Disney and Make-A-Wish UK have celebrated the 1,000th wish granted through “A Disney Wish”, a nine-day event at Wotton House Hotel near Dorking in Surrey that brings Disney magic to children living with serious illness and their families.
Now in its sixth year, the 2026 event will grant around 200 wishes. It is designed for children who, because of complex medical needs, are not always able to travel abroad to visit the Disney Parks.
Actor Hannah Waddingham, presenter Sian Welby and author Giovanna Fletcher joined wish children and their families to mark the milestone.
Inside A Disney Wish 2026
Wotton House Hotel has been transformed into an enchanted manor, with bespoke shows, character meet-ups and themed play areas inspired by Disney stories.
Highlights include a Frozen-inspired singalong show, story time with Belle from Beauty and the Beast, a Pixar-themed play zone and a training session inspired by Marvel Super Heroes.
Accessibility is at the heart of the experience. Live shows are signed in Makaton, there is an on-site sensory room, and the arts and crafts area is stocked with specially designed supplies so children of all abilities can join in. Months of planning go into making sure every child can take part, whatever their medical, physical or sensory needs.
Why it matters for families
The organisers say the event gives families a much-needed escape, helping to ease stress, build emotional resilience and offer hope during some of the hardest moments of their lives.
Hannah Waddingham, whose own daughter was very poorly when she was younger, said: “A Disney Wish takes you out of yourself, whether you’re a wish child or a wish parent, and I can’t think of a better place for seriously ill children to spend time with their families.”
Jason Suckley, Chief Executive of Make-A-Wish UK, said: “Behind that number are 1,000 children, each with their own story, personality and idea of what their wish should be.”
He added: “Critical illness can take so much away from childhood. A wish gives a child the chance to dream beyond their illness and experience something centred entirely around them.”
Deborah Armstrong, Country Manager for The Walt Disney Company UK and Ireland, has attended every year since the event began. She said that even as it has grown, every wish remains personal to the child and family at its heart.
A partnership spanning 45 years
Disney and Make-A-Wish have worked together for more than 45 years, granting over 175,000 wishes for seriously ill children around the world. Disney is the world’s largest wish granter and, on average, helps fulfil a wish every hour of every day.
The collaboration is part of the “Disney Moments That Matter” programme, which aims to bring joy, comfort and togetherness to children facing serious illness or social isolation.
To find out more about the charity’s work, visit Make-A-Wish UK.
