London Museum Docklands is turning festive this winter. A Victorian Santa’s grotto runs from 20 November to 23 December 2026, and a pirate-themed family rave takes place on 12 December. Grotto tickets start at £15, and rave tickets start at £9.
Victorian Santa’s grotto at London Museum Docklands
Families walk through the museum’s Sailortown gallery, which will be dressed up with Christmas decorations, falling snow and carols. At the end is Santa’s grotto, designed in a Dickensian style.
Every ticket includes time with Santa and a present to take home, chosen for the child’s age. The gifts are based on traditional Victorian toys and games. They’re made from classic materials and use very little plastic.
The museum says Santa may not look exactly how every child pictures him. It wants the experience to feel welcoming to every family.
When: 20 November to 23 December 2026, various times
Price: From £15
Pirate snowball family rave
Big Fish Little Fish are bringing their award-winning family raves back to the Docklands on Saturday 12 December, from 2pm to 4.30pm. This one has a pirate snowball theme.
DJ HiFi Sean will play disco, acid house, techno and more in the museum’s Grade I-listed warehouse. Away from the dance floor, there’s a snow-themed sensory room, festive crafts, a chill-out zone and a licensed bar. Expect balloons and bubbles too.
When: 12 December 2026, 2pm to 4.30pm
Price: From £9
Mudlarks family gallery
If you’re visiting with under-8s, the Mudlarks play gallery is open all year from 10am to 4pm. Children can drive a DLR train in the soft play area, steer ships around the water table and push cargo in wheelbarrows. Along the way, they learn what life was like for sailors and dock workers.
Places need to be booked in advance, from £3.95.
