter wonderland. Children will receive a special gift from Santa, and there’s even an opportunity to enjoy a hot chocolate and treats, making it a perfect festive outing for all ages.
Location: Fenwick, Newcastle
Dates: November – December 2024
Booking: Advance booking required. Visit Fenwick Santa on the Roof for details.
Selfridges Breakfast with Santa, Trafford Centre
Experience the magic of Christmas at Selfridges with the return of Breakfast with Santa! Children aged 2–10 are invited to enjoy a festive breakfast alongside Santa and Mrs. Claus, packed with delightful treats, entertainment, and special photo moments. Each child will leave with a gift from Santa to place under the Christmas tree, making it a memorable holiday experience. While adults are welcome to supervise, this year’s event is child-only, with tickets priced at £35 per child.
Location: Selfridges, Upper Level
Dates: Selected dates in December 2024
Booking: Required in advance. Visit Selfridges for details.
Wales Santa’s Grottos 2024
Zipmas 2024 at Zip World, Wales
Zipmas at Zip World is an exciting Christmas adventure that combines festive fun with thrilling activities. Families can enjoy a magical journey to meet Santa at T? Santa, passing through a snow-filled wonderland and the Elf Village. Children receive a personalized gift from Santa, while everyone can enjoy seasonal treats and fun-filled games, making it an unforgettable Christmas experience.
Location: Zip World, Wales
Dates: Selected dates in November and December 2024
Booking: Required in advance. Visit Zipmas 2024 for details.
Scotland Santa’s Grottos 2024
Woodland Santa Experience 2024, Loch Lomond
Immerse yourself in the enchanting Woodland Santa Experience at Woodland Experiences, Loch Lomond. This magical event takes families on a festive woodland walk, guided by twinkling lights, leading to Santa’s cozy cabin. Children can meet Santa and receive a special gift, while everyone enjoys the wintery atmosphere and seasonal treats. It’s a magical way to celebrate the holiday season with loved ones.
Location: Loch Lomond, Scotland
Dates: November – December 2024
Booking: Advance booking required. Visit Woodland Santa Experience for details.
Nationwide
Breakfast with Santa at Dobbies
Enjoy a magical morning with Santa at Dobbies Garden Centre’s “Breakfast with Santa” event. Families can indulge in a delicious breakfast while children meet Santa and receive a special gift. The experience also includes festive activities to keep the holiday spirit alive. It’s a perfect way to start the day and make cherished memories with the little ones. Some locations also offer a Santa Paws experience for pets, making it a perfect holiday outing for the entire family. Read our guide here.
Location: Various Dobbies Garden Centres
Dates: November – December 2024 (varies by location)
Booking: Advance booking required. Visit Dobbies Santa’s Grotto for details.
[…] Read next: Best Santa experiences and grottos 2024 […]
[…] Read next: Best Santa experiences and grottos 2024 […]
[…] The ultimate guide for 2024 Kendamil shortage: When will the baby formula be back in stock? Best Santa experiences and grottos 2024 Pumpkin patches near London: The best for 2024 Chica’s Halloween Tale: A Call for […]
[…] Read next: Best Santa experiences and grottos 2024 […]
[…] as one of the best Christmas experiences in the country, with specialist family websites like Parent News and Secret London including it in their round-up of the country’s […]
[…] Parents News UK has a Feature on Best Grottos […]