Quote from Beth Ashton on August 29, 2024, 1:01 pm

As Christmas approaches, towns and cities across the UK are gearing up to host some of the most magical Santa's Grottos you could imagine. Whether you’re in bustling London, the serene Scottish Highlands, or anywhere in between, there’s a grotto nearby where children can meet Father Christmas and immerse themselves in festive cheer. Here’s your guide to the best Santa's Grottos in the UK for 2024.

London and the South East

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. 

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.

Location: Hamleys, Regent Street, London
Dates: Select dates from late November to Christmas Eve
Booking: Advanced booking required. Get tickets to Hamley's Santa's Grotto.

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 required. 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.

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.

Location: Windsor
Dates: 30th November -  24th December
Booking: Advanced booking required. Get tickets to Shrek's Adventure at Christmas.

Midlands

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.

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.

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.