best place to visit santa london

Where To See Santa In London

Like many European cities, Christmas in London is beautiful, with Christmas markets and wintery wonderlands all over the city! Needless to say, it is a magical time for kids in London !

You may be wondering where to see Santa in London to get into the Christmas spirit! I have been searching high and low for the best Santa grottos in London.

So whether you are visiting the city, or live in the suburbs, I have covered all angles from Central to North, East, South and West London.

One thing to note is some of the Central London options are pretty expensive and are ticketed to only a certain number of people. Rest assured, there are many other options, so keep reading to find what suits you.

If you choose to see Santa in the centre, you can combine the day out with a walk to see some incredible light displays around London’s iconic streets.

I created this DIY London Christmas lights walking route , which covers all the best displays and is completely free ! Not to mention, many Christmas markets are also in Central London.

We have spent Christmas in many destinations over the years, but London is one of our favourite places over the festive period! Christmas time is quite remarkable in London, especially with kids .

Tourists visit London from around the globe to spend Christmas in the beautiful city.

Let’s get festive while discovering where to see Santa in London!

Santa Grotto in London

Table of Contents

Santa Grottos In Central London

1. santa’s grotto at winter wonderland, hyde park.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is one of the top attractions over the Christmas period for adults and kids alike.

Aside from the fun rides and festive markets, Santa has his very own grotto at Winter Wonderland.

Whilst booking entry to Winter Wonderland in advance is recommended, it’s impossible to book to see Santa at his Grotto.

You must buy a ticket to the park and then visit Santa. The grotto operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, I advise arriving early to avoid any queues.

It usually opens at 10 am when there will likely be few queues. Winter Wonderland gets quite busy in the evenings.

The grotto closes by 6 pm, but here is the best part, it is free to see Santa with a Winter Wonderland ticket. There is also a Santa parade with dates and timings listed on the official website worth keeping an eye on.

Santas Grotto is in Santaland, where there are several rides, some suitable for toddlers . Winter Wonderland transforms Hyde Park into a festive wonderland, so making a day of it is a good idea.

It features an array of other attractions, including an observation wheel, an ice skating rink, fun rides, and charming Christmas markets. It’s like a magical festive playground !

The park gets very busy, particularly during evenings, weekends, and school holidays.

You will also find plenty to eat and drink – grab a traditional mince pie and a glass of warm mulled wine or a hot chocolate.

Make sure to wrap up warm, as spending long periods at Winter Wonderland can be pretty chilly. London can be rainy or even snowy over this period.

Hyde Park is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest London Underground stations are Marble Arch, Hyde Park Corner, and Lancaster Gate, all served by the Central Line.

Paddington train station is also within walking distance, offering connections to other lines and national rail services.

Entry to Winter Wonderland is at least £5 per person except for some weekday visits at the beginning of the Christmas season in November. Most rides, attractions, and ice skating inside will also come with a fee.

Ice skating, in particular, is quite limited, so booking a slot online in advance is very much recommended.

Winter Wonderland is returning to Hyde Park in London in November. You can sign up for a newsletter on their website to get the latest updates on dates, events, tickets, and more.

2. Selfridges

Next on my list of where to see Santa in London is the well-known luxury department store, Selfridges.

The most popular Christmas event at Selfridges is a beautiful breakfast with Santa. Dates for this year aren’t available yet, but tickets will likely cost around £60.00 per person.

Selfridges is on Oxford Street, one of London’s major shopping destinations. Bond Street (Central and Jubilee Lines) and Marble Arch (Central Line) are the nearest underground stations to Selfridges. Both stations are within walking distance of Selfridges.

Selfridges is in the ideal spot to wander along Oxford Street, Carnaby Street and Regent Street to see the beautiful Christmas light installations.

3. John Lewis

In stores in London (e.g. the Oxford Street location) as well as across the UK, Santa will be visiting another popular British department store, John Lewis .

The most prominent John Lewis location (and the best place to see Santa) is Oxford Street.

Last year, children were given a ‘magic bean’ to plant in Santas Grotto. Not to mention a LEGO gift worth £10. Tickets were £20 per child, with two adults joining for free.

There are plenty of extras such as framed photos, baubles or snow globes with a photo inside at an additional cost.

Aside from the Santas Grotto and magic tree, there were a couple of other options, such as meeting Santa for a photo, including the LEGO gift, which cost £15.

The other option was a Santa’s tea party which included festive songs with his elves, storytime, a hot chocolate or juice, a festive snack and, of course, the LEGO gift. This option was also £15, however, there was a charge of £5 for adults, and the entire event lasted 45 minutes.

These different John Lewis events occurred in various London stores from Kingston to Oxford St and Brent Cross to Canary Wharf.

We are waiting for this year’s details to be released but are excited to hear what John Lewis has up their sleeve!

4. Fortnum & Mason

Always a favourite for tourists and locals at Christmas time, the famous Fortnum & Mason department store has a fabulous Christmas tradition of decorating the shop front from head to toe.

The storefront is always made to look like a colossal advent calendar.

Tickets to storytelling with Father Christmas at Fortnum & Mason are highly sought after and need to be booked as soon as they go on sale, so be sure to keep an eye out for updates on dates and ticket prices if you’re interested in going to this event.

Founded in 1707, Fortnum & Mason is a historic department store famous for its high-quality food and hampers. It sells a selection of luxury teas , chocolates, biscuits and preserves.

Fortnum & Mason is located on Piccadilly in central London, close to many of the fantastic family hotels . The nearest underground station is Piccadilly Circus. From there, it’s a short walk to the store.

5. Hamley’s

Hamley’s is the largest toy shop in London and a magical place to visit with children. Of course, Santa and his elves will be there in his grotto!

Being such a fantastic toy shop, Hamley’s is an enjoyable and popular place to visit at Christmas time.

There are often performances with elves and other Christmas characters right at the front door of Hamleys, which makes visits that extra bit special.

Be aware that the shop can get extremely busy during peak times in the evenings, weekends, and the school holidays.

The store is open until 9:00 PM every day, except Sundays when it closes at 6:00 PM. Most shops close slightly earlier on Sundays in London and the rest of the UK.

Tickets to see Santa last year cost £50 for three people, including a gift for little ones. Dates for when to visit Santa at Hamleys will be released soon.

Hamley’s is situated on Regent Street, near Oxford Circus. The nearest underground stations are Oxford Circus (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria Lines) and Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly Lines). Both stations are within walking distance of Hamley’s.

6. Leicester Square

Leicester Square in Central London is a must-see location for tourists all year round. It is extra magical at Christmas time when the restaurants and outlets around the square are transformed with pine trees, sparkly lights, decorations, and delicious smells as the Christmas Market comes to town.

As well as all the classic Christmas treats and attractions, the market has its own Santa Grotto, where you can meet Santa and receive a small gift.

Dates and prices for this year are yet to be announced.

To get there, you have a few options for public transport. You could head to Covent Garden tube station, which is only a short walk away.

7. The National Gallery

The National Gallery is home to a collection of art exhibitions, from Renaissance to Impressionist art. The gallery is free to visit and has many exhibitions, whilst others are ticketed.

Santa will visit the National Gallery every weekend from the end of November to the end of December, and tickets will go on sale in mid-October.

Last year, the gallery hosted a show called ‘The Picture Perfect Christmas’. It ran throughout December on selected dates or an hour. Although nothing is confirmed for this year just yet, we are excited to see if a show will be planned again this year.

The main entrance to the National Gallery can be found at the centre of the Gallery overlooking Trafalgar Square. There is another entrance on the East side of Trafalgar Square with step-free access.

Inside are two beautiful restaurants and an espresso bar if you want something delicious to eat and drink during your visit.

Trafalgar Square is a short journey from London Victoria. Take the Victoria Line to Oxford Circus, then change for the Bakerloo Line to Charing Cross. From there, it’s a 1-minute walk to the National Gallery.

Not to mention, Trafalgar Square often hosts Christmas carollers, especially on weekends. It’s a lovely spot at Christmas.

8. London Transport Museum

The London Transport Museum is a favourite of London’s many museums. Children can learn all about London’s trams, buses, tubes, and trains.

This is a great day out for little ones because there are so many interactive exhibitions at the museum to have fun and learn. At Christmas, it’s even more special because Santa comes to visit!

Prices and dates for where to see Santa in London aren’t yet available but will be updated here as soon as possible.

Harrods is our next top pick for where to see Santa in London. Christmas is arguably the best time of year to visit the store as it’s decorated head to toe with Christmas trees, lights, and ornate baubles.

It must be said that bagging a ticket to Harrods Santa Grotto in London is very difficult as tickets are limited and highly sought after. Only 160 families will be lucky enough to visit!

If you’d like to try to get one, tickets are usually released in mid-November and cost £20.00 per child.

If you cannot get a ticket to see Santa at Harrods, there are plenty of other locations on my list of where to see Santa in London.

As well as Santa’s Grotto, Harrods is home to a luxury Christmas shop with sparkly baubles, beautiful wreaths to decorate your door, and delicious, sweet treats to give as gifts to family and friends.

Why not pick up some luxury treats for dinner on Christmas day at the food court? Upstairs, the toy department is one of the most impressive and will make a fantastic day out for your little ones.

Harrods is located in Knightsbridge, a beautifully picturesque area to explore in Central London. If you’re travelling by public transport, take the Piccadilly Line to Knightsbridge tube station, then it’s a short walk to Harrods.

It is worth heading to Harrods after 4 pm to see the building lit up with fairy lights from outside.

Santa Grottos In North London

10. madame tussauds.

Madame Tussauds is a world-famous museum of life-sized wax figures of celebrities and, at Christmas time, you will find Santa here! Snap a selfie with Santa this Christmas at Madame Tussauds.

Book tickets online because Madame Tussauds is one of London’s most famous and popular attractions.

The attraction closes earlier than usual in the winter months, around 3 or 4 pm, because the days in the UK are shorter. Check out their opening times on the website to plan your visit.

To get to Madame Tussauds on public transport, the nearest tube station is Baker Street. The Bakerloo, Jubilee, Metropolitan, Circle, and Hammersmith & City Lines serve this station.

11. Alexandra Palace

Known by locals as “Ally Pally,” Alexandra Palace is a beautiful Grade II listed building in London, usually used as a venue for entertainment, live music, and sports. It’s also world-renowned for its beautiful architecture.

At Christmas time, however, it’s transformed into a festive attraction and is a great place to head to if you’re wondering where to see Santa in London.

Dates and times aren’t available this year, but last year’s entry was priced at £17.99.

Check out what’s on at Ally Pally website for the latest news on Santa’s Grotto.

At Christmas time, Ally Pally also hosts a beautiful outdoor ice rink in London. You may wish to combine your visit to Santa with an ice skating session.

Ice skating tickets are well sought-after, especially for evening sessions, so make sure to book your tickets well in advance of your visit to avoid disappointment.

If you’re travelling to Alexandra Palace on public transport, take the Piccadilly Line to Wood Green underground station. From there you can take a bus or taxi to Alexandra Palace.

Alternatively, you can take the Victoria Line to Finsbury Park station and then change for a Great Northern rail train to Alexandra Palace station. From there, it’s a 13-minute walk to Alexandra Palace.

12. Springtime Nurseries

Springtime Nurseries is a charming garden centre in Enfield. Browse a vast selection of plants, flowers, gardening supplies, and outdoor furniture.

In the winter months, this vibrant plant paradise also turns into Santa’s Grotto for families.

Exact dates and ticket prices are not yet available for Santa’s Grotto at Springtime Nurseries. This year will be updated a little later when Santa lets us all know when he’s visiting! Last year, entry for children cost around £15.

Enfield is in North London and on the Piccadilly line, or the overground train runs every 30 minutes from Liverpool Station to Enfield.

Click here to book your train tickets with the Trainline for the best prices.

East London Santas Grottos

13. museum of london docklands.

The Museum of London Docklands showcases the docks’ history and significance in the city’s development. The museum hosts fascinating exhibitions on trade, maritime history, and the impact of the Docklands area on London’s cultural heritage.

During the holiday season, the museum is transformed with lights and decorations. Meet Santa for 15 minutes and take a photo!

Entry to the museum costs £12.50 per child, and dates to meet Santa are yet to be announced for 2023. Watch for updates on when Santa and the elves will visit!

Last year, Santa’s Grotto was open on the following dates: 2nd-4th, 9th, 11th, 16th-23rd December.

The nearest underground station for the Museum of London Docklands is West India Quay, right next to the museum. To get there, head to Canary Wharf on the Jubilee Line. From there, you can change onto the DLR to West India Quay.

South London Santa Grottos

14. greenwich market.

Greenwich is a lovely neighbourhood on the River Thames in the South-East of London. Greenwich Market is renowned and loved by locals and tourists for its eclectic mix of arts, crafts, antiques, and street food.

Greenwich Market is transformed into a fantastic Christmas market at Christmas time in London. There are lovely gifts to buy, sweet treats and drinks to try, and Santa is there to be met!

Exact dates and ticket prices are not yet available for Santa’s Grotto at Greenwich Market in South-East London. Christmas markets in London usually run from mid-November to early January, just after New Year’s Eve.

If you’re travelling to Greenwich Market using public transport, the nearest station to the market is Cutty Sark, served by the DLR.

The DLR is relatively slow compared to the tube, but children will enjoy the views of London from the big windows!

Alternatively, you can get a train from London Bridge Station to Greenwich Station. It’s a short walk to the market from either of these stations.

You can head back into Central London using the Uber Boat on the River Thames, by far the most fun way to get around the city!

15. Royal Albert Hall

The Royal Albert Hall is a beautiful venue at Christmas time when it’s decorated and transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland. It’s another fantastic option for where to see Santa in London.

Exact dates and ticket prices are not yet available for Santa’s Grotto at the Royal Albert Hall, London. Make sure to keep an eye out for updates later in the year.

Please be aware that if you visit the area at Christmas, Hyde Park and the surrounding area and the tube stations will be much busier than usual due to the Winter Wonderland attraction at Hyde Park. Part of the park will also have no access.

If you prefer to take an alternative route, you can also reach the Royal Albert Hall from Leicester Square station (Northern and Piccadilly Lines).

16. Chessington World of Adventures

Also, South of London, you’ll find Chessington World of Adventures, one of London’s biggest and most popular theme parks, especially for younger children. This famous theme park is also a magical place to meet Santa in London in winter.

Whilst the theme park rides are closed in the winter months, at Christmas, you will find in its place Winters Trail, with Christmassy treats, a Gruffalo ride, and of course, a visit from Santa.

Children will be given a gift from Santa, while adults receive a complimentary hot drink and festive treat. To top off the day, Santa’s reindeer will also be there!

Be sure to book your visit in advance online. Admission to the grotto last year cost £20 per person when booked in advance online. Children under 12 months of age enter for free.

Check out tickets to London’s Chessington World of Adventures

17. Shrek’s Adventure

If your children are big fans of the Shrek movies, this will surely be the best Santa Grotto London for you and your family. Why not take the little ones to meet Shrek Santa at Shrek’s Adventure in his Shrek-themed Grotto this Christmas!

Shrek’s Adventure is an interactive fairytale experience where you can meet all your favourite characters from the movie and see a live show.

Dates and ticket prices are to be confirmed for this year, so keep an eye out for updates! Standard tickets start at £24 per adult when booked in advance online.

Shrek’s Adventure is located in the riverside building by Westminster Bridge on the Southbank of the River Thames. Head to London Waterloo station on the tube or train, and the Southbank is less than a 10 minute walk away.

If you’re travelling to Waterloo from elsewhere in the UK to see Santa in London, book train tickets with the Trainline!

Santa Grottos In West London

18. chelsea physic garden.

Chelsea Physic Garden is a Grade I listed park and garden, established in the 1600s to grow plants for medicinal and apothecary purposes.

The Chelsea Physic Garden is a short walk from Sloane Square tube station, which the District and Circle Lines serve.

Last year, entry to the Physic Garden to see Santa cost around £11 per child and £9 per accompanying adult. Exact dates and prices for 2023 will be available later in the year.

Chelsea is busy with Christmas activities all through the season, making it a must-visit location for where to see Santa in London. There is also a great range of shops and luxury Christmas shops around the area if you want to buy something special.

To get to the gardens from London Victoria, you can take a short bus journey (around 15 minutes) on route number 170 to Chelsea. Alternatively, if you’d rather travel by tube, take the District or Circle lines to Sloane Square and walk about 13 minutes to the gardens.

After visiting London Santa in Chelsea, check out one of the cute cafes in Chelsea or travel slightly north to Notting Hill. These are some of London’s trendiest areas, making for a great Christmas-time walk with hot chocolate.

19. Chelsea Christmas Grotto

Nestled in West London’s Sloane Square is the annual Chelsea Christmas Grotto. As well as meeting Santa, this Christmassy affair offers festive treats, story time, and a Bavarian curling rink!

Children visiting Santa and his elves will receive a small gift.

Dates and prices aren’t available yet, but more information is coming soon on their website .

20. Chelsea Christmas Lights

Also, in Chelsea in West London, Santa will visit to turn on the Christmas lights at Duke of York Square.

Christmas lights are a prevalent tradition in the UK, with many people gathering to see them turned on, often by a celebrity or local public figure. This year in Chelsea, it will be Father Christmas pushing the button!

Exact dates will be released later in the year, and updates will be provided when possible.

21. Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is one of the best places to see Santa in London at Christmas. The entire gardens are transformed into a magical Christmas light walkway and wonderland. To top it off, Kew Gardens host their own Santa’s Grotto.

This year, Christmas dates at Kew Gardens are from 15 th November 2023 to 7 th January 2024, with adult tickets starting at £21.50. Children’s entry costs around £14, depending on age.

Make sure to book your tickets in advance online, as Kew Gardens can get very busy, so you may not be guaranteed entry without a booking.

The gardens are in the South-West of the City, near Richmond. To get there on public transport, the nearest underground station is Kew Gardens which the District Line and London Overground serve. From the station, it’s a short walk to the entrance of Kew Gardens.

From Waterloo, you can take the South Western Railway to Kew Bridge, which is also within walking distance of the gardens.

If you’re taking the South Western Railway, make sure to book with the Trainline . Get the best prices, including railcard discounts, and store your tickets in their convenient app.

To Summarize Where To See Santa In London

Using these recommendations, you will find somewhere magical to visit Santa in London this year! London is a fantastic place to visit with children as there are many attractions and things to see and do.

If you’re going to be visiting a few of the must-see attractions, then make sure to find discounted tickets using one of the following providers:

With a Go City London Pass , you can visit multiple attractions with one discounted ticket.

Tickets to attractions and theatre shows are available at discounted rates on Attractiontix. Click here to make your booking today!

While you are in London, I recommend the hop on hop off bus tour as it’s a fantastic and fun way to see so much of the city!

Disclaimer: This post about where to see Santa in London contains affiliate links. By using them, it will not cost you any extra, we will receive a small commission to keep us writing.

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Where to see Santa in London: 19 Christmas days out

As the days get colder and the nights get longer in the city, that can mean only one thing – it’s time to work out where to see Santa in London. UPDATED FOR 2023.

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And whether you fancy heading to a traditional department store, eating with the man in red, finding him on board a steam train, tube train, in a museum, gallery, market or Santa’s grotto in London, the real question isn’t where to meet Santa in London, it’s which one tempts you most.

With cheap and free places to meet Santa, as well as memorable experiences if you’re looking to splurge, I’ve rounded up 19 of the best places to see Santa in London this Christmas.

Contents - click to jump to a section

Where better to meet Santa in London than in the world’s oldest and largest toy store? It’s as close to the North Pole workshop as you can get!

Hamleys Toy Shop offers a magical Santa’s Grotto experience for families, where children can meet Santa Claus and his elves and receive a personalised Hamleys gift bag. Aimed at kids aged 2-8, there’s a brand new grotto for 2023, with elves to welcome you to his elf workshop and treats to take home.

The private 15-minute Santa’s Grotto experience costs from £55 for a group of 3 people, then from £15 for each additional person up to a maximum group of 6 (including adults). The dates closer to Christmas cost more up to £100 for four people in the week from December 16. Pre-booking is essential and tickets are available to book from October 16.

Where : 188- 196 Regent Street, London.

When : Select dates from November 20 to December 24.

For more of the best things to do at Christmas in London with kids , check out my top picks

Winter Wonderland Hyde Park

There’s more than just Santa at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, with one of London’s biggest Christmas markets, an ice rink, rides, food and a whole lot more.

But it’s also one of the best places to see Santa in London at Santa Land , including a free gift for kids. Included in entry to Winter Wonderland, it’s first come first served so you may have to queue and it’s a good plan to get there early.

Check out the Christmas tree ride, ice slide and the snow sculptures of the Magical Ice Kingdom while you’re there too, as well as Santa’s parade on some days.

Prices start from £5 for standard entry, although there are some off-peak morning sessions where it’s still free to visit Winter Wonderland. If you prebook rides, attractions and games worth £25 in advance, your entry ticket is also free.

Where: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland (What Three Words location ///ties.sunk.intelligible )

When : From November 17, 2023 to January 1, 2024. Watch out for Santa’s parade at 5pm on November 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29, and December 4, 5, 6.

For more of the best Christmas markets in London with kids , check out my top picks

London Zoo’s Magic of Christmas event features Christmas-themed animal talks, animal crafts, cookie decorating, and more. There’s also the opportunity for kids to meet Santa in his Grotto in the middle of the zoo and receive a special gift to take home.

While most seasonal activities are included with entry throughout December, the Zoo’s “Meet Santa” sessions only take place on certain dates and need to be booked in advance and paid for separately.

You can sign up to be the first to hear when tickets to Santa’s Grotto at London Zoo are available – 2023 costs tbc but previously cost £15 per child.

Where : Regent’s Park, London. 

When : November 26, 2023, to January 1, 2024

London Transport Museum

Each December, the London Transport Museum organises a special Christmas event for families, which gives kids the chance to meet Santa Claus in his Grotto and receive a small London transport-themed gift. 

All Christmas activities, including meeting Santa, are included in the museum entrance ticket and kids under 17 go free, making it one of the cheapest places to see Santa in London.

There’s no need to book tickets in advance, but there might be a small queue during busy times.

Where : Covent Garden Piazza, London.

When : From November 24 to January 4, 2024

Check what we thought of a Christmas day out at the London Transport Museum

Santa Steam Express, London

The only Santa steam train experience in London, the Santa Steam Express sets off on a festive journey from Victoria station, including a chance to meet the big man himself on board.

As well as puzzles and games for kids, plus a singsong with the elves, both Mrs Claus and Santa make their way through the carriages during the Steam Dreams experience.

Kids also go home with a gift after the 75-minute steam train journey, as well as plenty of other treats on board. Tickets cost from £65 for adults and kids.

Where: From Victoria station

When : Various times on December 15, 18 and 21, 2023

The National Gallery

2023 TBC The National Gallery usually hosts an annual family-friendly event where kids can meet Santa Claus and take part in festive craft workshops and storytelling sessions.

Admission to the gallery itself is free, but there is an additional fee for the “Meet Santa Experience” and you will need to book in advance.

Tickets normally cost £20 for children under 12 and include a special Christmas gift. Adults and children 12+ can also enjoy Santa’s Grotto and some festive treats for £10 each.

Last year, the National Gallery replaced the straightforward Santa meeting with their special festive event, A Picture Perfect Christmas

Where : Trafalgar Square, London. 

When : Select dates in December (exact 2023 dates TBC).

Museum of London Docklands

For something a little different, head to the Museum of London Docklands for their Dickensian-style Victorian Santa’s Grotto, featuring vintage decorations and 19th-century Christmas carols.

For £13.50 per child, little ones can meet Santa in his Victorian Grotto, take some photos, and receive a special present.

Admission to the museum itself is free for the rest of the family. Pre-booking to see Santa is recommended but some tickets may be available on the day.

Where : 1 West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London.

When : Select dates from December 2-23.

For more of the attractions at the Museum of London Docklands , check out my review

Jingle Bell Blast from Thames Rockets

Another of the most unusual places to meet Santa in London is on a speedboat on the River Thames with The Jingle Bell Blast by Thames Rockets.

The thrilling speedboat ride takes you past the many city’s top landmarks, while a friendly elf gets everyone singing cheerful Christmas carols. On weekends through December, kids will also get to meet Santa who comes on board bearing festive treats for everyone.

The Jingle Bell Blast sells out quickly, particularly for weekend rides, so you’ll need to book as far in advance as possible. Meeting Santa is included in the experience ticket price – keep an eye out for tickets on the tiqets website as well, with a discount if you book through my link using the code MUMMYTRAVELS6

Where : Boarding Gate One, The London Eye Pier, London

When : Saturdays in December, from December 2-23, 2023

2023 TBC One of London’s most famous department stores, Selfridges usually offers families the opportunity to have breakfast with Santa, Mrs Claus, and their trusty elves in a magical winter wonderland. 

The breakfast with Santa experience previously cost £60 per person and includes a delicious breakfast of sweet and savoury dishes, hot drinks, and a personalised Christmas gift for little ones.

Pre-booking is necessary for the entire family. There are several time slots each morning throughout most of December.

Where : 400 Oxford Street, London 

When : December (exact 2023 dates TBC).

Alexandra Palace

2023 TBC Mr Claus usually likes to swap the North Pole for North London and set up a Grotto in the East Court of Alexandra Palace , where children can meet Santa, take a festive photo, and receive a small Christmas gift.

Tickets cost £15 per child under 16 and you’ll need to book a slot in advance. Adults can visit the Grotto for free with a child, but you’ll still need to add each adult to the booking. 

Plus, don’t miss the chance to go ice skating at Alexandra Palace after you meet Santa for the ultimate festive day out in North London.

Where : Alexandra Palace Way, London.

For more ideas of the best ice rinks in London with kids , check out my tips for some festive favourites

Royal Albert Hall

2023 TBC. Each December, there’s a string of special Christmas events at London’s Royal Albert Hall and you’ll often find Father Christmas reading his favourite holiday stories to little guests on the venue’s festive North Pole Street.

The storytelling sessions cost £21.50 per child and include time to take a photo with Santa and a gift for each child. The sessions tend to sell out, so it’s best to book in advance.

Where : Kensington Gore, London.

When : Late November to December (exact 2023 dates TBC).

Fortnum & Mason

NOW SOLD OUT Luxury department store Fortnum & Mason is one of London’s most popular destinations during the holidays, thanks to its amazing decorations and beautiful gift selection.

The store also offers “Storytelling with Father Christmas” sessions for kids, in which Santa will read one of his favourite Christmas books and give little ones a very special F&M goodie bag.

There’s a limit of 12 children per session and spaces often book up far in advance, usually within hours of tickets going on sale. Tickets start at £40 per child and go on sale in early September (at 7.30am on September 8, 2023), so book as early as you can to ensure a spot.

Where : 181 Piccadilly, London.

When : November 25 to December 24, 2023.

Kew Gardens

During the holidays, Kew Gardens is transformed into one of London’s most magical winter wonderlands, with an amazing festive light trail and tasty street food of Christmas at Kew – often with the chance to see Santa Claus along the way.

In the past, the event has featured a small Santa’s Grotto along the festive trail which you’ll need to pay an additional fee of £2 to visit, on top of the regular entrance fee for the event. The Grotto has not been confirmed for 2023 but you will be able to spot Father Christmas as you wander along the trail.

Where : Richmond, Surrey, London.

When : November 15, 2023 to January 7, 2024.

For more great festive light trails in London with kids , check out my pick of the best

Springtime Nurseries

While it may be less well known than other locations on this list, Springtime Nurseries in Enfield is actually home to one of the biggest and most magical Santa’s Grottos in London.

The north London Christmas Wonderland includes an exciting train ride through magical wintery scenes and a reindeer forest, before arriving in the Ice Kingdom at the North Pole to visit Santa himself.

The whole experience costs £14.95 per child and includes a choice of present from Santa’s toyshop. Adults can also join on the train for just £3.95. 

You can turn up and buy tickets on the day. But during peak times, the queue to ride the train can be extremely long (up to 1-2 hour wait). Alternatively, you can pre-book a fast-track ticket in advance for just a small amount more – £15.95 for kids, the same price for adults.

Where : Crews Hill, Enfield, London.

When : November 10 to December 24, 2023.

For more Santa train experiences , check out my pick of the best around the UK, including London’s Santa Steam Express

Christmas Shrektacular Experience at Shrek’s Adventure! London

For fans of everyone’s favourite green ogre, check out the Shrektacular Grotto at Shrek’s Adventure ! London, where kids can head deep into the swamp to meet Shrek Santa in his finest Christmas gear and pose for a fun photo.

The unique Grotto is only open on select days throughout December and is included in the regular admission price of £30 for adults and £24 for children.

Where : Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London 

When : Entrance to Shrek Santa Christmas experience is included on December 3, 4, 10, 11 and 17-24, 2023.

Find discounted tickets on selected dates until the end of 2023 if you book by September 30, saving £12 on entry – excludes Saturdays and school holidays. Click here to get the deal

The Night Before Christmas in Mayfair

There’s a brand new grotto experience in Mayfair this year which has the added Christmassy bonus of spreading some joy and helping those less fortunate.

The Night Before Christmas is being run by Rise.LND in partnership with Mercato Metropolitano in Mayfair , and the 40-minute experience mixes interactive storytelling with a chance to meet Father Christmas and receive a gift.

Set on a cold snowy Christmas Eve in Mayfair, a family is settling down for storytime in their small flat, only to discover this night will turn out to be more magical than any of them expect.

Tickets cost from £21.29 for children and one accompanying adult, including booking fee. Tickets for additional adults cost £11.55 including booking fee. Money from the ticket sales will go to funding visits for children from local hospitals and those from underprivileged backgrounds.

The company also works with local charities and special needs schools in the Westminster area to host children with SEN, and some timeslots have wheelchair access

Where : Mercato Metropolitano Mayfair, North Audley Street, between Marble Arch and Bond Street tubes – save some time for a browse before or after the show, with food and drink and other handmade goods.

When : The event runs on select weekend dates from November 18 to December 24

Santa at Greenwich

2023 TBC. Greenwich market  transforms itself each year for Christmas, with the Greenwich Children’s Lantern Procession to kick everything off on November 15.

Led by local children holding their own lanterns, Santa often makes an appearance before settling in to the Greenwich market grotto for the rest of the festive season.

Tickets cost £10, and you do need to prebook.

Where: Greenwich Market, Durnford Street, Greenwich.

When : Mid November to around Christmas Eve (exact 2023 dates TBC)

Chelsea Christmas Grotto

2023 TBC. For the perfect Christmas day out in West London, head to the magical Chelsea Christmas Grotto in Sloane Square, where children can meet Santa and receive a special festive gift straight from the elves’ workshop.

Tickets to visit the Grotto cost £15 per child, including a 50p charity donation. Kids and their accompanying adult will join a 25-minute small group session to meet Father Christmas.

The man in red will also be turning on the Chelsea Christmas lights at the annual light switch celebrations in late November, and in 2022, there was also a Bavarian curling rink.

Where : Sloane Square, London.

When : 2023 dates tbc. Previously it has taken place on weekends from mid November to mid December, and daily from the week running up to Christmas.

2023 TBC. There’s no doubt that Harrods Grotto is one of the best Santa experiences in the city, with its stunning decorations, authentic Santa, and lovely Harrods branded teddy bear for each child who visits.

But unfortunately, it’s now also one of the most exclusive places to see Santa in London. The Grotto used to be free for everyone, then by invitation only for members who have spent £2,000+ in the store in the last year.

Or you need to be one of the 160 lucky families to get a ticket when they’re released to the public – and you still need to pay £20 per child.

So unless you’re a regular Harrods shopper, I wouldn’t hold out too much hope for this one.

After being cancelled two years running because of Covid, it also didn’t take place in 2022, so there’s no guarantee he’ll return for 2023 either.

Where : 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London. 

When : Previously late November to December (exact 2023 dates TBC).

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission

Main image/Winter Wonderland/Santa with letter/Royal Albert Hall/Santa with presents courtesy of Depositphotos, Santa Steam Express courtesy Steam Dreams, Christmas at Kew: Jeff Eden/RBG Kew, all others copyright MummyTravels

Award-winning family travel blogger and mum to the mini traveller, aka Minnie. Together we've visited Europe, America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, tried a cruise and a road trip, and survived countless long-haul trips. London (UK) based. Serious beach habit.

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Inspire Your Trip

10 Best Places to See Santa in London for Christmas 2023

A trip to the English capital at Christmas is a special experience and if you asked a child who they love more than anybody during the month of December, they’d probably say Father Christmas.

Such is the build-up for the day when the Man In Red heaves his ample body down the chimney that kids are virtually at fever pitch by the time Christmas eve arrives.

Father Christmas represents something magical and wondrous and innocent… so it’s up to mums and dads to keep the excitement alive by sorting out plenty of encounters with quality-controlled Mr Claus’s.

Here are the best places to meet him in London this festive season:

1. Santa’s Reindeer Lodge, London Zoo Entry to zoo + £5 per child for the “Meet Santa” experience: Visit Santa in his custom-designed grotto built in a fairytale setting — and enjoy meeting his reindeer herd. Each child will receive a special gift and there is a chance to buy a photo.

2. Harrods Christmas Grotto, Harrods, Knightsbridge £10 booking fee: Harrods Christmas Grotto is a legendary, magical event. The daddy of all grottos, tickets for which sell like hot mince pies long before the festive season really starts. Book early (but beware the booking process is beyond complicated).

3. Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Selfridges, Oxford Street £3 per child, £7 per adult (plus £2.50 booking fee): Journey over ice-capped bridges, visit the wish fairy and play in real snow. Receive a gift from Santa in his spectacular ice-grotto and dodge snowballs from the cheeky snowman on the way out.

4. Father Christmas’s Grotto, Kew Gardens Included in admission price £13.90, £11.90 concs, accompanied under-17s free: The grotto, in the Princess of Wales Conservatory, is one of many festive attractions, including a carousel on Kew Palace Lawn (£2) and seasonal face painting at Climbers and Creepers (£4).

5. Meet Father Christmas, Hamleys (Regent Street) £45 per child: A chance to have breakfast, brunch, lunch or tea with Father Christmas! Elves welcome guests, who enjoy scrumptious food, Christmas activities and a chat with Father Christmas, as well as a gift to take home.

6. The Enchanted Christmas House, London Art House £49 per person or £159 per family: Journey through The Garden of Winter Wonder, The Gingerbread Kitchen, Mrs Claus’s sitting room, Santa’s Grotto, The Busy Elves Workshop. Also included, a Christmas play and a festive meal.

7. Lapland UK, Bewl Water Estate, Kent £44.50-£62.50 plus booking fee: Visit Santa’s toy factory to help the elves and Mother Christmas’s Kitchen to decorate gingerbread — and enjoy a special meeting with the man in red (with gift). Other fun includes ice skating and meeting Santa’s reindeer and huskies.

Further Afield

These are some other top locations to see Santa in England:

Meet Santa & His Reindeer, Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable, Bedfordshire Entry to zoo + £5 (free for under 2s): Visit Santa in his grotto in the zoo’s parklands. Children get to meet real reindeer, share their Christmas wish-list with Santa and receive a special gift to take home.

North Norfolk Railway Santa Specials, Sheringham From £13 (plus £2 admin charge): Depart from Sheringham station and travel by steam train while tucking into sherry and mince pies for adults and biscuits and drinks for kids. By his open fire at Weybourne station, Santa meets the children and gives them each a special present before the return journey.

Santa’s Christmas Wonderland, Paulton’s Park, Romsey, The New Forest £21: Journey into a magical world of fun and song, with adorable animated characters mingling with you in an enchanted snow scene. Children meet Santa Claus and receive a present. Ticket includes entrance to Peppa Pig World and many of the park’s rides.

* Please note, prices and locations are subject to change.

Related articles:

• Top tips for visiting Lapland for the first time • Best Christmas markets to visit in Europe

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Santa’s grottos in London

Everybody’s desperate to meet the beardy man with the prezzies – here’s where to find Father Christmas in London

Christmas comes but once a year. So you may as well give in to pester power and give your little ’uns a one-on-one audience with the big man himself, Santa. London's best Santa's grottos are full of friendly elves, magical Christmas decorations, and presents for kids willing to promise they've been good. This Christmas , Santa will have his work cut out flitting from London Zoo to Winter Wonderland to Kew and beyond, ho-ho-hoing and dishing out gifts to the capital’s over-excited children.

But, don’t get caught short. There’s only so much Santa to go around so it’s more important than ever to book your kids a slot with ol’ Saint Nick in advance to avoid tears and tantrums. Here are some spots to try. 

RECOMMENDED: Find more festive fun with our guide to Christmas in London .

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Find more kids’ Christmas fun in London

Best London Christmas activities for children

December is never more exciting than when you’re littler than Santa’s elves. Your kids have been waiting for this all year: help to make their festive dreams come true at these great Christmas events for children. And you can have lots of wintry fun at London’s ice rinks, Santa’s grottos, Xmas lights and Christmas theatre shows too.

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17 Of The Best Santa’s Grottos In London To Visit This Christmas

From one-day events at Hammersmith Christmas Market to Shrek-themed ones, here are all the best places to meet Father Christmas in London this festive season.

It’s that time of year when the big man comes into town on a sleigh with reindeers, and whether you’ve been naughty or nice, there are plenty of places where you can meet him this year. So without further ado, if you’re looking for things to do this Crimbo , then here are 17 of the best Santa’s grottos in London to visit:

1. Shrek’s Grotto at Shrek’s Adventure!

London’s South Bank has a new guest coming to town, as Shrek’s Adventure! London announces that Shrek’s Grotto, inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s beloved franchise, will return to Far Far Away this festive season. For kids and grown-ups looking for some much-needed yuletide cheer, the big green ogre has teamed-up with Santa to create a festive misadventure the whole family will love.

Guests who visit Shrek’s Adventure! London on selected days between December 3 and 24 will get the chance to meet their very own Shrek Santa and pose for a picture with him to mark the occasion. Plus, guests will also be given a candy treat – and it’s all included within the standard ticket price. Now that’s what we call Christmas spirit. You can find out more here .

📍 You’ll find Shrek’s Grotto at the Riverside Building, County H all, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB.

🚇 Nearest station is Waterloo.

2. Vauxhall City Farm

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vauxhall City Farm (@vauxhallfarm)

This lovely farm in Vauxhall is home to everything from chickens and chinchillas to sheep and goats. Heck, there’s even a pair of alpacas who starred in none other than Star Wars: The Force Awakens ! And if that wasn’t exciting enough, this festive season Santa Claus is also making his way into town!

The big man will be welcoming families into his cosy grotto where all children will receive a Christmas present and can take a photo with him. The grotto and children’s gifts have been generously provided by Citywire and Walker Books, and entry is £8 per child – plus adults are free! The grotto itself is open on weekends in December from 11am to 3pm ( booking is essential ), and they’ve also got a winter lights trail, a wreath–making workshop and a Christmas market to boot here too.

📍 You’ll find Vauxhall City Farm at 165 Tyers Street, London, SE11 5HS.

🚇 Nearest station is Vauxhall.

3. Christmas at the London Transport Museum

View this post on Instagram A post shared by London Transport Museum (@ltmuseum)

All aboard the train to meet Santa Claus! Yep – you read that right. Santa’s landing in his sleigh in the London Transport Museum’s twinkling winter wonderland to meet families from November 24 until December 23 this year. He’ll be taking pride of place aboard the museum’s Routemaster-inspired sleigh, and children will be able to flash the headlights, ring the bell and set the Christmas cheer-o-meter too!

But that’s not all they’ve got – there are also a whole range of family-friendly activities on the bill this festive season too. Cosy up for some fun Christmas stories in ‘the den’, test your creativity with wintery arts and crafts and weave your way through the museum’s exhibitions following a fascinating story trail. Even better – kids go free!

📍 You’ll find the London Transport Museum at Covent Garden, London, WC2E 7BB.

🚇 Nearest station is Covent Garden.

4. Santa’s Grotto at Alexandra Palace

View this post on Instagram

Santa Claus is swapping the North Pole for North London this year as he sets up camp in the East Court this December at one of the best Santa’s grottos in London.

Little ones are treated to a meeting with Santa, a small pressie, plus the opportunity to have their photo taken with Santa in his festive grotto. Sounds like the Christmas cheer we all need to be honest.

📍 You’ll find Santa’s Grotto at Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, N22 7AY.

🚇 Nearest station is Alexandra Palace.

5. The Magic of Christmas at London Zoo

Little ones can join in festive crafts before meeting Santa in his magical grotto right at the very heart of the zoo . From 25 ft Christmas trees to festive food and drink (including marshmallow toasting around the zoo’s cosy fire pits). Keep your eyes peeled for the big man himself, as Santa will be popping up around the zoo throughout the day to feed some of the resident animals here and if you’re lucky, you might just spot him!

📍 You’ll find The Magic of Christmas at the ZSL London Zoo at the Outer Circle, NW1 4RY.

🚇 Nearest station is Camden Town.

6. Santa’s Grotto at Camden Market

Listen up folks! This year, everyone’s favourite street food market in Camden will be whipping up a whole load of festive cheer with their Christmas makeover, which kicks off on Saturday December 2. The Santa’s grotto in question will lie right at the heart of Hawley Wharf, whilst Santa’s elves, entertainers, and stilt walkers will be on hand to create enchanting moments for all ages as they wander around.

Plus, if that wasn’t enough, then Thursdays at North Yard will offer an evening escape with Après Ski vibes, DJs, and roaming musicians, whilst Saturdays feature more festive tunes from singer-songwriters performing gigs at the Lock and Stables. Guests can also indulge in Humble Crumble’s Christmas specials and The Lucky Club’s festive fondue platter. Phew!

📍 You’ll find Camden Market at Camden Lock Place, London, NW1 8AF.

🚇 Nearest stations are Camden Town, Camden Road and Chalk Farm.

7. Santa’s Grotto at Hamleys Regent Street

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hamleys Toy Shop (@hamleysofficial)

Ho, Ho, Ho, Merry Christmas! Now this place needs no introduction. A haven for kids both small and large at any time of year given the plethora of toys on offer to purchase, it’s now got even more magical to the in-house Santa’s grotto, one of the best Santa’s grottos in London for 2023 we’d argue. Enchanted elves will be on hand to make your time with Jolly St. Nick even more special, and there’s even a gift waiting for you during your visit.

For something even more magical, make your way to the iconic Ritz Hotel for another Hamleys-infused grotto in a proud collaboration with Great Ormond Street Hospital – ’tis the season for magic after all.

📍 You’ll find Santa’s Grotto on the third floor of Hamleys Regent Street, London, W1B 5BT.

🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.

8. Christmas Grotto at St. Pancras International

For those planning family days out as we approach the festive season need look no further than this one! From now until December 23, you’ll be able to step into a Christmas Wonderland at St. Pancras International’s Christmas Grotto, in collaboration with luxury events planner Sharky and George.

Within this magical book-themed grotto which is open at the weekends , children and adults will be able to meet Father Christmas, hang out with his elves, decorate their very own Christmas decorations and access exclusive discounts for Kings Cross St. Pancras International retailers such as Hamleys, Hatchards and Searcys. It’s the perfect family day out we’d argue! You can get a hold of your tickets here .

📍 You’ll find the Christmas Grotto at St. Pancras International at The Grand Terrace, St. Pancras International Station, Euston Road, London, N1C 4QP.

🚇 Nearest station is King’s Cross St. Pancras.

9. Winter Wonderland

Santaland, where all days are merry and bright, hosts the magical Santa’s Grotto once again at Winter Wonderland, plus many delicious food and drink options for all the family. New this year, Santaland is offering you the chance to enjoy u nlimited access to over 15 Santaland rides for the price of just £25, including entry to Winter Wonderland too.

The year also sees the return of the UK’s largest open-air ice rink , Zippo’s Christmas Circus, Bar Ice, ice sculpting workshops and hair-raising rides too. You’re absolutely spoiled for choice!

📍 You’ll find Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, W2 2UH.

🚇 Nearest stations are Hyde Park Corner and Marble Arch.

10. A Grotto Of Her Own at King’s Cross

View this post on Instagram A post shared by A Grotto of Her Own (@agrottoofherown)

Now this one’s a bit different, it has to be said! New feminist art collective Sisterland has announced its first project, billed ‘A Grotto of Her Own’. In this tongue-in-cheek reimagining of the classic Christmas tale, Santa’s wife wakes up one day and realises she’s had enough of being somebody’s sidekick… and that it’s time for ‘A Grotto of Her Own’. This alternative Christmas pop-up will welcome visitors on a voyage of discovery via a stunning walk-through*ahem* festive vagina .

Visitors are invited to bring their chosen family and explore this unique art installation in an ex-barber’s shop on York Way and then stay to make their own artistic response – whether that’s writing an alternative letter to Santa or creating their own labial imagery. We’re certainly more than intrigued, but maybe not one to bring the kids along to…

📍 You’ll find A Grotto of Her Own at 167 York Way, London, N7 9LN.

🚇 Nearest station is Caledonian Road.

11. Santa’s Grotto at Rollerscape

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ROLLERSCAPEldn (@rollerscapeldn)

If you’re looking for a Santa’s grotto in London which is really going to bring the fun, then you should look no further than this one. Taking the floor for a limited-time only before the legendary theatre show Starlight Express graces the stage in Summer 2024, Rollerscape will offer a seasonal escape this winter, with an indoor roller rink adorned with a ceiling of sparkling disco balls and a Santa’s grotto photo opportunity for the family.

Outdoors, guests can cosy up on the heated terrace next to the alpine lodge and barrel fire pit, whilst indulging in marshmallow toasting and sipping on a delightful array of festive beverages amidst the enchanting festoon-lit terrace, surrounded by real Christmas trees . There’s even a ‘Skate with Santa’ for the younger guests – sign us up!

📍 You’ll find Rollerscape at The Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, 3 Fulton Road, Wembley Park, Wembley, HA9 0SP.

🚇 Nearest station is Wembley Park.

12. Christmas at the Peak: The Wintermas Festival

The UK’s first open world immersive theme park , Phantom Peak in Canada Water, is launching their seasonal extravaganza billed as ‘The Wintermas Festival: Christmas at the Peak’. Step into the winter wonderland of Phantom Peak as the ‘Wintermas Games’ are underway, offering a new challenge to tourists and townsfolk… Explore a brand-new area of the town, play holiday games and events, meet ‘Father Platmus’ in his Wintermas grotto, and uncover the secrets of Phantom Peak in an array of new and exciting holiday trails.

Expect Christmas decorations galore, carol singing , carnival games, a whole slate of festive mysteries and of course, that Christmas grotto – it’s the ultimate Christmas experience, right?

📍 You’ll find Christmas at the Peak: The Wintermass Festival at The Southwark Construction Skills Centre, Canada Street & Surrey Quays Road, London, SE16 7PJ.

🚇 Nearest stations are Surrey Quays and Canada Water.

13. The Giving Grotto by Krispy Kreme

Now, Christmas is the season for giving right? So what better way to get into the spirit than by actively giving your friends, family and loved ones some Krispy Kreme doughnuts , hey?!

Another one of the best Santa grottos in London this Christmas, this one is billed as the ‘Giving Grotto’, allowing customers the chance to visit Santa for free and let him in on a secret – which one of their loved ones deserves a year’s supply of doughnuts? Lucky winners will be selected at random, and grotto-goers will also be given the option to donate their prize to the charity ‘Make-A-Wish UK’, who will use the doughnuts to spread joy at events they host throughout 2024. Plus, the first 100 people visiting will receive a box of four donuts themselves… winner, winner. The queue opens at 10am on Sunday December 3, so best of luck!

📍 You’ll find The Giving Grotto by Krispy Kreme at Unit K02 16a The Arcade, Westfield Stratford City, London, E20 1EH.

🚇 Nearest stations are Stratford and Stratford International.

14. Santa’s Grotto at Ealing Broadway

Ealing Broadway officially kicked off its jam-packed schedule of festive fun on November 18, with a range of events for the whole family to enjoy. This year, as well as a Christmas market, live music and a whole host of festive street food, they’re also offering families the opportunity to meet Santa and his elves on selected days from now December 24.

From £7 per child, a visit to Santa’s Grotto will not only include a chance for little ones to make their Christmas wishes, but they’ll also receive an early festive treat from Santa himself. Plus, the whole of the shopping centre will be showered with some gorgeous snowflakes from 4pm each day – the perfect chance to snap a festive selfie! Tickets will need to be purchased in advance here.

📍 You’ll find the Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre at The Broadway, London, W5 5JY.

🚇 Nearest station is Ealing Broadway.

15. Hammersmith Christmas Market

Get into the festive vibes at the Hammersmith Christmas Market for one day only – this Saturday November 25 – which rounds off our list of the best Santa’s grottos in London this year . The traffic-free event in King Street and Lyric Square will be full of more than 100 stalls filled with seasonal food, drink, gifts and entertainment plus a Santa’s grotto and more.

Live performances here include a Kylie Minogue tribute act, Christmas tunes and carols, and there’s elves, living lampposts and Santa himself too (of course).

📍 You’ll find Hammersmith Christmas Market at King Street and Lyric Square, W6.

🚇 Nearest stations are Hammersmith and Ravenscourt Park.

16. Santa’s Grotto at Woolwich Works

If you’re wanting to make your children’s dreams come true, then make sure you head to Woolwich Works on Saturdays and Sundays in December and meet Santa himself! They’ll be able to share their Christmas wishes with Santa, receive a special gift from the big guy himself and experience the true magic of the holiday season.

With a photo opportunity with Father Christmas and his smiling elves, and the option for a personalised Christmas bauble, Woolwich Works is the place to be for families looking to create treasured memories and embrace the true spirit of Crimbo this year! They’ve also got mulled wine, a festive grotto and even a smash-hit production of the classic storybook ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ with performances at 11am and 2pm on Friday December 1.

📍 You’ll find Woolwich Works at The Fireworks Factory, 11 No 1 Street, Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6HD.

🚇 Nearest station is Woolwich Arsenal.

17. Livat Grotto at Livat Hammersmith

Running every weekend in December, the ‘Livat Grotta’ at Livat Hammersmith will allow children to meet Santa and his cheeky elf; with every child who visits receiving a colourful gift to take home from Santa. What’s more, Livat will also be offering a chance to win a £250 IKEA gift card!

In addition to the weekend dates, the Grotta will also be open on Monday 18, Tuesday 19 and Wednesday December 20, providing a free and festive activity for families over the Christmas holidays.

📍 You’ll find Livat Hammersmith at King Street, London, W6 9HW .

🚇 Nearest station is Hammersmith.

So there you have it, a roundup of the best S anta’s grottos in London. So if you’re looking to meet the big man himself and enjoy some real festive cheer, then we hope this roundup has got you sorted!

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Santa’s Grottos in London: Where to find Father Christmas this year

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Santa Claus is coming to ( London ) town!

As we gear up for the Christmas period, you might be looking to take your little one to see the Christmas lights and to visit Santa – either as a way to find out what they’re really hoping for this year, or to scare them into behaving so close to the big day.

Make sure you plan around any planned strikes this December , but here’s where you can find Santa in London this year, from paid experiences to free Grottos…

Spitalfields Market

Hosted in a magical grotto in Old Spitalfields Market, this experience will help your kids explore exciting papercraft as they make beautiful handmade Christmas cards before meeting Santa himself.

Tickets can be booked online , with prices starting from £9.21.

• When : December 7 – 16
• Where : Spitalfields Market, 56 Brushfield Street (nearest tube, Liverpool Street)

Chelsea Christmas Grotto

Santa has already set up shop at the Chelsea Christmas Grotto .

Situated among the sparkling lights on Sloane Square, with a Bavarian Curling Rink and Winter Terrace open until Christmas Eve, tickets to meet Father Christmas with a special gift included are £15.

You can book online .

• When: from now until December 24
• Where: Sloane Square (nearest tube, Sloane Square)

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Beavertown’s Christmas Grotto, Soho

Think Grottos are just for the kids? Think again. Beavertown Brewery is giving people over 18 the chance to have a festive time this Saturday, December 17.

Last minute shoppers on London’s busiest high street can head down to Beavertown’s Grotto at The Flying Horse (6 Oxford St, London, W1D 1AN) between 4pm and 8pm on Saturday, December 17.

Revellers can buy a pint of Neck Oil in exchange for one of hundreds of gifts on offer* ranging from festive candles to Xmas Jumpers, worth up to £40.

There’ll be plenty of happy elves on hand to help you relax the week before Christmas.

Royal Albert Hall

Now for a slightly different Christmas-y experience, visitors can expect a special storytime extravaganza at the Royal Albert Hall. He’s back to read one of his favourite books with everyone, ‘Tiny Reindeer’.

There you’ll step inside a whimsical world where you’ll be greeted by Father Christmas and his merry Head Elf as they take families on a joyful journey in this charming Christmas storytime session featuring Chris Naylor-Ballesteros’ ‘Tiny Reindeer’, ending with each child taking home their own gift.

Tickets cost from £21.50 and can be booked online .

• When : December 2-20
• Where : Royal Albert Hall (nearest tube, South Kensington)

Selfridges, Oxford Street

A pricier treat, Selfridges are turning a trip to Santa’s Grotto into a full experience.

You’re invited to step into the magical world of Dolly’s (sadly not Parton), a winter wonderland with a festive breakfast. Join Mr and Mrs Claus and their elves for a morning filled with fun and a tasty treat – plus, the all-important personalised gift from Santa himself for your little ones.

Tickets can be booked online , starting at £60 per person and bought as a table. There is a minimum of 2 people per table.

• When : December 3 – 21
• Where : Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, London W1A 1AB (nearest tube, Oxford Circus)

Surrey Quays shopping centre

Surrey Quays Shopping Centre is inviting children to come and visit Santa at his magical Headquarters.

Full of Christmas cheer, Santa’s HQ includes Christmas trees decorated in sparkling lights, as well as an assortment of festive games, and musical instruments for little ones to enjoy.

It’s free to visit.

• When:  December 3-23 from 11am – 4pm, December 24 10am – 3pm
• Where: Surrey Quays shopping centre (nearest tube: Surrey Quays or Canada Water)

Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland is the annual festive fairground that sets up shop in Hyde Park.

As well as rides, bars and an ice rink, you can go visit Father Christmas at their special Santa Land .

Entry to the Grotto is free but you will need to purchase an entry ticket to get into Winter Wonderland.

• When: Open every day from 10am to 6pm
• Where: Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park (nearest tube: Green Park, Hyde Park Corner)

ZSL London Zoo

If your little one has been especially good this year, you can turn your Santa’s Grotto trip into a fun day out at the zoo.

Little ones can join in festive crafts before meeting Santa in his magical grotto at the heart of London Zoo this Christmas and receive a special early Christmas gift to take home.

Tickets can be booked online .

• When: December 3, 4 and 10 – 24
• Where: ZSL London Zoo (nearest tube, Camden Town)

The oldest toy store in London is possibly the perfect place to meet the man himself. At the famous store, Santa’s enchanted elves are ready to welcome you to a magical workshop, giving you and your family the opportunity to meet Santa.

To make your time with Jolly St Nick even more special, he has a treat waiting for your little ones to take home.

Tickets must be booked online . One ticket costs £50 and allows access for up to 3 people. If more guests want to join, it’ll be £15 per each additional person up to a total of 6 people (applicable for all ages).

• When: Until December 24
• Where: Santa’s Grotto, 3rd Floor, Hamleys Regent Street (nearest tube, Oxford Circus)

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Victorian Santa’s Grotto at Docklands Museum

If you want a bit of culture with your Christmas, it’s time to head to the Museum of London Docklands, which tie the Grotto experience into the Victorian history and traditions.

With a nineteenth-century spin, transforming its Sailortown gallery with appropriately vintagey decorations and distant carolling, Santa’s on hand to talk Christmas wishes and pose for selfies, and he’ll throw in a gift for the kiddies, too.

Tickets must be booked online . (They’re selling out fast!)

• When: December 3 – 23 (some dates sold out already)
• Where: Museum of London Docklands, E14 4AL (nearest tube, Canary Wharf)

Transport Museum

For another educational Santa trip, head over to the London Transport Museum to see Father Christmas in his interactive sleigh.

As well as meeting Santa, you can step inside a giant festive transport poster for a Christmassy selfie, and climb aboard his Routemaster-inspired interactive sleigh. Your child can then make sure the electric sleigh is plugged in to charge up for its journey around the world, flash the headlights, ring the bell and set its cheer-o-meter to show how much Christmas cheer you’re sharing.

The grotto is free with museum tickets, and kids already go for free to the museum. Adult tickets are £21 , but for this you get an annual pass. If you are on Universal Credit, you can get a ticket for £1.

• When: 11am-3pm on weekdays up to December 16, 11am-5pm on select weekends December (3-4, 10-11 and 17-18) and during school holidays (December 19-23)
• Where: London Transport Museum, Covent Garden Piazza (nearest tube, Covent Garden).

MORE : Which UK supermarket has the cheapest Christmas turkey?

MORE : London’s best pantomimes – from Mother Goose to Cinderella

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Going Out | Events and Things To Do

Ho ho ho! Here’s where to take your kids to see Father Christmas in London this festive season

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Santa Claus is coming to town — and in London he doesn’t just hit the rooftops for one day only: he’s here from mid-November and charges upwards of a tenner for entry, just like a red-suited Love Islander doing a club appearance.

There are also countless iterations of Santa: he can be found at the north (pole) of the city, but all across the south, east and west too. So grit your teeth, get a ticket, stand in line, and keep reminding yourself that this will be the best day of your child’s year. Probably. Possibly.

Alexandra Palace

Father Christmas sits pride of place in north London’s famous landmark this winter, and he can be found in the east Court from December 2 onwards. For £15, kids up to the age of 16 can be treated to a chat with Santa, a small gift, and the option of a quick photo too. If trekking up to N22 is a big ask just for Santa, time the Ally Pally trip to coincide with one of its many other festive events, which include a toy-making workshop, festive puppet shows, and ice discos on the ice rink.

£15, from December 2, Alexandra Palace Way, N22 7AY, alexandrapalace.com

ZSL London Zoo

What could be better than a trip to the zoo and visiting Santa? Well, likely a few things, but this one is set to be a hit with the little ones. Unfortunately, Santa and the zoo charge seperately, which is worth remembering before arriving at the zoo with a grotto ticket and nothing else. That said, the £15 ticket pays for a visit to Santa and a little gift too, with up to three children able to meet him at a time. The zoo has set up various festive activities for kids, including animal crafts, Christmas-themed animal talks, marshmallow toasting and a Polar post room, where children can send their Christmas lists to Father Christmas .

£15, from December 3, Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY, zsl.org

The beauty of Selfridges’ Santa is that he has always been free of charge — but the catch is that he must be tracked down, as he’s constantly roaming the store. It does mean time with him is often limited, but those who really want to lock down some proper time with Father Christmas can book Selfridges’ Breakfast with Santa package for £60 per person (kids and adults cost the same, sadly). The charge includes a meal with the big man, as well as a personalised gift.

Selfridges’ Santa is also likely the best excuses to tie in a grotto visit with some luxury shopping, too, as Harrods’ Santa’s Grotto isn’t running this year.

Free, from November 25, 400 Oxford Street, W1A 1AB, selfridges.com

The best known Santa in town also happens to be the longest running one, with his grotto already on and running until Christmas Eve, when his present delivering duties get in the way. The Hamleys Santa also provides a gift, and the store aims to personalise family’s experience — savvy parents should share names and interests beforehand. Kids attending are supposed to be between two and eight years old, but Hamleys says they welcome the whole family too. Careful if you have more than one child wanting to steal some time away with Santa, though, as one ticket costs £50 and only allows access for up three people. If more guests want to join, it costs £15 per each additional person up to a total of six people, applicable for all ages.

£50 (for three), open now, 188-196 Regent Street, W1B 5BT, hamleys.com

Greenwich Market

The Greenwich Market grotto is a stellar pick, being entirely free and situated in one of the best Christmas markets London has to offer. Father Christmas isn’t around everyday, though, so be sure to check out the dates and book before bustling over. Kids get a gift, while adults have the chance to head straight to the mulled wine and street food vendors as soon as the trip to the grotto is complete.

Free, open now, 5B Greenwich Market, SE10 9HZ, greenwichmarket.com

Kew Gardens

Christmas at Kew is in full flow this year and Santa is within its midst, waiting for any hopeful visitors that want to hand in their Christmas lists or just have a little festive chat. This is the perfect grotto for families that enjoy a Christmassy walk, as the main activity here is really strolling through Kew and taking in all the lights and displays. As guests can’t book in, it’s hard to guarantee a Father Christmas cameo, but if those wandering around the beautiful lights for long enough are sure to track him down soon enough (or tire the kids out so much that they forget).

£21.50 off peak, £28 peak times, open now, Kew Gardens, TW9 3AB, kew.org

Winter Wonderland

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In Winter Wonderland, Santa doesn’t just have a grotto — he has a whole themepark. Santaland promises kids rides, festive eateries and a chance to meet Santa. It also threatens to teach children a valuable life lesson because, as is traditional, apparently only the well-behaved kids get a gift. Entrance to the Grotto itself is free (once entrance to Winter Wonderland itself is paid for), but rides inside start at £2.

£7.50 for Winter Wonderland entry, from November 18, Hyde Park, W2 2UH, hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Museum of London Docklands

For a more educational Father Christmas visit, take your kids to the Museum of London Docklands in West India Quay. The museum has also been decked out with festive cheer for the holiday season, so it’s looking extra Christmassy, and there are Victorian carol singers present too. Afterwards, visit one of the many exhibitions — perhaps on the Great Fire of London, London’s maritime history or, er, famous executions. Tis the season to be jolly...

£12.50, from, December 2, 1 West India Quay, Hertsmere Road, E14 4AL, museumoflondon.org.uk

London Transport Museum

For another educational Santa trip — and for the kids that cannot get enough of cars, buses and the Tube — head over to the London Transport Museum to see Father Christmas in his interactive sleigh. The grotto is free with museum tickets, and kids go for free to the museum as it is. Santa is around every day and well into the school holidays. There are Christmas craft workshops available for kids, and a family trail for any keen explorers.

Free with museum entry (free for children, from £18.50 for adults), 25 November, Covent Garden, WC2E 7BB, ltmuseum.co.uk

Royal Albert Hall

You can find this Santa in one of London’s fanciest grottos at the Royal Albert Hall. It’s not a traditional grotto with knee sitting and a gift list exchanged: instead, it’s a storytelling session where Father Christmas reads to groups of children at a time. Each get a little gift at the end. This year, Father Christmas will be reading Tiny Reindeer by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros to those who attend, with sessions lasting roughly half an hour, so children get a nice, substantial amount of time with Santa Claus.

£21.50 per child, grown ups go free (with max two adults per child), from December 2, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP, royalalberthall.com

Places to Visit Santa in London 2023

Mini Travellers

Updated on: 13th November 2023

It’s that time of year, where the big man himself starts popping up all over London. A visit to Santa in London in 2023 can be truly magical and memorable experience. However it is good to do a bit of research to avoid it transcending into a day of queuing and disappointment.

Thankfully in London, we have a wonderful selection of tried and tested experiences to choose from, but you have to be quick, as many have sold out already. Here are some of the top tips we have received from readers and friends. Thank you, and Merry Christmas all!

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1. See Santa at Hamleys in 2023

From November 12 to Christmas Eve, excited children can visit Father Christmas in one of the favourite toy shops in London. The clever Hamleys Elves have created the perfect grotto and designed fun games and activities, and young visitors will also receive a gift to take home.

While Santa’s welcomes visitors between 2 and 8 years old, the whole family is welcome to join in the fun. With prices starting from £55 for a ticket, which ensures entry for three people, with an additional £15 for each extra person, with a maximum of 6 per session.

This is the perfect opportunity to browse for Christmas gifts and do a little toy testing.

Get Tickets Here.

2. Santa at the Ritz 2023

Father Christmas and his Hamleys’ elves are heading to 150 Piccadilly for the second consecutive year to train the official elf class 2023. The brand-new enchanting experience begins on arrival at The Ritz where guests will be greeted by one of Hamleys’ Elves, before being escorted by a Ritz Page through the hotel to the spectacular Christmas Grotto.

Price: Tickets are Priced at £250 for Three People

From Wednesday 6th December until Sunday 10th December.

3. Santa at Willows Activity Farm, near St Albans 2023

We are very excited to be visiting Santa at Willows Activity Farm again this year. Read our top tips for visiting Willows Activity Farm at Christmas here. 

There is so much on offer to keep your little ones feeling festive all day; an Elf Academy for budding Elves, a cuddle workshop where you can make a soft toy to take home, and the Nativity story acted out by the children in amongst the barn animals. This year there is also an ice rink and gingerbread decorating. By the time they visit Santa’s Grotto the children will be full of the joy of Christmas. Using their golden key to enter Santa Toy Store and choose from hundreds of gifts will top off a wonderful day.

Tickets available starting from £14 per adult and £30 per child. Tickets for Santa Spectacular 2023, Willows Activity Farm will be released mid September 2023/

4. Santa at Royal Albert Hall 2023

What could be better than visiting Santa in his top-secret London headquarters at the iconic Royal Albert Hall?

Oh no! Father Christmas is due at the biggest Christmas concert in the whole world but conductor Tim has lost his Christmas spirit. 

Join his brother Tom,  Albert’s Orchestra  and a cast of special guests as they take Tim through Christmas’s past, present and future to try and bring his Christmas cheer back in time to meet Father Christmas!

When, Sunday the 10th December at 12.30 and 4.30pm with tickets from £20.00

Whilst this may not be a meet and greet experience it promises to be magical.

5. Santa at London Zoo 2023

Little ones will get a sprinkling of Christmas magic as they learn what it takes to become one of Santa’s helpers at the elf school before meeting Santa in his magical grotto and even book a story telling session with Mrs Claus, at the heart of London Zoo. Every child will receive a very special early Christmas gift to take home.

• When, 3 – 4 December and 10 – 24 December.
• ZSL Gold Member, Fellow, and Patron exclusive dates: 26 and 27 November.
• Price: Meet Santa £15.50 which includes a gift.
• Upgrade, £40 for Children and £15.00 for children. A really special treat, little ones will love a cosy storytelling session with Mrs Claus, plus there’s marshmallow toasting with a hot drink and a 30-minute Zoo tour for everyone with a visit to Santa and a gift.

6. Santa at Bocketts Farm, Leatherhead Surrey , 2023

A trip to Santa at Bocketts Farm is one our family favourites. The children board Santa’s trailer and a tractor pulls them to a beautifully decorated hay barn to meet Santa. Each child receives a lovely gift and has a chance to share their Christmas wishes with Santa. A visit to the farm is included in the price of the ticket so children can also enjoy all that is on offer there, including   festive crafts, a large indoor play area and hopefully some newborn lambs.

Enjoy a magical and festive family day out at Bocketts Farm including a visit to meet Father Christmas in his traditional workshop.

23rd November – 24th December 2023

• Hop on board the Santa Express to meet  Father Christmas  in his traditional workshop  (Limited availability. Separate ticket required, book here)
• Complete your very own  Christmas Activity and Stamp Book  
• Make your very own  Reindeer Food  to take home
• Get creative in our  Christmas Craft Corner
• Step inside our  Giant Snowglobe  for a festive family photo
• Meet hundereds of  friendly farm animals  including gorgeous baby lambs due from December!
• Enjoy our  heated indoor soft play
• Explore acres of  outdoor adventure play
• What’s more, we’ll have hundreds of  Christmas trees  for sale from the end of November!

FIND OUT MORE AND BOOK TICKETS HERE

https://www.bockettsfarm.co.uk/Explore/Special-Events/VISIT-FATHER-CHRISTMAS-surrey-family-days-out

7. Santa at Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park 2023

As Hyde Park is transformed into a Winter Wonderland, Santa takes up residence in his Grotto in Santaland, which is packed full of children rides and entertainment. It is FREE to enter the Grotto, but you cannot prebook so be prepared to queue.

17 NOVEMBER 2023 – 01 JANUARY 2023

MON – SUN: 10AM – 10PM

Free entry.

https://hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/

8. Santa at Morden Hall in 2023

We have so many wonderful national trust properties in London, and Santa tries to visit as many as he can. Further details of his visits can be found at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/father-christmas-in-london . Mini Travellers recommends the festivities at Morden Hall Park .

9. The Santa Steam Express From Victoria Station 2023

The Santa Steam Express in London offers a unique Santa steam train adventure. This festive journey departs from Victoria station and includes the opportunity to meet Santa himself on board.

There will be fun and games and a jolly sing-along with the elves in the festive carriages. Plus both Mrs. Claus and Santa Claus make appearances in the carriages during the Steam Dreams experience.

Kids also receive a gift to take home after the 75-minute steam train ride, along with various other surprises on board.

Where: Departing from Victoria station

Dates: Available at different times throughout the day on December 15, 18, and 21, 2023

Ticket prices start at £65 for both adults and children.

10. Santa at Harrods 2023

Tickets are usually released  mid-November .

The issue with seeing Santa at Harrods is that in previous years you need to have spent at least £2000.00 in their stores or be one of the 160 lucky families to get a ticket when they are released.

This in the past has been out of a total of 4,400 tickets!!

£20.00 per child.

Harrods Grotto 2023

11. Santa at London Transport Museum 2023

Santa will be touching down in an enchanting winter wonderland to meet families from November 24th to December 23rd. Children will delight in boarding a Routemaster-inspired sleigh to activate the headlights, ring the bell, and max out the Christmas cheer-o-meter!

The London Transport Museum are also hosting an array of captivating family activities that extend through the New Year. Snuggle up for Christmas tales in the cosy den, explore your creative side with holiday crafts inspired by wintry posters from our collection, capture delightful moments at the festive selfie wall, and meander through the galleries on a story trail.

Best of all, all these festive family activities come included with your tickets, and there’s a special offer for kids: they go for free!

To find other places to see Santa in the UK why not check out:

5 places to Visit Santa in Nottinghamshire this Christmas 2023

Top 5 places to Visit Santa in County Durham 2023

5 Places to Visit Santa in Staffordshire in 2023

Where to Visit Santa in Wirral in 2023

Where to Visit Santa in Liverpool in 2023

Places to Visit Santa in North Yorkshire Christmas 2023!

Karen Beddow founded Mini Travellers in 2014 while doing what she loves most...going on holiday!

Mini Travellers is for parents looking for holiday ideas, destination reviews, days out and things to do with the kids. We also have family travel tips, activity ideas and all other things family holiday related. Take a look at some of our latest reviews for holidays and day trips in the UK.

• Mini Travellers https://minitravellers.co.uk/author/karennbeddow/ Herding Hill Farm | Luxury Lodge in Northumberland
• Mini Travellers https://minitravellers.co.uk/author/karennbeddow/ Chilling Adventures: A Guide to Unforgettable Family Holidays in the Arctic
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The Best Santa’s Grottos in London and the South East

Get the chance to have a special meet and greet with Santa in some of the best Santa’s grottos in London and the South East. Have you been naughty or nice? Either way, get organised and get booking in advance, as slots often go quickly!

Check out our countdown of the six absolute best Santa’s grotto experiences in London and the South East.

6. Santa Land at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland 2022

Okay, so Santa Land doesn’t have a grotto exactly, but what you do have is an entire Christmassy section of London’s Hyde Park to explore with your loved ones. Enjoy plenty of food stalls with festive favourites, rides for kids of all ages (even big ones), and plenty of attractions and activities to keep little minds occupied. 

You’ll get the chance to give Santa a wave as you see him pass during the Santa Parade, which takes place on certain days after 7pm, against a backdrop of festive twinkling lights, as he heads back to Lapland in his sleigh to Mrs Claus.

There is no entry fee for Santa Land, although you will need to pay a fee to enter Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Plus, all children get a free gift to take home as a memento of their special day. There is no booking system – so you’ll likely need to get in a long queue. Park staff have been known to close queues to prevent others joining if it gets too long, so be prepared to wait in line.

You can book entry to Winter Wonderland in advance , with a minimum fee of £5. 

17th November – 1st January (2024)

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, London, W2 2UH .

5. Visit Santa’s sleigh at London Transport Museum

If you’re after a different kind of grotto experience this Christmas, why not visit Santa’s Routemaster-inspired sleigh at London’s Transport Museum? Take Christmas snaps on board the sleigh, before meeting Santa’s elves and the man himself. 

There’s also a gift shop, wintry trail quiz and plenty of crafting activities to get stuck into. If you answer all the quiz questions correctly, you’ll get a chance to win a mini London Underground lightbox as a memento of your visit.

Adult annual passes cost £24 and offer free return entry for a year.

Children go free.

Adults in receipt of Pension Credit or Universal Credit can enter for £1.

24th November – 23rd December

London Transport Museum, The Piazza, London, WC2E 7BB .

4. Visit Santa at ZSL London Zoo

Enjoy an exciting day out visiting Santa and plenty of exotic animals! Kids will get the chance to visit Santa’s grotto for a sit down with the big guy, where they’ll also get a special gift, whether they’ve been naughty or nice! 

The grotto is all part of the zoo’s ‘ Magic of Christmas ‘ event, where families can enjoy Christmas crafts, animal talks, toasted marshmallows and animal crafting. You’ll also get the chance to write your letter to Santa in the Polar Post Room. There are different levels of experience available, depending on whether you want a standard or more VIP visit.

Meet Santa (plus gift) – £15.50

Extra Special Meet Santa Upgrade – £40 per child/£19.50 per adult

Meet Santa VIP Breakfast – $42.50 per child/£21.50 per adult

25th November – 24th December

ZSL London Zoo, Regent’s Park, London, NW1 4RY .

3. Father Christmas at Fulham Palace

Spend some time getting Christmassy at Fulham Palace with a very special Santa meet and greet. Expect festive fires, a magnificent Christmas tree, and elves teaching you arts and crafts while you wait to see the big man himself. 

During their visit to Santa, kids can tell him what they want for Christmas, receive a special gift, and have their photo taken with him. Children can have up to two adults visiting Santa with them.

Standard tickets cost £25 and can be booked here on the Fulham Palace House and Garden website .

From 24th November

Fulham Palace, Bishop’s Ave, London, SW6 6EA .

2. Santa’s Grotto at Hamleys

Arguably one of the best places for a child to visit during Christmas – Hamleys toy store is a magical setting for a Santa’s grotto. When they visit the store, kids will love watching elves make toys for Santa, and it’s a great way for everyone to get in the festive mood. 

You can take your own photos of your visit to Santa, or buy a snap that’s taken by a professional as a cherished memory of your time in the grotto. All children get a special treat from the big guy, too. Booking early is important, because Hamleys is very popular with visitors from all over the country.

Visits to the grotto start from £55 for up to three people, and an extra £15 per additional person. However, pricing varies depending on the dates you choose, and dates on weekends and closer to Christmas have a higher cost. You can have groups of up to six people attending. 

21nd November – 24th December

Hamleys Toy Shop, Regent Street, London, W1B 5BT .

1. The Father Christmas Experience at Marsh Farm

At Marsh Farm in South Woodham Ferrers, Essex, a magical journey awaits your whole family as you take an adventure to the North Pole to meet Santa. Visit the Elves in passport control, who will make sure your papers are ready for your journey. 

You’ll then have the chance to be inducted as an honorary elf at the elf academy. Listen out for your name to be called to see if it’s on the naughty or nice list, and you’ll then get the opportunity to meet Father Christmas and give him your letter. 

After seeing the big guy, it’s time to go to the teddy bear market where you can find a furry companion to take home with you as a reminder of your special day. And of course, all visitors have to visit the toy shop in Elfville, where you can exchange elf money for gifts on the shelves. There’s also lots of activities to enjoy, including treats from a Yuletide menu, rides, ice skating and a chance to meet the farm animals.

Children under 1 go free. Children aged over 1 and over will need a full price ticket, same as adults.

Ticket prices vary by day, from £30 – £75. Prices are all-inclusive, with access to the fun fair, rides and all activities included.

18th, 19th, 25th and 26th November, and 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 9th, 10th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd and 24th December.

Marsh Farm, South Woodham Ferrers, Chelmsford, CM3 5YT .

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• 20:08, 28 OCT 2018
• Updated 20:15, 28 OCT 2018

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It won't be long now before Santa Claus is coming to town and as we speak he will no doubt be making his list and checking it twice.

But who will be on the good list and who will be on the naughty list for Father Christmas ?

If you have children, grandchildren or nieces or nephews to spoil, no festive season will be complete without a visit to Santa's grotto.

And, because he is magic, Santa can be in several grottos at once.

Fortunately for all of us in London there are plenty of places where children can visit Santa across the city, both in the heart of the capital and some wonderful ones worth visiting outside the centre.

In no particular order of preference we list some of best and most loved Santa's grottos in London.

To help you plan your day we have also provided some travel information - if the grotto is in the centre of London it's probably best to use public transport but for those a little further out we have given some advice if you're planning to travel by car.

1. Santa's grotto at Westfield London

Santa's Snowflake Grotto

Santa’s Snowflake Grotto at Westfield London in Shepherds Bush and also at Westfield Stratford City is a spellbinding Snowflake Factory.

At the Wish Cannon, children fill in a Christmas Wish List, put it in a special container and then see their list zoom up the tube and activate a puff of smoke.

Snowflake Scope allows children to look through microscopes at artificial snowflakes magnified thousands of times.

At Snow Control children can play with levers, buttons, cranking wheels and telephones, which light up, beep, start music and even release jets steam. But whatever they do, they must not press the “do not press” button.

And when they enter the Snow Chamber, children will meet Santa and get a present and have a photo taken to buy. Parents can take their own photos, too.

Visits last 20 to 25 minutes.

Where it is: Westfield London, Ariel Way, Shepherds Bush, W12 7GF

When it's open: November 22 - Christmas Eve

Opening times: Various, opening at 10am or 11am and finishing between 5.30pm and 8.30pm, with longer opening hours on Saturdays and in the lead up to Christmas, including 9am openings

Ticket prices: £7.50 for each adult and each child

Book tickets: Online here

Nearest Tube stations: Shepherd's Bush and White City on the Central line, Wood Lane and Shepherd's Bush Market on the Hammersmith & City and Circle lines

Nearest mainline train station: Shepherd's Bush

Buses which stop near here:

White City Bus Station: 31, 49, 148, 207, 237, 260, 607 and C1

Shepherd's Bush: 72, 94, 95, 220, 272, 283, 295 and N207

Parking: Type postcode W12 7SL in your sat nav to be directed to all three car parks - charges range from £3 to £9

Find out more here .

2. Santa's grotto at Westfield Stratford City

If you live in the east of London then you can enjoy all the same fun of Santa's Snowflake Grotto at Westfield Stratford City.

The Wish Cannon, Snowflake Scope and Snow Control will be here too.

And, of course, children will be able to meet Santa himself in the Snow Chamber, have their photo taken and get a present too.

Where it is: Westfield Stratford City, Montfichet Road, Olympic Park, Stratford, E20 1EJ

Nearest Tube station: Stratford on the Central and Jubilee lines

Nearest DLR station: Stratford and Stratford International

Nearest mainline train stations: Stratford and Stratford International

Buses which stop near here: 25, 69, 86, 97, 104, 108, 158, 238, 241, 257, 262, 276, 308, 339, 388, 425, 473 and D8

Car parking: Use either postcodes E20 1EJ, or E15 2EE for older devices, to be directed to all three car parks. Charges range from £2.80 to £9.80

3. Santa's grotto at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

It's FREE to meet Santa in his grotto at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and he will have a gift for you. Parents can take photos of the special moment or buy a professional one.

Santa's grotto is in Santa Land where you'll be be able to visit Santa’s Toy Factory fun house where Santa and his elves are making gifts ready for the big day.

Santa Land this year also includes a 45-metre-long Ice Slide and an Ice Trike Trail.

There are rides for little children and plenty of places to eat and buy a sweet treat.

You can't book your visit to Santa's Grotto, though, so it's first come, first served and you'll want to give yourself plenty of time to wait your turn. If it's a busy day, the queue might close early so everyone in it will have a chance to be seen.

This year there is a family entrance which takes you straight into Santa Land.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and Santa Land within it are free to enter but you will need to buy tokens for the rides.

There are also other attractions and events, including ice skating , circuses and Christmas markets , which you can buy tickets for.

Where it is: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland , Hyde Park , W2 2UH

When it's open: November 23 - January 6

Opening times: Thursdays to Sundays 10am-6pm, Mondays-Wednesdays 10am-4.30pm

Ticket prices: FREE

Nearest Tube stations: Bond Street on the Central and Jubilee lines, Green Park (for avoiding steps) on the Jubilee , Piccadilly and Victoria lines, Knightsbridge on the Piccadilly line , Marble Arch on the Central line and Hyde Park Corner on the Piccadilly line

Nearest mainline train stations: Paddington and Victoria

North: C2, 6, 7, 10, 16, 19, 23, 36, 52, 73, 82, 98, 113, 274, 390, 414

South: 2, 36, 137, 148, 159, 436

West: 9, 10, 14, 19, 22, 52, 74, 94, 148, 414

East: 8,15, 23, 30, 38, 274

4. Santa's grotto in Leicester Square

Santa's Grotto at Christmas in Leicester Square

Christmas in Leicester Square returns courtesy of festival and event organiser Underbelly, with a programme of festive entertainment.

This includes Santa’s Grotto, which was a huge hit last year.

In his grotto, Santa will tell children a festive tale before hearing each child's Christmas wishes, posing for a photo with them and giving them an early Christmas present.

It lasts 25 minutes and sessions are for up to 20 children.

Where it is: Christmas in Leicester Square, Leicester Square

When it's open: November 10 - December 24

Opening times: Mondays to Thursdays from 4pm-8pm and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10am-8pm. Sessions begin every 30 minutes

Ticket prices: £11.50 including £1.50 fee - each child ticket includes one free adult admission, for each child ticket you may also buy one additional adult ticket, price £6.50 including fees

Book tickets: Online here or on the door

Nearest Tube station: Leicester Square on the Northern and Piccadilly lines

Nearest mainline train station: Charing Cross

Buses which stop near here: 24, 29, 176, N5, N20, N29, N41 and N279 at bus stop J

Wondering what the kids will want for Christmas ? This video shows what they might be asking Santa for :

5. Santa's grotto at Hamleys

Meet Father Christmas at Hamleys

Where could be a more appropriate place to meet Santa than in the famous Regent Street toy shop, Hamleys ?

Weekend dates are already fully booked but there was still availability for some weekday slots at the time of writing.

As part of a group session, children will hear magical stories of Christmas , write their own Christmas wish list and meet Father Christmas himself.

The Hamleys Elves will be there and children will be able to chose a cup of Scrumpalicious sweets from the pick and mix.

They will also get a balloon, sticker and a gift bag.

Each session lasts 45 minutes and includes up to 12 children. It's suitable for children aged three to seven.

Where it is: Hamleys, 188 - 196 Regent Street, W1B 5BT

When it's open: November 24 - December 24

Opening times: 9am-7pm - December weekend dates are already fully booked but there was still availability for some November 24 and 25 weekend and December weekday slots at the time of writing

Ticket prices: £39.95 per child

Nearest Tube stations: Oxford Circus on the Bakerloo , Central and Victoria lines, Piccadilly Circus on the Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines, Tottenham Court Road on the Central and Northern lines

Conduit Street: 23, 88, 94, 159, 453, C2, N18, N109, N136

Beak Street: 12, 139, N3, N15, N113

6. Santa's grotto at the Royal Albert Hall

Father Christmas at the Hall

It is said that the Royal Albert Hall is the secret London headquarters of Father Christmas and his elves.

In an hour-long visit, children will take a journey though areas of the Royal Albert Hall and and meet some characters from the North Pole.

There will be the toy soldiers, fairies, workshop elves, toymakers and, of course, Santa along the way, and some fun activities.

Children will have the chance to sit in Father Christmas’ sleigh and get a gift from him. They can also choose some pick ‘n’ mix sweets with help from a magical fairy.

Parents , who go free with their children, can take photos of their little ones with Santa and buy a professional photo too.

It's suitable for all ages but best suited to children aged three to eight.

Where it is: Royal Albert Hall , Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP

When it's open: November 22 - December 22

Opening times: 9am-5pm (last slot 4pm)

Ticket prices: £30.07 including booking fees, per child

Nearest Tube stations: South Kensington on the District, Circle and Piccadilly lines and High Street Kensington on the District and Circle lines

Nearest mainline train stations: Victoria and Paddington (30 minutes walk)

Buses which stop near here: 9, 10, 52, 70, 360, 452, 702, N9 and N52

7. Santa's grotto at the Museum of London

Santa's Victorian Grotto

You can take a stroll with the children through a twinkling Victorian Walk, adorned with festive decorations and with the sound of carols in the distance.

At the end you'll find discover Santa in his secret grotto, waiting to hear your Christmas wishes before giving you a present.

You can also have a photo taken to buy.

Sessions are 15 minutes.

While you are there you can explore the free-to-visit museum and learn about the history of London.

Where it is: Museum of London, 150 London Wall, EC2Y 5HN

When it's open: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from December 1 - 9 and then daily from December 14 - 23

Opening times: 10.30am-5.15pm, last session 5pm

Ticket prices: £10 per child when booked online in advance, £11 on the door

Nearest tube stations: Barbican on the Circle , Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines and St Paul's on the Central line

Nearest mainline train stations: Liverpool Street City and Thameslink Farringdon

Buses which stop near here: 4, 8, 25, 56, 100, 172, 242 and 521

8. Santa's grotto at the Museum of London Docklands

The Sailortown gallery at the Museum of London Docklands is magically transformed with festive decorations while the sound of Victorian carols can be heard in the distance.

You'll find Santa in his grotto where he will have a gift for good children. You can also have a photo taken to buy. Sessions are 15 minutes.

While you're there you can explore the free-to-visit east London museum .

What's on at Christmas in London

Where it is: Museum of London Docklands, No.1 Warehouse, Hertsmere Road, Canary Wharf, E14 4AL

Nearest Tube station: Canary Wharf on the Jubilee line

Nearest DLR station: West India Quay

Nearest major mainline train station: London Bridge

Buses which stop near here: D3, D7, D8, 277, D6, 15, 115 and 135

Get here by boat: Canary Wharf Pier is a short walk and the MBNA Thames Clippers River Bus services departs every 20 minutes with connections places including Embankment, London Eye, Bankside, London Bridge and Greenwich

9. Santa's grotto at Ham House

Meet Father Christmas at Ham House

You might fancy leaving the city centre behind and, without venturing out of the M25, making a visit to the National Trust's beautiful Ham House on the River Thames in Richmond, which is sure to make your feel all Christmasy.

Each child enters the house to be greeted by festive elves, then walks through the beautifully lit rooms to meet Santa in a grotto decked out with candles, presents and a sparkling tree. He will, of course, have a present for each good child.

During their visit to Ham House this Christmas , children will also be able to have some crafty fun, blow off steam with games and hunt out all of the Twelve Days of Christmas.

The family can then visit the rest of Ham House where candles (battery lit but still effective) guide your way. The house is decked out in an abundance of natural greenery, swags and garlands draped over banisters, mantelpieces and windowsills all with light spilling from them.

Christmas trees can be found spread throughout the house and grounds while in the magnificent great hall is the largest tree, decked with lights and presents in a Christmas card scene.

In the gardens trees and hedges twinkle and you might like to stop by the giant Christmas wreath and take the perfect family photo.

Where it is: Ham House, Ham Street, Ham, Richmond, TW10 7RS

When it's open: December 15-23

Opening times: Grotto open 11am-4pm

Ticket prices: A visit to the grotto is £5 per child, and normal admission charges to get into Ham House apply

Nearest Tube station: Richmond on the District line, 1.5 miles by footpath, two miles by road

Nearest mainline train station: Richmond station, 1.5 miles by footpath, two miles by road

Buses which stop near here: 371 to Ham Street bus stop then a half-mile walk and 65 to Sandpits Road bus stop and a three-quarter-mile walk

By car: Ham is on the south bank of the River Thames, west of the A307, between Richmond and Kingston and can be reached from the M3, M4 and M25 and the Richmond Park Ham Gate exit. There is free parking in the riverside car park at the end of Ham Street and on nearby streets.

10. Santa's grotto at Fulham Palace

Father Christmas at Fulham Palace

This is a another beautiful and popular place to meet Santa. Tickets to see Santa at the historic Fulham house and garden of the Bishops of London go on sale in late September each year and tickets for three of the four dates have already sold out.

But at the time of writing there was still good availability on Friday, December 7, so if you have pre-school children this would be ideal.

Children need to knock on the door of the Great Tudor Door and listen for the bell before walking in with their family to meet Santa.

There is a wonderful festive atmosphere in the room - expect a roaring log fire and Christmas tree and see the elves gift wrapping section, Father Christmas’s desk and the naughty and nice list all on display.

Each child will get a small gift and while they wait their turn they can have a go at craft activities.

If you can't go this year then you can make sure you don't miss out next year by signing up to the Fulham Palace mailing list on its homepage here or you can pick up a What’s On brochure from the Palace.

Where it is: Fulham Palace, Bishop's Avenue, Fulham, SW6 6EA

When it's open: Tickets available at the time of writing for Friday, December 7 only (December 1, 2 and 9 sold out)

Opening times: 9am-5pm

Ticket prices: £11 per child

Nearest Tube station: Putney Bridge on the District line

Nearest mainline train station: Putney Station

Buses which stop near here: 74, 220 and 430 to Bishops Park Road bus stop on Fulham Palace Road and 74, 220 and 430 to Putney Bridge

By car: The entrance is at the end of Bishop’s Avenue, on the left. There is no parking on-site but there is ample parking on Bishop’s Avenue. Parking meters operate from 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday but there are special restrictions on match days. For parking information click here .

And here is one for next year:

11. Santa's grotto at Harrods

The Harrods Christmas Grotto

We can't have a list of some of the best Santa's grottos in London and miss out one of the most famous of them all, even if - unless you're one of lucky ones - you won't get tickets for this year now.

The Harrods Christmas Grotto leaves children of all ages and their parents with memories which last a lifetime.

The magical festive experience at the iconic Knightsbridge department store takes young guests through Santa's gingerbread house before they are immersed into a storyland filled with imagination.

This Christmas the grotto experience has been offered by invitation only to the store's most loyal Rewards customers .

Those invited to visit were sent an email on August 22 which included details of how to book their ticket.

The decision to make the event invite-only was due to a "high demand" each year, Harrods explained as it revealed the information on its website .

Four different Harrods Rewards cards are available, depending on how much you spend in store, ranging from green (the lowest) to black (the highest).

We don't know yet if the same system will be used next year but if you think you are likely to be one of Harrods' most loyal customers and want a Reward card to be in with a chance of getting an invite, then you can apply for one at www.harrods.com .

But even if you are not seeing Santa, Harrods is magical place at Christmas and a must-visit for anyone looking to soak up some festive atmosphere in London.

Where it is: Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL

Nearest Tube station: Knightsbridge on the Piccadilly line and also South Kensington on the Piccadilly , District and Circle lines and Sloane Square on the District and Circle lines.

Nearest mainline train station: Victoria

Buses which stop near here: 9, 10, 14, 19, 22, 52, 74, 137, 414, 452 and C1

• Most Recent

100+ Of The Best Santa’s Grottos And Santa Experiences In 2023

Visiting a Santa’s Grotto has always been one of the most fun Christmas activities to do with our kids since they were small.

We’re big fans of Christmas events in general and even before the kids came along we loved to visit Christmas markets in Europe and Christmas isn’t Christmas without a visit to a Santas Grotto.

When the kids were 7 and 8 we thought it was the perfect time to take them to Lapland to visit Father Christmas – the ultimate Santa’s Grotto – to ensure their belief in the magic of Christmas remained for a little while longer.

Finding the perfect Santa’s Grotto in the UK in 2023 is a little harder having just had that amazing experience, but there are some great 2023 Santa visits to choose from.

Having done all this research on the best Santa experiences in the UK in 2023, we thought we would pull together our list of top Christmas days out for kids.

We hope it will save you a LOT of time and effort and avoid hours spent searching for ‘where to see Santa near me 2023’ or ‘best Santa’s grotto near me’ or even ‘what is the best Santa’s Grotto in the UK this year?’

If you’re wondering where to see Santa this year, you’re sure to find him at one of these Christmas experiences.

Whether you meet him in a garden centre, department store or on a train, these UK Santa’s Grottos and Santa experiences promise to be truly magical.

**Most Christmas events will require an online booking in advance. **

If you’d like to see more of our UK and Worldwide family adventures and travel tips, remember to follow us on Instagram .

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and book something, we may earn a small commission but this is at no extra cost to you.

  Table of Contents

Lapland UK Santa Sleepovers (Theme Parks and Holiday Villages) Gardens and Garden Centre Santa’s Grottos Farm Parks and Zoos Winter Wonderlands and Light Shows Christmas at Theme Parks Santa Train Rides Department Store and Shopping Centre Santa’s Grottos Santa’s Grottos at Castles National Trust Santa’s Grottos Other places to see Santa Seeing Santa virtually

Lapland UK is in a category all by itself because it’s arguably the best Santa’s Grotto around and the ultimate place to see Santa in the UK. The ultimate Christmas experience comes at a cost but by all accounts, it’s worth it.

For when travel becomes easier again, we have a guide to booking your own Finnish Lapland holiday at a fraction of the cost of a package holiday.

Our guide to booking a DIY Lapland trip explains how to have the ultimate Santa experience on a budget. See also what to pack for Lapland with kids .

Father Christmas 2023 tickets are sold out but you can sign up to be on the cancellation list.

Dates : 12th November 2023 to 24th December 2023. Ticket Price : From £65 to £135 per person. Location : Lapland UK, Whitmoor Forest, Swinley Road, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 8BD.

Santa Sleepovers (Theme Parks and Holiday Villages)

These are the main UK parks offering Santa sleepovers and short breaks. For a full list, you can read our post on Father Christmas sleepovers .

In case you don’t find anything you like here, we have more ideas on Family Christmas Breaks in the UK. We also have a guide to the Merlin attractions at Christmas .

Chessington World of Adventures

Chessington World of Adventures Father Christmas Sleepover

Dates : Weekends from 25th November to 23rd December 2023 for Father Christmas Sleepover at Chessington. Ticket Price : From £281 for a family of 4 to stay overnight with 2 days entry to Park (on selected dates) staying in a themed hotel. Location : Chessington World of Adventures, Leatherhead Road, Chessington, Surrey, KT9 2NE.

Check current prices and availability here.

Just visiting for the day? Check the Chessington website for more info and tickets .

Photo Credit: Chessington World of Adventures

Alton Towers Resort

Alton Towers Resort Santa Sleepover Dates : Weekends from 25th November to 23rd December 2023. Ticket Price : From £290 per family of 4 to stay overnight with one day in the park staying in a themed hotel. Location : Alton Towers Resort, Alton, Staffordshire, ST10 4DB.

The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort

The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort Santa Sleepover

Dates : Weekends from 25th November to 23rd December 2023. Ticket Price : From £469 for family of 4 to stay overnight with 1 day in the park staying in a LEGO® themed room. Make your Santa Sleepover even more special, with a special trip to see Santa in his grotto from £20 per child. Location : The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort , Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY.

©2021 The LEGO Group.

Photo Credit: The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle Santa Sleepover

Dates : Weekends from 25th November to 23rd December 2023. Ticket Price : From £499 for family of 4  to stay overnight with 2 days in the castle staying in the Knight’s Village. Location : Warwick Castle, Warwick, Warwickshire, CV34 6AH.

Bluestone Christmasland breaks (see also our top cheaper alternatives to Center Parcs ).

Dates : 6th November 2022 to 1st January 2024. Ticket Price : From £579 for 4 people in a lodge for 3 nights. Location : Bluestone Resort, Canaston Wood, The Grange, Narberth, SA67 8DE.

Ribby Hall Village

Winter Wonderland

Dates : From 10th November 2023 to 15th December 2023. Ticket Price : From £489 for 4 people in a lodge for 3 nights. Location : Ribby Hall Village, Ribby Road, Wrea Green, Lancashire, PR4 2PR.

Center Parcs

Center Parcs Winter Wonderland holidays

Dates : 6th November 2023 to 2nd January 2024. Ticket Price : From £579 for 4 people in a lodge for 3 nights. Location : Center Parcs at Christmas is at all of their locations.

Winter Wonderland at Center Parcs

Gardens and Garden Centre Santa’s Grottos 2023

Here is just a short list of Santa’s Grottos at garden centres across the UK. Some of these garden centres have multiple locations in the UK.

If you don’t see one near you, just searching for ‘garden centre with Santa’s Grotto near me’ will give you more options.

The Father Christmas Experience at Marsh Farm Dates : 18th November to 24th December 2023. Ticket Price : From £39.00 – £70.00 per person. Under 1 Free. Location : Marsh Farm, Marsh Farm Road, South Woodham Ferrers, Essex, CM3 5WP.

See also our guide to the Christmas events happening in Essex and Christmas markets in Essex for more festive days out.

Frosts Garden Centres

Santa’s Grotto at Frosts Dates : 2023 dates TBC. Ticket Price : Only family tickets available to book – (1 Adult & 1 Child – £22.00, 2 Adult & 2 Child – £44.00). Additional Adult – £3.50 and additional child – £15.00. Location : Woburn Sands     Millets Farm     Willington

Skylark Garden Centre

Christmas at Skylark  (see also Christmas events in Cambridgeshire ) Dates : Weekends from 25th November to 24th December 2023. Ticket Price : Tickets on sale in September. Location : Skylark Garden Centre, Manea Road, Wimblington, March, Cambridgeshire, PE15 0PE.

Burston Garden Centre

Santa’s Grotto at Burston Garden Centre (see also Christmas events in Hertfordshire ) Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : £10.00 per child (£1 per accompanying adult). Location : Burston Garden Centre, North Orbital Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL2 2DS.

Van Hage Garden Centre

Santa’s Grotto at Van Hage Dates : Select dates from 4th November to 24th December 2023. Ticket Price : £12.00 per child. Location : Van Hage Garden Centre, Great Amwell, Nr Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 9RP.

See more things to do at Christmas in Hertfordshire .

Poplar Nurseries

Breakfast with Santa Dates : TBC Ticket Price : £TBC Location : Poplar Nurseries, Coggeshall Road, Marks Tey, Colchester, Essex, CO6 1HR.

Woodland Walk Garden Centre

Woodland Walk Santa’s Grotto Dates : Every weekend from the last weekend in November Ticket Price : TBC Location : Woodland Walk Garden Centre, Heol Creigiau, Efail Isaf, Nr. Pontypridd, CF38 1BG.

Pugh’s Garden Village

Christmas Experience Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : TBC. Location : Pugh’s Garden Village, Ty-Nant Road, Morganstown, Cardiff, CF15 8LB.

North Wales Garden World

Christmas Winter Wonderland Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : £6.95 per person. Location : North Wales Garden World, St Asaph Avenue, Kinmel Bay, Conwy, LL18 5TU.

See our post on family-friendly things to do in North Wales .

Glendoick Garden Centre

Visit Santa

Dates : 2023 dates TBC. Bookings open on 1st October 2023. Ticket Price : £7.50 (all proceeds going to charity). Location : Glendoick, Glencarse, Perthshire, PH2 7NS.

Springtime Nurseries Crews Hill

The Crews Hill Santa Grotto is part of their Christmas Wonderland . Dates : TBC (tickets on sale from September). Ticket Price : £12.00 per child and £4.00 per adult. Location : Springtime Nurseries, Cattlegate Road, Crews Hill, Middlesex, EN2 9EE.

Dobbies Garden Centres

Dobbies Santas Grotto Dates : 24th November to 24th December 2023. Ticket Price : From £7.00 per child (online) or £8.00 on the day. Location : There are 44 centres across the country to choose from.

Eden Project

Meet Father Christmas at Eden Dates : TBC Ticket Price : Adult – £10.00, Child – £10.00. Location : Eden Project, Bodelva, Cornwall, PL24 2SG.

Dobbies Garden Centre

Farm Parks and Zoos

Zsl london zoo.

The Magic of Christmas at London Zoo (Meet Santa is on 3rd & 4th and 10th to 24th December 2022). Dates : 26th November to 1st January 2024. Ticket Price : From Adult – £28.50. Child – £18.55. Location : London Zoo, Regent’s Park, London, NW1 4RY.

If you live locally, their annual membership is definitely worth getting. See also what is going on at Whipsnade Zoo at Christmas .

Edinburgh Zoo

Santa’s Grotto (part of the Edinburgh Zoo Christmas Nights ) Dates : Select dates TBC. Ticket Price : Daytime child from £17.00. Evening child from £18.00. Location : Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS

Easton Farm Park

Christmas on the Farm – see also more Christmas events in Suffolk .

Dates : 3rd & 4th, 10th & 11th and 17th to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adult – £10.95, Child – £18.95. Location : Easton Farm Park, Pound Corner, Easton, Suffolk, IP13 0EQ.

Africa Alive!

Christmas at Africa Alive! Dates : TBC Ticket Price : TBC Location : Africa Alive, Whites Lane, Kessingland, Suffolk, NR33 7TF.

Bocketts Farm Park

Father Christmas Experience Dates : 24th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : From £25.50 per child. Adult – from £6.50. Location : Bocketts Farm Park,Young Street, Fetcham, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BS.

See here for more Christmas events in Surrey .

West Midland Safari & Leisure Park

Santa Safari Dates : 25th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adult (16+) – £22.80, Child (3-16) – £19.60 and Under 3 – £13.00. Location : West Midland Safari & Leisure Park, Spring Grove Road, Bewdley, Kidderminster, DY12 1LF.

Marwell Zoo

Christmas at Marwell – this has become Glow Marwell. Dates : 18th November to 30th December 2022. Ticket Price : From £15.00 per adult and £12.00 per child (3-16). Location : Marwell Wildlife, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1JH.

Colchester Zoo

The Magic of Christmas at Colchester Zoo Dates : Select dates from 26th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : £12.50 per ticket (on top of zoo entry). Location : Colchester Zoo, Maldon Road, Heckfordbridge, Colchester, Essex, CO3 0SL.

Christmas at Banham Zoo Dates : 23rd November to 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : From £16.95 per person. Under 1 – FREE. Location : Banham Zoo, Kenninghall Road, Banham, Norfolk, NR16 2HE.

Bristol Zoo Gardens (see Wild Place Project)

Santa’s Grotto at Bristol Zoo Gardens Dates : TBC Ticket Price : TBC Location :Wild Place Project, Blackhorse Hill, Bristol, BS10 7TP.

4 Kingdoms Adventure Park

Christmas Experience Dates : 26th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adult – from £30.00. Child – from £40.00. Under 1 – £10.00. Location : Newbury Road, Headley, Thatcham, Berkshire, RG19 8JY.

Paradise Wildlife Park

Paradise Wildlife Park Dates : Every weekend from 3rd December and then 17th to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adult: £22.00, Child £20.00 – entry to the grotto is included in your park ticket. Location : Paradise Wildlife Park, White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, EN10 7QA.

See also Broxbourne Woods Scultpure Trail which is right next door if you’re feeling like a family-friendly walk.

Drusillas Park

Christmas at Drusillas Park Dates : 19th November to 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : £17.50 per person to visit Santa (doesn’t include entry to park). Location : Drusillas Park, Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5QS.

See here for more things to do at Christmas in Sussex .

Mead Open Farm

The Magic of Christmas Dates : 2nd to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : From £22.00 per adult and £29.00 per child (1-15 yrs) and non-participating child under 1 year – £10.00 plus £0.50 booking fee. Location : Mead Open Farm, Stanbridge Road, Billington, Bedfordshire, LU7 9JH.

Willows Farm

Santa Spectacular

Dates : 19th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adults (and children under 2) £23.00 – £29.00, Children 2+ £45.00 – £51.00 (non member prices). Location : Willows Activity Farm, Coursers Road, London Colney, Hertfordshire, AL4 0PF.

Wroxham Barns

The Santa Experience – see also other Christmas events in Norfolk and family-friendly activities in Norfolk .

Dates : 25th November to 24th December 2023. Ticket Price : Adults from £20.95, Children from £27.95 & Under 2 from £16.95. Location : Wroxham Barns, Tunstead Road, Hoveton, Norfolk, NR12 8QU.

Willows Farm Santa Spectacular

Meet Santa and his Reindeers Dates : Select dates from 12th November to 18th December 2022. Ticket Price : Normal entry price applies PLUS £8.50 to meet Santa. Location : Folly Farm, Begelly, Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire, Wales, SA68 0XA.

Reindeer Centre Bethersden

Christmas Grotto Dates : Weekends from 12th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adults – from £12.000 and children £18.00. Location : Capralama Farm, Pluckley Road, Bethersden, TN26 3EQ.

Bethersden Reindeer Centre Christmas Grotto

Winter Wonderlands and Light Shows

Thursford magical journey.

Dates : Santa’s Magical Journey – weekends from 26th November to 11th December and then 17th to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : From £20.00 per child. Adult – from £14.00. Location : Thursford Collection, Thursford, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 0AS.

See also Enchanted Journey of Light dates 19th November to 28th December 2022 – one of the many Christmas light trails in the UK and Christmas Spectacular from 8th November to 23rd December 2022.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland (also home to the largest outdoor ice rink in London ). If you’re in London, make sure to check out the London Christmas lights . London is one of the best cities in the UK to visit at Christmas with kids .

Dates : 18th November 2022 to 2nd January 2023. Ticket Price : From £5.00 per person (which is refunded if you book over £25.00 worth of activities). Location : Hyde Park, London.

Kew Gardens

Christmas at Kew

Dates : 16th November to 8th January 2023. Ticket Price : Adults from £21.50, Children (4-16) from £14.00, Family of 4 – £65.00 and Under 4 Free. Location : Kew Gardens, Kew, Richmond, London, TW9 3AE.

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace Illuminated Light Trail

Dates : 18th November to 2nd January 2023. Ticket Price : Adults from £35.00 (with parking), Children (3-16) from £18.00. Under 2 Free. Location : Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1PP.

Light Trail at Blenheim Palace

Kielder Water & Forest Park

Kielder Winter Wonderland

Dates : Select dates from 19th November to 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : From £29.50 per person. Under 2 – £5.00. Location : Kielder Water & Forest Park, Hexham, NE48 1BT.

Chester Zoo

The Lanterns

Dates : 11th November to 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : Adults from £15.00, Children from £12.00 (under 2 free). Location : Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester, Chester, CH2 1EU.

The Lanterns Chester Zoo

The Snow Centre

Santa’s Grotto at the Snow Centre Dates : 24th, 26th December and 31st December and 1st January 2023. Ticket Price : TBC. Location : The Snow Centre, St Albans Hill, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP3 9NH.

Tamworth Snowdome

Winter Wonderland Dates : 12th November 2022 to 1st January 2023. Ticket Price : From £15.95 per person Location : SnowDome, Leisure Island, River Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7ND.

The Snow Factor

Dine with Santa Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : £29.00 per child including a meal with Santa, a story, a gift and 30 minutes of sledging. Location : The Snow Factor, King’s Inch Road, Glasgow, Renfrew, G51 4BP.

Lotherton Hall

The Christmas Experience Dates : 26th November to 31st December 2022. Ticket Price : Tickets on sale from 9th September 2021. Location : Lotherton Hall, Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB.

The Ice Village

Santa’s Grotto Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : NA Location : Cathedral Gardens, Corporation Street, Manchester, M4 3BG.

The Ice Village Manchester

Christmas at Theme Parks

Gulliver’s land.

Gulliver’s at Christmas Dates : Weekends from 3rd December to 18th December and then 21st, 22nd and 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : From £27.00 per person (Under 90cm £9.00). Location : Warrington, Milton Keynes, Rotherham, Matlock Bath.

1 Day Winter’s Tail Dates : 25th November to 30th December 2023 (meet Father Christmas available until 24th December 2023). Ticket Price : From £20.00 per person. See the Chessington website for more event info and tickets. Location : Chessington World of Adventures, Leatherhead Road, Chessington, Surrey, KT9 2NE.

Drayton Manor

Drayton’s Magical Christmas Dates : 26th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adult (4+) £36.00, Child (2-3) £22.00 and Under 2 – £5.00. Location : Drayton Manor Park, Near Tamworth, Staffordshire, B78 3TW.

Paultons Park

Christmas at Paultons (Santa’s Grotto is closed but Santa will appear on stage). Dates : Select dates from 3rd to to 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : Children 1m and over – £35.00, Family of 4 – £140.00. Location : Paultons Park, Ower, Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 6AL.

Alton Towers

Alton Towers Resort at Christmas Dates : From 25th November to 2nd January 2023. Ticket Price : From £16.00 per person. Buy Alton Towers tickets here. Location : Alton Towers Resort, Farley Lane, Alton, Stoke-on-Trent, ST10 4DB.

The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort at Christmas Dates : From 26th November to 3rd January 2023. Ticket Price : From £32.00 per person. Check here for tickets. Location : The LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY.

Santa Train Rides

There are so many Santa Train Rides in the UK. Here is a small selection of them. We have more information in these posts –  40+ Seriously Festive Santa Train Rides and A Handy Guide to the 11 Polar Express Train Rides in the UK.

Heading to the US? We have a guide on where to find a US Polar Express train ride .

If you’re going to take a Polar Express train ride, how about brushing up on the movie or reading the book before you go?

*These are affiliate links. If you buy something from them, we may earn a small commission, but this is at no extra cost to you. Thank You!*

Polar Express Movie – on Amazon.

Polar Express Book – on Amazon.

Wensleydale Railway

Polar Express Dates : 18th November to 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : From £29.95 to £36.95 per person. Location : Wensleydale Railway, Leeming Bar Station, Leases Road, Leeming Bar, Northallerton, DL7 9AR.

Mid Norfolk Railway

Polar Express Dates : 13th November to 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : From £27.50 for standard and £41.95 for premium. Location : The Railway Station, Station Road, Dereham, Norfolk, NR19 1DF.

South Devon Railway

Polar Express Dates : 18th November to 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : From £29.95 to £39.95 per person. Location : South Devon Railway, The Station, Dartbridge Road, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0DZ.

Bure Valley Railway

Festive Express Dates : Select dates from 3rd to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : £13.00 per person. Location : Bure Valley Railway, Aylsham Station, Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6BW.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway

Santa Specials Dates : Select dates from 3rd to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : £16.75 for adults, £13.75 for children 5-17 and £10.75 for children under 5. Location : The Railway Station, Main Road, Havenstreet, Ryde, PO33 4DS.

Great Central Railway

Santa Steam Trains Dates : 26th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : £69.00 – £89.00 for a compartment for 4 people or £75.00-£95.00 for a compartment for 6 people. Location : Quorn and Woodhouse Station, Woodhouse Road, Quorn, LE12 8AG.

Churnet Valley Railway

Santa Steam Trains Dates : Churnet Valley is now running the Polar Express – see above section for details. Ticket Price : N/A Location : Churnet Valley Railway, Kingsley & Froghall Station, Froghall, Staffordshire, ST10 2HA.

Avon Valley Railway

Avon Valley Railway Santa Special

Address : Avon Valley Railway, Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD Dates : 26th November to 24th December 2022. Tickets : From £13.00 – £20.00 per person. Under 1 – FREE.

See also the best Christmas events in Bath .

North York Moors Railway

Santa Reimagined Dates : Select dates from 3rd December to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : £100.00 for a compartment for 4 people (+£25.00 per additional adult up to 6 people max). Location : Pickering Station, Pickering, YO18 7AJ.

Kent & East Sussex Railway

Santa Specials Dates : Select dates from 3rd December to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : Standard table of 4 from £90.00, First class from £120.00 for up to 4. Private compartment for up to 6 – from £180. Location : Tenterden Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE.

See here for more Christmas events in Kent .

Santa and Steam Specials Dates : Select dates from 3rd December to 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : Table for 4 – £65.00, Compartment for up to 6 – £95.00. Location : Matlock Station, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 3NA.

Llangollen Railway

Santa Specials Dates : Select dates from 3rd December to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : £20.00 per person or £80.00 for a compartment of 4. Location : The Station, Abbey Road, Llangollen, Denbighshire, LL20 8SN.

Audley End Miniature Railway

Audley End Christmas Special Dates : 19th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : From £22.00 over 92cm and £11.00 under 92cm. Under 1 – FREE. Location : Audley End Miniature Railway, Audley End Road, Audley End, Saffron Waldon, Essex CB11 4JB.

Audley End Christmas Special

Seaton Tramway

Polar Express Dates : Selec dates from 25th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : From £19.95 per person (under 2 free). Location : Seaton Tramway, Harbour Road, Seaton, Devon, EX12 2NQ.

Stuart Line Cruises (this is a boat trip, not a train ride)

Sail with Santa

Dates : Weekends in December and 21st & 22nd December 2022. Ticket Price : £12.00 per person (under 12 months – £4.00). Location : Sailings from Exmouth, Exeter, Topsham and Sidmouth.

Steam Trains Ireland

Santa Train

Dates : 3rd, 10th, 17th & 18th December 2022. Ticket Price : TBC. Location : Whitehead Excursion Station, Castleview Road, Whitehead, Carrickfergus, BT38 9NA

Bodmin and Wenford Railway

Santa by Steam Dates : Weekends in December and then 19th to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : From £19.95 per person. Location : General Station, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1AQ.

Bodmin and Wenford Railway Santa by Steam

Department Store and Shopping Centre Santa’s Grottos

Harrods Christmas Grotto (only open to customers who spend over £2000 in Harrods). Dates : TBC Ticket Price : N/A Location : 87 – 135 Brompton Road, London, SW1X 7XL.

Selfridges Breakfast with Santa Dates : TBC Ticket Price : Various – see website. Location : London     Birmingham     Manchester

Hamleys Santa’s Grotto Workshop Dates : 12th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : London (£39.99) – Glasgow (£20.00) – Lakeside (£20.00). Location :  Addresses for individual stores can be found here.

Santa’s Grotto – Meet Santa in John Lewis

Dates : 22nd November to 24th December 2023 (dates will vary slightly by location). Ticket Price : Child – £20 (plus £2 booking fee). Adult – £2 (plus 20p booking fee). Location :  9 UK John Lewis locations will be offering a Santa’s Grotto. See here.

Magic Alley Stratford

Christmas at Magic Alley Dates : 27th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : £14.00 per adult. Babies – £5.00. Location : 1st Floor, Bell Court Shopping Centre, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 6EX.

The Olde Watermill

Santa’s Grotto – tickets on sale now. Dates : Select dates from 25th Novembwer to 24th December 2023. Ticket Price : Adult – £5.49, Child – £15.99. Location : The Olde Watermill Shopping Village, BartonMill Lane, Barton-le-Clay, Bedfordshire, MK45 4RF.

Christmas at Bluewater Dates : 25th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adult – from £5.00, Child – from £12.50 (plus booking fee). Location :  Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, Kent, DA9 9ST.

Christmas Wonderland Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : See site for details. Location :  The Quay, Lakeside Shopping Centre, Grays, Essex, RM20 2AD.

Hamleys Santas Grotto Workshop

Santa’s Grottos at Castles and other tourist attractions

Castles are some of the most visited tourist attractions in the UK and are a fantastic setting for Christmas events. Here are some of the best castles in the UK with Christmas events.

Some of these castles are run by English Heritage. We highly recommend an English Heritage membership . Just a couple of visits to English Heritage properties during the year will cover the cost of your pass.

Hever Castle

Santa at Hever Castle – one of the most impressive castles in Kent Dates : Selected dates from 19th November to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adults – £20.00, Children (5-17) £26.00, Children Under 5 – £14.00. Location : Hever Castle, Hever Road, Hever, Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7NG.

Belvoir Castle

Santa’s Grotto at Belvoir Castle

Dates : 18th November to 23rd December 2022. Ticket Price : £15.00 per child. This does not include entrance price to the castle. Location : Belvoir Castle, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG32 1PE.

Gwrych Castle

Christmas Grotto at Gwrych Castle

Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : N/A. Location : Gwrych Castle, Abergele, Conwy, LL22 8ET.

Christmas at the Castle (loads going on including ice skating, a light trail and a Christmas market)

Dates : 26th November to 2nd January 2023. Ticket Price : Tickets from £14.00. Buy tickets here . Location : Warwick Castle, Warwick, Warwickshire, CV34 6AH.

Leeds Castle

Father Christmas at Leeds Castle (one of the best castles in Kent ). See more here for the best things to do in Kent .

Dates : 25th November to 1st January 2022. Ticket Price : Adults – £28.00, Child (4-15) – £19.50, Under 4 – FREE. Location : Leeds Castle , Leeds, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 1PD.

Bolsover Castle

Christmas at the Castle

Dates : Weekends from 26th November to 18th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adult – £8.00, Child (5-17) – £8.00 (on top of usual entrance fee), Location : Bolsover Castle, Castle Street, Bolsover, Chesterfield, S44 6PR.

Castle Howard

An Audience with Father Christmas

Dates : Select dates from 1st to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : from £47.00 per child (accompanying adults from £20.00 before 3pm must book Gardens ticket, after 3pm must book Light Trail ticket). Location : Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA.

Oxford Castle and Prison

Santa’s Grotto

Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : £17.95 per child, £15.95 per adult, Under 2 – £6.95. Location : Oxford Castle and Prison, 44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford, OX1 1AY.

Kenilworth Castle

Dates : Weekends from 26th November to 18th December 2022. Ticket Price : Adult – £8.00, Child (5-17) – £8.00 (on top of usual entrance fee). Location : Kenilworth Castle, castle Green, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 1NG.

Bodium Castle

Father Christmas at Bodium Castle

Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : TBC. Location : Bodium Castle, Bodium, Robertsbridge, East Sussex, TN32 5UA.

Santa at Hever Castle

Dover Castle

Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : Adult – £17.00, Child (5-17) – £10.20. Location : Dover Castle, Dover, Kent, CT16 1HU.

Whitstable Castle

Santa’s Magical Grotto Dates : 3rd to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : £6.50 per child. Location : Whistable Castle, 15 Tower Hill, Whistable, Kent, CT5 2BW.

National Trust Santa’s Grottos

If you like visiting National Trust properties, we highly recommend getting a National Trust membership . Just a couple of visits will cover the price of your pass and you will be able to get into a lot of these seasonal events for free.

Meet Father Christmas in the East

Meet Father Christmas in the Midlands

Meet Father Christmas in Northern Ireland

Meet Father Christmas in the South East

Meet Father Christmas in the South West

Meet Father Christmas in Wales

Places to see Santa in London

There are lots of Santa’s Grottos in London this year – including the infamous Harrods Santa Grotto (but this is almost impossible to get into!). We have already mentioned a few above such as Hamleys and London Zoo – but here are a few more London Santa’s Grottos:

Alexandra Palace

Santa’s Grotto at Alexandra Palace

Dates : TBC. Ticket Price : £14.50 per child. Location : Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London, N22 7AY.

Shrek’s Adventures

Santa’s Grotto at Shrek’s Adventures

Dates : Weekends in December and then 17th to 24th December 2022. Ticket Price : From £24.00 per person. Location : Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7PB.

Broadgate Circle

The Winter Forest

Dates : TBC.. Ticket Price : TBC. Location : Exchange House, 12 Exchange Square, London, EC2A 2BQ.

Fortnum & Mason

Storytelling with Father Christmas

Dates : Tickets have now sold out. Ticket Price : N/A. Location : Fortnum & Mason, 181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, W1A 1ER13.

See here for more places to see Santa in London this year.

If you’re visiting London and looking for family-friendly hotels, make sure to check out our top London hotel recommendations . See also – the most magical things to do in London at Christmas with kids .

The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences – Located in Mayfair , this is a 5 star luxury aparthotel with a difference. We find it so useful when staying in hotels in with kids to have a kitchen. They also have a kids’ concierge service where they arrange your kid’s favourite DVDs and treats for the room. Guest can use all of the hotel facilities and they have a pool.

The Ritz – Located on Piccadilly near Hyde Park Corner . One of the most well-known hotels in London. The Ritz being the Ritz, they have a Very Important Kids programme providing anything a child could want in their hotel room. Children under 15 stay for free with their parents in a Junior Suite or above.

The Rubens at the Palace – Located near Buckingham Palace . This boutique hotel has their own Director of Fun and Adventure to organise activities for kids. Children under 12 stay and eat for free and there’s a 6pm check out on Sundays.

St Ermin’s – Located near St James’s Park . They offer a kids concierge to take care of the kids needs with fun and games inside of the hotel as well as outside. They even have their own bee hotel within the hotel. There are 2 new rooms that cater for families of 6. They also do a fabulous afternoon tea for kids .

Park Plaza County Hall – Located   near the London Eye , this is an excellent, centrally located mid-range family hotel in London. If booking the Family Getaway Package, they offer goody bags for kids at check-in and ‘Park Plaza money’ to spend in the Spectrum Bar and complimentary breakfast for children up to 12 years old. There are also interconnecting rooms for larger families.

Premier Inn Waterloo – Located by Westminster Bridge near the London Eye. Family hotels in London can be eye-wateringly expensive but the Premier Inn is a great, no-frills budget family hotel in London option if you are looking for a central location.

Other places to see Santa

Missed out on booking a visit to Santa’s Grotto? Here are a few more ideas for seeing the big man.

Royal Albert Hall – Storytime with Father Christmas – 2nd to 20th December 2022.

Coca Cola Truck

The Coca Cola Truck (Photo Credit www.thedrum.com)

Seeing Santa virtually

If all else fails and a visit to see Santa in person is not possible, here are a couple of ideas to help keep the magic alive..

Santa @ Home

PortableNorthPole App

CatchaCharacter

30 Classic Christmas Movies For Kids

  You might also like…

The 15 Best Christmas Markets in the UK

13 Magical Things to do in London with Kids

A Quick Guide to the London Christmas Markets

40+ Gift Ideas for Kids Who Travel

Seriously Festive Santa Train Rides to Try

A Complete Guide to the Christmas Light Trails in the UK

The Best Places to See the London Christmas Lights

What a great resource!! I love the one with the live reindeer!! So coo!!

I know! That one looks super cool. My kids would love it!

Wow, what an incredible resource! You’re making me want to head to the UK for Christmas!

Great! We’ve also got loads of Christmas markets that are getting bigger each year in some beautiful historic locations. The UK is really lovely at Christmas.

Wow – this is a really thorough post. It’s making me miss Christmas :) I never knew there were so many options for Santa in the UK – we may need to consider spending our winter holidays there sometime soon.

I don’t think I even scratched the surface! It’s become so huge in the UK. We just need the snow now… :)

Hi, is this information still accurate in view of the latest Covid restrictions? Are these still happening?

Hi, most of them are still running. I am trying to update as and when I hear of changes. Each link takes you to the website for the grotto / experience and they will also update. In terms of government guidelines and restrictions as to who can visit based on Tiers, that is something that each individual must determine themselves.

Is there anything in Scotland?

There are a few Dobbies garden centres around Scotland and it looks like they’re still running – although suject to local restrictions. A lot of places were already cancelled and didn’t make it on here.

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Top 8 places to meet Santa in London

Winter Wonderland Hyde Park

Christmas in Leicester Square

Christmas in Leicester Square transforms the centre of bustling London into a wonderland including traditional Christmas markets with hand-crafted goods and delicious food and drinks, a Santa’s Grotto where children can meet the man himself, plus a whole host of fantastic shows in the beautiful surrounds of a traditional 1920s spiegeltent.

Christmas at ZSL London Zoo

Get ready for stunning seasonal sparkle as Christmas comes to ZSL London Zoo like never before. Discover our historic site and iconic buildings as a one-mile illuminated pathway winds its way through the Zoo in a magical after-dark experience.

Santa’s Snowflake Grotto at Westfield London

Experience a magical world of snow. You’ll be transported to the Snow Factory in the North Pole, create your own personalised snowflake and meet Santa in his wonderful Snow Chamber.

WWT London Wetland Centre

So much to do at WWT London Wetland Centre. Including, and opportunity for a photo with Santa himself. Don’t miss, elves workshops, donkey rides, husky sleigh rides and much more.

Story-time with Father Christmas

This festive season, Father Christmas will return to Elizabeth Street, Belgravia, with a magical experience for children to enjoy. For two weekends during December only, Father Christmas will open the doors to his enchanting new log cabin, inviting London’s littlest residents to enjoy a storytelling session complete with jolly photographs and a sweat treat by Dominique Ansel Bakery.

Meet Father Christmas at Hamleys

What’s that I hear? Someone very special is making a list, checking it twice and going to find out who’s naughty or nice! Make sure you’re on the nice list and Book Now!

Jingle all the way to the Finest Toy Shop in the world to join Father Christmas and his loveable elves for fun, magic and theatre at this very special time of year. Meet Father Christmas at Hamleys is an extra special experience where children will take part in seasonal games and activities, spend time with Father Christmas and receive an extra special gift bag to take home.

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LONDON FOR KIDZ

• Sep 1, 2023

Santa in London 2024: Where to find Father Christmas this year

There's no news on Santa in London in 2024 yet but here's where he was in 2023. As soon as new intel is in from the elves for more Santa fun, we'll update, so keep checking back!

Christmas at Ho Ho Hopefield Animal Sanctuary

All the profits for this one go back into caring for the 600+ rescued residents at this Essex animal sanctuary, and we've had a sneak peek of the Santa fun which definitely tickled our tinsel. Tickets go on sale mid-October and are limited, so get in quick. There will be a miniature Christmas village, Santa letter writing activity, free mulled wine and mince pie for the grown ups (warm ribena and mince pie for the kids), Christmas trail, Elfie Station, and, of course, that all important meet with Santa in his Christmas Barn, plus a gift for each paying child. The sanctuary will also be open for you to visit all the animals. Psst: we also hear rumour that there is also a Santa Paws Grrrrotto happening for your four-legged friends, and festive Xmas quiz too.

When: Every weekend from 2nd December until 23rd December 2023. Where: Hopefield Animal Sanctuary, Sawyer's Hall Lane, Brentwood CM15 9BZ

www.hopefield.org.uk/

Shrek the Halls!

One of our fave things to do in London with kids is Shrek Adventure, so we can't wait to meet Shrek Santa this December and pose for a picture with him! Guests will be gifted an Xmas card included in the ticket time, and everyone will have, we promise, a most shrekcellent time!

When: 1st to 24th December 2023 Where: Shrek's Adventure, Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7PB

https://prf.hn/click/camref:1101lvZPY

Santa at Legoland Windsor

You will get to see the big man himself – Father Christmas! - at Legoland during the festive period and we just know everything will be awesome. He’ll be roaming around the Park on the back of his magical sleigh, so don’t forget to wave! You can also expect puppet shows, elves and a giant Duplo Xmas tree. There's also the option to upgrade your visit to an overnight stay that includes Father Christmas making a personal visit to your hotel room door!

When: From 25th November 2023

Where: Legoland Windsor, Winkfield Road, Windsor SL4 4AY

www.prf.hn/click/camref:1101lKmJK

Jingle Bell Blast with Thames Rockets

Rev up for one of the most exciting sleigh-rides of the season as you carol sing your way along the River Thames with Santa himself! You and your small elves will sweep across the docklands, whizz past the London Eye, and float by Tower Bridge with the awesome Thames Rocket team on a Christmas experience sure to put the jingle in your bells: don't leave the booking too late though, spaces are limited and yule be sorry to miss out on this treat for sure! We tried it last year and we've got to say it was one of our all-time fave adventures in London EVER! Our advice? Even if you don't make it to see Santa in London this year, book a trip on the Thames Rocket for the next time you can get into town: ridiculously good fun!

When: Selected dates from 2nd December 2023 - sells fast!

Where: Boarding Gate One, The London Eye Pier, SE1 7PB

www.thamesrockets.com/ultimate-london-adventure/?offer=londonforkidz

Santa's Grotto at Alexandra Palace

Santa Claus is swapping the North Pole for North London as he sets up camp in the East Court at Alexandra Palace this December. Little ones will love meeting with Santa, bagging a small gift and having a photo taken with Santa in his festive grotto. Why not up the festive ante by also booking a slot on the ice skating rink?

When: 1st until 23rd December 2023 Where: Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY

https://www.alexandrapalace.com/whats-on/santas-grotto-5/

Hobbledown Adventure Farm Private Santa Experience

It's no secret that here at London for Kidz we love a day out at Hobbledown ( check out our review here ), and we were feeling ding, dong, merrily on high after visiting Santa last year. I ncluded are a teddy bear workshop session and a visit to the magical grotto for a private meeting with Father Christmas himself.

When: Until 24th December 2022

Where: Horton Lane, Epsom KT19 8PT

www.hobbledown.com/epsom/christmas-at-hobbledown/premium-christmas-experience

Santa Express, Audley End Miniature Railway

All aboard the Santa Express for magical, family, Christmas experience that will put get you in a 'full steam ahead' Xmas mood. You'll be boarded on the train by the station nutcrackers before setting off to Father Christmas's Winter Wonderland. Included in the price is the t rain ride to meet Father Christmas, Mother Christmas and their Elves, a gift for every child, letter writing, Illuminated Christmas walk to the Reindeer Food Factory, Holly the Christmas Fairy Storytelling Show and an Adventure Play Area. it's a tad out of town but close enough to count for a Santa in London adventure. When: Now until 24th December 2023 Where: Audley End Road, Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JB

www.audley-end-railway.co.uk/events/christmas

Victorian Santa's grotto at the Museum of London Docklands

It’s almost time to get into the Christmas spirit with a Dickensian-style Victorian Grotto at the Museum of London Docklands! Santa will be waiting for you in his Sailortown Grotto with a festive gift wher you will also have the chance to capture the moment with a snap or two. Once Santa has your wish list safely stored it will be time to experience the Sailortown gallery, which has been transformed with festive decorations and the sound of Victorian carols being sung in the distance. Tickets are already on sale and some slots are already sold out! When: Check website for specific dates still available, happening from 2nd December 2023 Where: No1 Warehouse, West India Quay, London E14 4AL www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london

Black Santa & Grotto

Black Santa is back in town for a magical 90-minute experience in Streatham where you can shop in a festive market, while your children get busy with decorating a Xmas cookie and bauble before watching a short Christmas movie . Plus, of course, the all-important, m eet and greet with Santa complete with gift .

When: 16th December 2023 Where: Sternhold Avenue London SW2 4PA www.eventbrite.com/e/santas-christmas-grotto-market-black-santa-is-in-town

Chelsea Christmas Grotto

Santa has moved into a grotto on Sloane Square for the festive season, and you'll find the magical Chelsea Christmas Grotto situated among the sparkling lights along with a Bavarian Curling Rink and Winter Terrace open until Christmas When: Now until 24th December 2023 Where: Sloane Square, Chelsea www.chelseachristmasgrotto.com

Santa Land at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Sound the trumpets and grab your hat and scarves because Winter Wonderland is back this year and with it comes the chance to not only meet Santa in London, but also to snag a small gift from him (so long as you're on the nice list!). A festive destination designed for the whole family to enjoy and escape from the hustle and bustle of the main event, expect plenty of kids’ rides, festive eateries as well as the Main Man in Red.

When: Now until 1st January 2024

Where: Hyde Park, London

www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/things-to-do/santaland/

Santa's Grotto at Romford Shopping Hall

Father Christmas will be returning to his Grotto in the east of town over at Romford Shopping Hall and you're all invited to take unlimited pics and bag a gift for the kids from the Big Man himself. Our kids love this one!

When: 2nd December 2023

Where: Romford Shopping Hall, 43 Market Place, Romford, RM1 3AB

That's all we've got for now on the Santa in London 2023 score, folks, but we'll keep investigating and updating when more news comes in from the North Pole.

www.eventbrite.com/e/santas-grotto-returns-tickets

Meet Santa at London Zoo

Little ones will get a sprinkling of Christmas magic as they learn what it takes to become one of Santa’s helpers in London Zoo's elf school, before meeting Santa in his magical grotto at the heart of the Zoo. Every child will receive a very special early Christmas gift to take home. We'r checking this one out this weekend, so keep your eyes peeled for the verdict. When: 25th November until 24th December 2023

Where : Outer Circle, London NW1 4RY www.londonzoo.org/plan-your-visit/events/meet-santa-london-zoo

Need some more very merry guides to the festive season? Look no further:

DIY Xmas cards to make with the kids

Essential guide to Elf on the Shelf ideas

Homemade hot choccie recipes we love

Board game ideas to put on the Xmas list

DIY Christmas advent calendars

Countdown to Xmas with these 24 festive flicks

Don't forget to also follow us for more adventures and things to do in London with kids over on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and Pinterest

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Plan Your Perfect Christmas in London 2023: Grottos, Christmas Markets, and Merry Events

“Santa’s grottos near me”

“Breakfast with Santa 2023”

“Where to see Santa 2023”

“Lapland U.K. 2023”

“Santa’s grotto Kent”

Santa’s grotto London”

Are you already thinking ahead to Christmas 2023? Look no further for the best places to book Santa’s grottos and other festive activities. This guide has got you covered.

Table of Contents

Christmas Markets

Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market – 2nd November 2023 until 24th December 2023. Further details here .

Southbank Winter Market – 28th October 2023 – 7th January 2024. Further details here .

Winter By The River – 14th November 2023 – 1st January 2024. Further details here .

Kingston Christmas Market – 16th November 2023 – 31st December 2023. Further details here .

Christmas in Leicester Square – 8th November 2023 – 7th January 2024. Further details here .

Bournemouth Christmas Market – 16th November 2023 – 1st January 2024. Further details here .

Christmas Lights In London 2023

If you’re seeking the finest Christmas lights displays in London, take a look below for top recommendations.

• Oxford Street lights switch on – 2nd November 2023

• Marylebone Village Christmas lights switch on – 9th November 2023

• Merchant Square Paddington Christmas lights switch on – 23rd November 2023

• Chelsea Christmas lights switch on – 18th November 2023

• Carnaby Street lights switch on – 2nd November 2023

• Covent Garden lights switch on – 7th November 2023

• Connaught Village – 17th November 2023

• Belgravia Christmas lights switch on – 15th November 2023

•St Christopher’s Place Christmas lights – 14th November 2023

• Bond Street – TBC

• Regent Street Christmas lights switch on – 9th November 2023

• St James’s Christmas lights switch on – TBC

• Greenwich Market lights – 15th November 2023

• Seven Dials Winter Festival – TBC

• Leadenhall Market – TBC

• Richmond Town Centre – TBC

• Burlington Arcade – TBC

• Kings Cross – TBC

• Leicester Square – TBC

FREE festive things to do in London

The Walking with The Snowman art trail will grace the Fleet Street Quarter from November 20, 2023, through January 2024. Find out more here .

You can explore London’s largest ice sculpture trail on Saturday, November 25th. Putney Town Centre will feature 17 stunning ice sculptures, with the trail commencing at 10 am and continuing until 4 pm.

Explore the excitement at Westfield White City and Stratford for a delightful, cost-free adventure! In collaboration with Disney’s Wish, the “Wish Upon A Star” Santa experience allows your child to make a wish and send it on a star to Santa. Afterward, they get to meet the man in the red suit himself, right in his sleigh. Discover additional details for White City here and for Stratford here .

Mark your calendars for November 18th and head to Westfield Stratford. Immerse yourself in the holiday cheer as the shopping centre kicks off the Christmas season with a festive celebration full of fun! Best part? It’s absolutely free. Find all the details here .

Here’s a delightful and cost-free activity in Chelsea ! Take a charming 20-minute spin on a horse and carriage and explore the festive wonders of the area every Saturday from November 25th to December 16th.

Jump on one of the two coaches available from 12-3 pm and another from 1-4 pm, departing from the corner of Pavilion Road and Symons Street. The carriage accommodates up to six people, making it ideal for the whole family. Keep an eye out for the elf to catch your ride! No need for prebooking, so arrive early to ensure you don’t miss out on the festive fun.

Tesco has introduced an exciting new complimentary grotto in its stores nationwide. London spots, such as New Malden and Wembley, are part of the festive fun. To book your spot, check out the link here .

Festive Movie Screenings

Luna Winter Cinema

📍multiple locations

Price : from £11.25

Dates : selected dates in December

Link to book : book here .

Elf In Concert

📍 Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP

Price : from £25.50

Dates: Saturday 9 December 2023. Starts: 2:30pm, 7:30pm

Festive Workshops

Festive workshops at Hobbycraft

Price : from £5

Date : multiple dates

Link to book : find your nearest store here .

Christmas Gingerbread Decorating Workshop

📍 St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 4JJ

Price : £20 per kid

Dates : 25 November – 23 December

Gingerbread Making Workshops at Fenwick

Price : £15 pp

Dates : 30 November – 21 December

Unique Christmas Experiences

In search of a unique Christmas experience? Discover this excellent list of activities in and around London, perfect for the holiday season.

📍Waterloo, London

Price : from £29

Dates : from November 14th

Christmas With The Unicorns

📍 GU12 6EH, Aldershot, Surrey, England, United Kingdom

Price : from £8

Dates : selected into dates

Kingdom of Winter

📍 ExCeL, London E16 1XL

Price : from £5.50

Dates : 8 December 2023 to 7 January 2024

It’s unlikely to see snow in London this Christmas, but here are some UK venues offering snowy experiences, such as sledging.

Club Curling

📍 Coal Drops Yard London N1C 4DQ

Price : Tickets from £8

Dates : Various dates from Friday 10th November 2023

Sledging at Snozone MK

📍 602 Marlborough Gate Milton Keynes MK9 3XS

Price : £9.99 pp

Dates : open all year round

Link to book : book here . – I don’t recommend this place btw and here’s why .

Sledging at The Snow Centre

📍 The Snow Centre, St Albans Hill, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP3 9NH

Price : £12 pp

Dates : 4 dates over the festive season

SnowDome – Santa’s Winter Wonderland

📍 Leisure Island, Riverdrive, Tamworth B79 7ND

Price : from £17.95 pp. Under 2S go FREE

Dates : From 11th November 2023

Christmas Bus Tours

Discover the Magic of London’s Christmas Bus Tours – A Festive Must-Do! Explore Festive Lights and More with Our Top Picks, Featuring Afternoon Tea Bus Tours. Here is a festive bus guide TFL has created for people on a budget.

Lights and Sights – London Transport Museum

📍 London Transport Museum, Covent Garden Piazza, WC2E 7BB

Price : from £10

Dates : from December 9th

Paddington Christmas Lights Bus Tour

📍 departs from Trafalgar Square

Price : from £35

Dates : From early November to early January,

Grinchmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

📍 departs from Victoria, coach station

Dates : from 13th November

Tootbus Christmas Lights Tour

📍pick up is from Coventry Street.

Price : from £29. Under 5s are FREE

Dates : from November 18th

Peppa Pig Christmas Bus Tour

📍Pick up is from Somerset House

Price : from £38

Dates : from 14th November

Festive Theme park events

If you’re searching for festive theme park events in the London area and beyond, then check out my curated list below, featuring attractions like Legoland and Chessington. You’ll find a wide array of options to choose from.

Winterland Bluewater

📍 Bluewater Shopping Centre, Bluewater Pkwy, Dartford, Greenhithe DA9 9ST

Price : £3 entry

Dates : from 11th November

Christmas Wonderland Lakeside

📍 Thurrock Way, West Thurrock, Grays RM20 2ZP

Price : FREE entry

Shrek’s Adventure grotto

📍 Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB

Price : from £24

Winters Tale – Chessington

📍Leatherhead Rd, Chessington KT9 2NE

Price : from £30

Dates : 25th November – 31st December January 2023

Christmas at Paultons

📍 Ower, Romsey SO51 6AL

Price : from £37

Dates : Christmas at Paultons takes place on selected dates from December

Christmas at Cadbury World

📍Linden Rd, Birmingham B30 1JR

Price : from £14.73

Dates : Weekends 18th November – 17th December + 21st, 22nd & 23rd December 2023.

Christmas at Gulliver’s

📍multiple locations.

Price : from £22

Dates : from December 2023.

Hogwarts In The Snow

📍 Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR

Price : from £51.50

Dates : from 11th November 2023

Winter Wonderland

📍 Hyde Park London

Price : from free

Dates : from 17th November 2023

Christmas at Alton Towers

📍 Farley Ln, Alton, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 4DB

Price : TBC

Dates : Selected dates from 24th November – 30th December

Legoland at Christmas

📍 Winkfield Rd, Windsor SL4 4AY

Price : from £34

Dates : Selected dates from 25th November

Museums and Other Historical sites

Discover numerous museums and historic venues in London and its surroundings where you can enjoy festive events, including enchanting Santa’s grottos. Below, I’ve highlighted some of the top recommendations.

Santa’s grotto at Alexandra Palace

📍 Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, N22 7AY

Price : £14 per child

Dates : 1st – 23rd December 2023

Father Christmas Storytelling Session

📍 Nelson Room, Old Royal Naval College, London SE10 9NN

Dates: 2nd – 23 December

Finding Father Christmas at Charles Dickens Museum

📍 Charles Dickens Museum 48-49 Doughty Street, London, WC1N 2LX

Dates : December 10th

Link to book . Book here .

Storytelling with Santa – Walthamstow Wetlands

📍 2 Forest Road Walthamstow, London N17 9NH

Price : £15

Dates : Saturday 2 December 2023 – Sunday 24 December 2023

Link to book: book here .

Christmas Story Time with Santa’s Head Elf

📍 St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JJ

Price : £15 per kid

Dates : selected dates in November and December

Father Christmas at Fulham Palace

📍 Fulham Palace Bishop’s Avenue Fulham SW6 6EA

Price : £25 per kid

Dates : 24th, 25th and 26th November

Storytelling with Santa at Chiswick House

📍 Chiswick House & Gardens Burlington Lane, Chiswick, W4 2RP

Price : £12.50 per child

Dates : selected dates in November and December.

Victorian Santa’s grotto at the Museum of London Docklands

📍 No 1, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL

Price : £13.50

Dates : from December 2nd

Christmas at The Postal Museum

📍 15-20 Phoenix Pl, London WC1X 0DA

Price : from £4

Dates : from November 1st

Meet Father Christmas at Polesden Lacey

📍 Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, Dorking RH5 6B

Price : from £7

Dates : from November 2023

Meet Father Christmas at Ightham Mote

📍 Mote Rd, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks TN15 0NT

Price : included in admission price

Father Christmas at Gunnersbury

📍Gunnersbury Park Museum Gunnersbury Park House Popes Lane London W5 4NH

Father Christmas at Modern Hall Park

📍National Trust Morden Hall Park Morden Hall Road Morden London SM4 5JD

Visit Father Christmas at Hatchlands Park

📍 National Trust -Hatchlands East Clandon Guildford GU4 7RT

Price : from £7.50

Elf Cadets at The Royal Airforce Museum

📍 Grahame Park Way, London NW9 5LL

Price : £5 per child

Danson House grotto

📍 Danson House, Danson Park, Bexleyheath, DA6 8HL

Price : from £11.43

Dates : from 1st December

Father Christmas at Kenwood

📍 Hampstead Ln, London NW3 7JR

Father Christmas at Marble hill

📍 Marble Hill, Twickenham TW1 2NL

Price : £12:50 per child

Father Christmas at Bletchley Park

📍 The Mansion, Bletchley Park, Sherwood Dr, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK3 6EB

Price : from £11

Link to book : more info here .

Festive Afternoon teas

Explore the options below if you’re on the hunt for delightful festive afternoon teas in London to enjoy with your family.

The Snowman Afternoon Tea

📍 JW Marriott Grosvenor House London, W1K 7TN

Dates : From 18th November 2023 – 7th January 2024

Ice Palace afternoon tea

📍 372 Strand, London WC2R 0JJ United Kingdom

Price : from £25

Dates : 7th November – 31st December.

Festive Charlie & the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea

📍 1 Aldwych, West End, London, WC2B 4BZ

Dates : from 22nd November to 7th January 2024

Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair

📍 35 Charles St, London W1J 5EB

Price : from £45

Dates : 17th November 2022 – 2nd January 2024.

Link to Book : book here .

SEND friendly Christmas experiences

If you’re searching for an inclusive and family-friendly Christmas experience in the London area and beyond, explore the curated list below. These events are tailored to provide a peaceful atmosphere and cater to the needs of SEND children.

Santas Quiet Grotto at Dobbies – book here .

SEN session with Father Christmas at Ruxley Manor – book here .

Quiet/Calm hour at Ice Rink Westfield White City – book here .

Audley End Autism & SEN Friendly Session – Christmas Special 2023 – book here .

The Relaxed Vintage Christmas Grotto, for families with additional needs – more information here .

Victorian Santa’s grotto at the Museum of London Docklands – book here .

Breakfast, lunch, dinner with Santa

If you’re seeking Santa-themed breakfast experiences in London and its vicinity, explore the following curated list. Additionally, discover delightful lunch and dinner options for your festive celebrations:

Breakfast with Santa at Fenwick Kingston

📍 Bentalls Kingston upon Thames

Price : £27.50 pp

Dates : runs every Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 17 December 2023, and then daily from 21 to 24 December 2023.

Price : from £7.99

Dates : from 2nd December

Breakfast with Santa at Beefeater

Price : £6.99 per child

Dates : Every Saturday & Sunday in December plus every day from 19th-24th December

Breakfast with Santa at Brewers Fayre

Price : from £6.99

Breakfast with Santa at Hungry Horse

Price : £8 prepayment per child is required in order to secure your booking.

Dates : Available: 9th, 16th, 17th, 23rd and 24th December 2023

Breakfast with Santa at Harvester

📍 multiple locations

Price : from £9.99

Dates : available throughout December

Breakfast with Santa Hard Rock Cafe Mayfair

📍 150 Old Park Lane, Mayfair, London W1K 1QZ

Price : Tickets from £6.95

Dates : 10th December

Dine With Santa – Knebworth House

📍 Old Knebworth Ln, Stevenage SG1 2AX

Price : from £28

Shopping Centre Grottos

During the festive season, your nearby shopping centres, toy stores, and more frequently feature Santa’s grottos. Check out the list below to discover the ones available in and around London.

Santa’s Grotto & The Wishmas Owl Garden

📍 W Thurrock Way, West Thurrock, Grays RM20 2ZP

Price : from £2

Dates : from November 24th

Father Christmas at Liberty London

📍 Regent St., Carnaby, London W1B 5AH

Price : £25

Dates : from November 19th

Father Christmas Grotto with Sharky & George at St. Pancras

📍 St Pancras International, Euston Road London N1C 4QP

Dates : from November 17th

An Adventure In Anya’s Grotto

📍The Village Hall, 11 Pont St, Belgravia, London, SW1X 9EH

Price : tickets are priced at £45 for 1 adult and 1 child. You may add additional adults and children for £35 per person.

Dates : from 13 November to 24 December

Bentalls Kingston: Santa’s Grotto

Price : The tickets are priced at £12.50 per person

Dates : Runs from 22 November – 20 December

Believe at Bluewater Shopping Centre

📍 Bluewater, Dartford, Greenhithe DA9 9ST

Price : from £6

Dates : 25th November and 24th December

📍 London Regent Street 188-196 Regent Street London W1B 5BT

Price : from £55

Dates : Selected dates from Monday 20th November – Friday 24th December 2023.

Meet Santa at Ealing Broadway

📍 Ealing Broadway Ealing London W5 5JY

Price : £7 per child

Greenwich Market Grotto 2023

📍 Greenwich Market, Durnford Street, Greenwich, SE10 9BF

Price : £11.43

Father Christmas Storytelling at Fortnum and Mason

📍 181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London W1A 1ER

Price : £40 per child

Dates : TBC

Link to book : book here on September 8th.

Santa’s grotto at John Lewis

Santa’s Grotto with The Snowman

📍 Milton Keynes MK9 3ES

Dates : November 17th – December 24th

Festive Farm and Zoo Events

If you’re on the hunt for festive Santa farm and zoo visits in and around London, explore this excellent list below for your ideal options.

The magic of Christmas at London zoo

📍 Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY

Price : from £15.50

Dates : 25 November – 24 December

Christmas at Whipsnade zoo

📍 Whipsnade, Dunstable LU6 2LF

Willows Activity Farm Santa Spectacular

📍 Coursers Rd, St Albans AL4 0PF

Dates : from 24th November 2023

Christmas at Hobbledown Epsom

📍Hobbledown, Horton Lane, Epsom, Surrey, KT19 8PT

Dates : from November 25th

Christmas at Hobbledown Heath

📍 Staines Rd, Hounslow TW14 0HH

The magical Christmas adventure at 4 kingdoms 📍 Newbury Road, Headley, Thatcham RG19 8JY Price : from £27 Dates : from November 24th Link to book : book here .

Christmas At Mead Open Farm

📍 Stanbridge Rd, Leighton Buzzard LU7 9JH

Christmas at Paradise Wildlife park

📍 White Stubbs Ln, Broxbourne EN10 7QA

Price : Entry to Santa’s Grotto is included with your day tickets.

Dates : from 2nd December and every day from 16th December to 24th December.

Christmas At Drusillas

📍 Zoo Park Ltd, Drusillas, Berwick, Polegate BN26 5QS

Price : from £18

Dates : 25th Nov – 23rd Dec 2022

Festive Fisher

📍 Newpound Lane, Wisborough Green RH14 0EG

Price : from £15

Christmas Fairytale at Fairytale Farm

📍 Southcombe OX7 5QH

Price : from £7.49

Dates : December 2nd – December 24th.

Christmas Spectacular at Odds Farm Park

📍 High Wycombe HP10 0LX

Price : from £14.95

Dates : Selected dates 25th November – 24th December 2023

The Father Christmas experience at Marsh Farm

📍 CM3 5WP

Price : from £20

Dates : November 18th – December 24th

Tulleys Christmas Experience

📍Turners Hill Rd, Crawley RH10 4PE

Price : from £12.95

Dates : November 25th – December 24th

Father Christmas at Godstone Farm

📍 Farm Limited, Tilburstow Hill Rd, Godstone RH9 8LX

Price : from £16.95

Christmas at Bocketts Farm Park

📍Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 9BS

Dates : 23rd November – 24th December 2023

OMD’s Christmas Journey

📍 Weald Rd, Brentwood CM14 5AY

Price : from £19.50

Christmas at Barleylands

📍 Barleylands Rd, Billericay CM11 2UD

Price : from £12.40

Garden Centre Grottos 

In and around London, numerous garden centers play host to Santa visits. Explore the list below for your best Santa experiences.

Santa at Polhill 📍 Polhill Garden Centre London Rd, Sevenoaks TN14 7AD Price : £15 per child and £2 per adult. Dates : selected dates in November and December Link to book : book here from 12th September 202.

Christmas at Dobbies Garden Centre 📍multiple dates and locations Price : from £11.99 Dates : multiple dates in November and December Link to book : book here .

Enchanted Grotto at Coolings Lifestyle 📍 Coolings The Gardener’s Garden Centre Rushmore Hill Knockholt Kent TN14 7NN Price : from £7.50 Dates : from November 18th Link to book : book here .

Santa’s Christmas Wonderland – Chessington Garden Centre 📍Leatherhead Rd, Chessington KT9 2NG Price : From £9.25 Dates : from 18th November 2023 Link to book : book here . SEND tickets available. 

Frosts Garden Centre 📍 Various sessions available at their Woburn Sands, Millets Farm and Willington centres Price : 1 adult and 1 child from £30 Dates : from early November – Christmas Eve Link to book : book here . SEND tickets available. 

Ruxley Manor Grotto 📍 Maidstone Rd, Orpington, Sidcup DA14 5BQ Price : from £9 Dates : from November 2023 Link to book : Christmas Grotto Tickets will be available for general release at 10am on Wednesday 13th September 2023. SEND tickets available. 

If you’re seeking a fun ice-skating experience to embrace the holiday spirit in London, explore the fantastic list I’ve curated below.

Glide Battersea Power station

📍 SW8 5BN

Price : from £8.50

Dates : from November 10th

Skate West End

📍 W1S 1HD

Price : Adult from £15 | Children from £13

Dates : 4 Nov 23 – 1 Jan 24

Jw3 ice rink

📍 341-351 Finchley Rd, NW3 6ET

Dates : 10 Dec 23 – 7 Jan 24

Christmas at the Quarter

📍 Wimbledon Quarter, 4 Queens Road, Wimbledon SW19 8ND

Dates : From 18th November 2023

Ice Rink at Winter Village, Westfield 📍 W12 7GF Price : Adults from £15.00 | Children from £11. Dates : Friday 10th November 2023 – Sunday 7th January 2024 Link to book : book here .

Tulleys Ice Skating

📍 Turners Hill Rd, Crawley RH10 4PE

Price: from £7

Dates: November 25th – December 24th

ICE at Kensington Palace

📍 Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX

Price: from £16

Dates: November 30 – January 7 2024.

Ruxley Manor Ice Rink

📍 Maidstone Rd, Orpington, Sidcup DA14 5BQ

Dates : November 10th – January 7th 2024

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink

📍 Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink, Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, KT8 9AU

Price : from £14

Dates : from 17th November 2023 – 7th Janaury 2024.v

Queens House Ice Rink

📍 Romney Rd, London SE10 9NF

Price: From £10

Dates: Open everyday from Thursday 23rd November to Sunday 7th January, except Christmas Day

Link to Book: book here .

Ice Rink Canary Wharf

📍Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AB.

Price : from £13.50

Dates : from October 2023

Skate at Somerset House

📍Strand, London WC2R 1LA

Price: from £8

Dates: from 15th November 2023

Link to book: book here from 29th September 2023.

Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre

📍390 Streatham High Road, London SW16 6HX

Price : Adults £9.78 | Children £9.20 | Under 5 £1.45

Dates : Open all year round!

Iceskating at Alexandra Palace

📍Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY

Price : Adults from £9.50 | Children from £6.50.

Queens skate dine Bowl

📍 17 Queensway, London W2 4QP

Price : Adults from £8 | Children from £8.

Iceskating at Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland

📍 W2 2UH

Price : Adults from £11.50 | Children from £8.50.

Dates : 17th November 2023 – 1st January 2024

Lee Valley Ice Centre

📍 Lea Bridge Rd, London E10 7QL

Price : Adults from £10 | Children from £8.

Dates : open all year round.

Christmas lights trails

There’s nothing like Christmas lights to give you a serotonin boost. Here’s my list of Christmas lights trails in and around London, with Christmas at Kew being the most popular.

Sparkle In The Park

📍 Avery Hill Park, Bexley Rd, London SE9 2PQ

Price : FREE

Dates : 30th November 2023 – 3rd December 2023

Link to book : just turn up on the night .

Land of Lights Lantern Festival Gulliver’s Resort MK

📍 Gulliver’s Land, Livingstone Drive, Newlands, Milton Keynes, MK15 0DT

Dates : from October 21st

Glow Marwell

📍Marwell Wildlife, Thompson’s Lane, Colden Common, Winchester, Hants SO21 1JH

Dates : selected dates between 24 November and 30 December 2023.

The Festival of Light Longleat

📍 Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW

Price : from £18.70

Dates : selected dates from 11th November 2023 – 7th January 2024.

Illuminature

📍 WWT London, Queen Elizabeth Walk, Barnes, London, SW13 9WT

Link to book : TBC

Christmas at Kew

📍Kew Gardens, Victoria Gate, Richmond TW9 3JR

Price: from £15

Dates: Selected dates, 15 November 2023 to 7 January 2024

Link to book: on sale NOW! Book here .

Christmas at Blenheim Palace

📍Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL

Price: from £10

Dates: 7th November 2023 – 1st January 2024

Christmas at Kenwood

Price : from £19.25

Dates : from December 1st

Glow Wild 2023 at Wakehurst

📍 Selsfield Rd, Haywards Heath RH17 6TN

Price : from £11.50

Dates : Selected evenings 23 November 2022 to 1 January 2023

Christmas at Eltham Palace 

📍Court Yard, Eltham, Greenwich, SE9 5NP

Price : from £14.63

Dates : 1 December 2023 – 1 January 2024

Leonardslee Illuminated 2023 at Leonardslee Gardens

📍 Brighton Road, Horsham RH13 6PP

Price : from £9

Dates : from November 24th 2023

Festive Train Rides

Santa Steam Express

📍Victoria station, London

Price : from £65 pp

Dates : Friday 15 December, Monday 18 December and Thursday 21 December.

Steam Illuminations – Watercress Line

📍 The Railway Station, Station Road, New Alresford SO24 9JG

Price : from £59

The Polar Express Ride – The Spa Valley Railway

📍West Station, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN2 5QY

Price: from £36.95

Dates: from November 2023

The Polar Express Ride – Churnet Valley Railway

📍Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC, Kingsley & Froghall Station, Froghall, ST10 2HA

Price : from £22.95

Link to book : Book here .

Christmas at Audley End Miniature Railway

📍 Audley End Rd, Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JB

Dates : 18th November to 24th December 2023

Link to book : Tickets on sale Monday 4th September 2023.

Panto and other Christmas theatre

Is it truly Christmas without securing Panto tickets? Catching a Panto is a cherished Christmas tradition, and there are plenty of options in and around London. Explore my curated list of diverse festive theater experiences. Don’t miss “The Snowman” at the Peacock Theatre – a highly recommended choice!

The Elves and the Magic Bear

📍 Admiral’s House, Old Royal Naval College, London SE10 9NN

Price : from £12

Dates : 9th – 12th December

Jack and The Beans Talk

📍 1 Clapham Common North Side, London SW4 0LH

Dates : 3 Dec & 9-10 Dec

📍 Lavender Hill, London SW11 5TN

The Snowman

📍Peacock theatre, Portugal St, London WC2A 2HT

Dates : 18 November – 30 December 2023

📍 The London Palladium 8 Argyll St, London W1F 7TF

Price: from £25

Dates: Sat 9 December 2023 – Sun 14 January 2024

Royal Albert Hall Presents: My Christmas Orchestral Adventure

Price : from £22.50

Dates : Sunday 10 December 2023 – 12:30pm & 4:30pm

Dick Whittington – Richmond Theatre

📍 1 Little Grn, Richmond TW9 1QH

Price : from £13

Dates: Sat 9 Dec 2023 – Sun 7 Jan 2024

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs – New Wimbledon Theatre

📍 93 The Broadway, London SW19 1QG

Dates : Fri 8 Dec 2023 – Sun 7 Jan 2024

Here Comes Santa Claus!

📍 Studio at New Wimbledon Theatre

Price : from £17.05

Dates : Wed 13 Dec – Sun 24 Dec 2023

Cinderella – Stratford East

📍 Theatre Royal Stratford East, Theatre Royal Stratford East, Gerry Raffles Square, London, E15 1BN

Dates : Sat 18 Nov 2023 – Sat 06 Jan 2024

Jack and the Beanstalk – Churchill Theatre

📍 The Orchard Theatre Home Gardens, Dartford DA1 1ED

Dates : Sat 9 – Sat 31 December 2023

Cinderella – Lyric Theatre Hammersmith

📍 Lyric Square, King St, London W6 0QL

Dates : 18 Nov 2023 – 06 Jan 2024

Santa’s On His Sleigh!

📍G Live London Rd, Guildford GU1 2AA

Price : from £17

Dates : 16th December – 24th December 2023

Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas

📍Lyric Theatre Lyric Square, King St, London W6 0QL

Dates : 22 November- 30 December 2023

📍Churchill Theatre, High Street, Bromley, BR1 1HA

Price : from £26

Dates : 2 December – 31 December 2023

Beauty and The Beast

📍 The Beck Theatre Grange Rd, Hayes UB3 2UE

Dates : 8 December – 31 December 2023

Peter Pan on Ice

📍 Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, London N22 7AY

Price: from £10.50

Dates: 8 th – 11th December 2023

ELF The Musical

📍 Dominion Theatre 268-269 Tottenham Court Rd, Fitzrovia, London W1T 7AQ

Dates : from 15 November to 6 January.

The Snow Queen

📍Polka Theatre 240 The Broadway, London SW19 1SB

Dates : Saturday 11 November – Sunday 21 January

The Night Before Christmas

Dates :Saturday 18 November – Sunday 14 January

You may also enjoy:

Our first groupon holiday – berlin, wish upon a star – santa experience: discover …, illuminate your holidays: a comprehensive walking guide …, pantomime perfection: our honest review of cinderella …, 16 comments.

What amazing ideas!! You have put so much into it. I’m a huge Christmas lover so I am so excited. I live 10 minutes from Blenheim Oalace and can confirm that the lights trail is absolutely amazing! Thank you for posting! X

No problem! Blenheim looks amazing! Really looking forward to it! X

You’ll have a fabulous time! X

Love that Christmas is on your mind already – and the beginning of a new year soon! We need it

Christmas is always in my mind 😆

Never too early for Christmas! Especially with what’s going on in the world, doesn’t hurt to have something to look forward to!

Thanks so much for the round up. You’ve saved me hours of time.

No worries:)

This is just fantastic!! you are amazing always on top to offer the great days and evenings out with the kids and great discounted one too!!! 🙂

Aww thank you 💜💜

Wow, what a fantastic, comprehensive list! Thanks so much for doing all this research and saving busy parents valuable time.

No problem and thank you 🙂

Best list out there! Can’t wait for your personal Christmas lights trail!

Thank you so much! I look forward to writing it 🙂

Lots to keep busy here, thanks

You’re welcome 🙂

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• Santas Grotto

What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than to visit an old friend, Santa Claus? We’ve kept track of Santa and his elves, so we know all the best grottos in the UK that you can visit for a spectacular time.

Find Santa at his grottos in:

North East and Yorkshire | North West | West Midlands | East Midlands | East Anglia | London | South East | South West | Northern Ireland | Scotland | Wales

Santa’s Grottos in the North East and Yorkshire and the Humber

Raby Castle, County Durham

Meet Father Christmas this winter at Raby Castle. Gather round the fire and prepare for a silent night with Mr Claus reading classic tales. There’ll also be singing, dancing and a present or two for those who are on the nice list.

Dates: 25th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £24.50*

Nearby campsite: Barnard Castle Club Site

National Coal Mining Museum, Wakefield

Santa loves climbing down chimneys, and this year, he’s taken his love of climbing to new depths. He’s gone 140m underground to hang out in his unique grotto. If you’re on the nice list this year, you can visit him at the National Coal Mining Museum and receive plenty of presents. But if you’re on the naughty list, you may leave with a lump of coal.

Dates: 25 November – 24 December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £10*

Nearby campsite: Crowden Club Site

York’s Chocolate Story, North Yorkshire

Could Christmas get any sweeter? Well, at York’s Chocolate Story, not only will you get the chance to meet Father Christmas, but you’ll also get to make chocolate with him and take home some yummy treats.

Dates: 25th November – 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £6*

Nearby campsite: Sheriff Hutton Club Site

The Christmas Experience, West Yorkshire

Jingle all the way into the holiday spirit at The Christmas Experience. This family fun event will have you going on a traditional woodland walk, watching the garden light up with twinkling lights, enjoying hot chocolate or mulled wine, crafting in the elf village with Mrs Claus and meeting Santa at his grotto.

Dates: 25th November 2023 – 7th January 2024*

Ticket prices: From £4.75*

More places to see Santa in the North East and Yorkshire and the Humber:

• Christmas at Thackray | Leeds | 18th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £7
• Weardale Railway Christmas Santa Specials | County Durham  | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £25
• The Elf Explorer at Worth Valley | Bradford | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £22
• Santa’s Magical Grotto at The Yorkshire Hive | Doncaster | 2nd – 17th December 2023 | From £5
• Father Christmas at Gibside Stables | Tyne & Wear | 2nd – 23rd December 2023 | From £12
• Meet Father Christmas at Kielder Winter Wonderland | Northumberland  | 19th November – 23rd December 2023 | £33.50
• Father Christmas at Bamburgh Castle | Northumberland  | 18th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £19.95

Santa’s Grottos in the North West

The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Windermere

Join Santa Claus for a tea party at The World of Beatrix Potter. You’ll meet Santa, take a photo with him in his Sleigh, and receive an early Christmas present.

Dates: 2nd – 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £7.50*

Nearby campsite: Bowness-on-Windermere Club Site

Walby Farm Park, Cumbria

Santa’s grotto at Walby Farm Park is more than just your average grotto. You’ll have so much fun and be very busy with the ten interactive festive activities. From greeting snowmen to making reindeer food, decorating gingerbread biscuits and chatting with Santa – you’ll definitely have a snow-some time.

Ticket prices: From £3*

Nearby campsite: Haltwhistle Club Site

Honister, Cumbria

Santa’s secret underground grotto at Honister is not one to be missed. This secret wonderland experience can be found in the heart of the Lake District, hidden from the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season. It’s no wonder why Santa has chosen to hide out here, away from the world. Luckily, only a select and nice few can visit him. Will it be you?

Dates: 18th November – 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £5*

Nearby campsite: Keswick Club Site

Chester Boat, Chester

Santa doesn't just sleigh through the night; he enjoys sailing on the River Dee with his cheeky elves during the day. They've done a phenomenal job transforming the boats into a floating winter wonderland perfect for a family day out. On this adventure, you’ll get to speak to Santa and his elves, as well as receive a festive book to read over the holidays.

Dates: Limited availability*

Ticket prices: From £9*

Nearby campsite: Delamere Forest Club Site

Knowsley Safari Experience, Knowsley

Watch as your little ones' face lights up as they meet Santa and his elves in their workshop at Knowsley Safari Experience. To remember the moment, you’ll have a professional souvenir photo taken and kids visiting Santa will all receive a cuddly toy and a goody bag full of festive treats.

Dates: 18th November – 30th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £20*

More places to see Santa in the North West:

• Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Hayes Garden World | Cumbria  | 3rd November – 23rd December 2023 | From £4
• Holker’s Christmas Grotto | Cumbria  | 2nd – 23rd December 2023 | From £8
• Christmas at the Ice Cream Farm | Cheshire  | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £2.25
• Sands Gifts Penrith | 25th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £10
• Baby and Toddler Festive Play at Quarry Bank | Cheshire  | 1st – 22nd December 2023 | From £12
• Otterspool Adventure Centre Christmas Experience | Liverpool | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £25
• John Lewis Santa’s Grotto | Liverpool | 23rd November – 24th December 2023 | From £2
• Everyman and Playhouse Santa’s Grotto | Liverpool | 1st – 23rd December 2023 | From £9.50
• Farmer Teds Farmer Christmas | Lancashire  | 25th November – 21st December 2023 | From £16
• East Lancashire Railway Santa Special | Lancashire  | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £22.50
• Christmas on the Farm | Oldham | 2nd – 24th December 2023 | From £10
• The Hayloft Santa Experience | Cheshire  | 2nd – 24th December 2023 | From £7
• Cruise with Father Christmas | Manchester | 25th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £12

Santa’s Grottos in the West Midlands

National Sea Life Centre, Birmingham

The National Sea Life Centre is spreading the Christmas cheer this year as they host Santa's Grotto Experience. You'll see over 2000 beautiful creatures, including sharks, penguins, and sea otters, as well as say hello to Santa and his cheeky elves.

Best of all, each child goes home with an early Christmas present from Santa.

Ticket prices: From £8.50*

Nearby campsite: Kingsbury Water Park Club Site

Cadbury World, Birmingham

Santa’s not the only one with a sweet tooth this Christmas. He’s stopping off at Cadbury World to stock up on all their chocolatey treats. You can visit him too for a family fun adventure with live music, games, gifts, and, of course, chocolate!

Ticket prices: From £12*

Nearby campsite: Clent Hills Club Site

West Midlands Safari & Leisure Park, Worcestershire

With numerous packages to choose from, you’ll have a roar-some time at the West Midlands Safari Park. You can see over 600 animals, from the mighty king of the jungle to the friendly giraffes and peaceful camels. As part of the park's winter extravaganza, you can visit Santa and his elves at his grotto or go skating on the safari ice rink.

Dates: 24th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £13*

Nearby campsite: Wolverley Club Site

Black Country Living Museum, Dudley

SANTA’S MISSING! The elves need your help to solve clues and find Santa before the big day. Go on a Santa Hunt and explore the village, hop aboard the vintage bus, and take part in festive tasks to find the main man himself. Once found, you can enjoy a little early Christmas present to say thank you and picture with Santa. Don’t forget to indulge in some wonderful Christmas treats before you head off home.

Dates: Weekends from 25th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £9.45*

Drayton Manor, Staffordshire

Kick off your festive family adventure at Drayton Manor Theme Park. Go on an illuminating journey through a Christmas dreamland and visit Santa at his enchanted grotto. You’ll get to meet him, enjoy some lovely treats and hot chocolate, and take a family photo to cherish the memory for years to come.

Dates: 25th November - 31st December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £30*

Nearby campsite: Drayton Manor Club Site

Telford Steam Railway, Shropshire

Hop aboard the Polar Express at Telford Steam Railway. This immersive re-creation of the popular Polar Express [2004] film is a magical way to welcome the festive season. Not only will you enjoy an exciting journey to the North Pole, but you’ll also get to meet Santa and his mischievous elves, who’ll climb aboard with plenty of gifts and stories to tell.

Dates: 24th November – 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £7*

Nearby campsite: Ebury Hill Club Site

More places to see Santa in the West Midlands:

• Santa’s Winter Wonderland at The Snowdome | Staffordshire  | 11th Nov 2023 – 7th Jan 2024 | From £17.95
• Santa’s Grotto at Exotic Zoo Wildlife Park | Telford | 2nd – 24th Dec 2023 | From £8
• Santa’s Grotto at Dobbies | Shrewsbury | 8th Dec 2023 | From £11.99
• Vintage Trains Polar Express | Birmingham  | 25th Nov – 23rd Dec 2023 | From £39
• Santa at Blakesley Hall  | Birmingham  | 9th – 10th Dec 2023 | From £30 (Family ticket of 6)
• Santa at the Valley | Sandwell | 25th Nov – 21st Dec 2023 | From £4
• Santa Sleepover at Alton Towers | Staffordshire  | 24th Nov – 23rd Dec 2023 | From £85

Santa’s Grottos in the East Midlands

Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire

Whether you're looking for a romantic Christmas experience or a family outing, visiting Belvoir Castle, which hosts the Twelve Days of Christmas, is worth it. This immersive experience includes viewing a well-decorated castle with something new to discover around every corner, wandering through gift shops selling handmade trinkets and visiting Santa at his grotto.

Dates: 2nd – 24th December 2023*

Waterside Shopping, Lincoln

Lincoln's shopping centre has yet again invited Mr Claus and his elves to set up their grotto in the lower mall. Obviously, Santa couldn't resist, so you can see him and his hard-working elves throughout the festive season.

Nearby campsite: Woodhall Spa Club Site

Town Hall Square, Leicester

Town Hall Square welcomes Santa, you and your loved ones to enjoy an unforgettable Christmas. Stroll through the Christmas Markets before getting your chance to see Santa and his elves for free. You can also enjoy the ice skating rink and Ferris Wheel.

Dates: 1st December 2023 – 2nd January 2024*

Ticket prices: Free*

Nearby campsite:  Conkers Club Site

Peak Wildlife Park, Leek

Wrap up warm and head to Santa's magical grotto in Peak Wildlife Park. Here, the elves have been on their best behaviour, and they're helping all of Santa's friends write their wish lists and create beautiful crafts to take home.

Ticket prices: From £12.95*

Nearby campsite: Alton, The Star Club Site

Poole Cavern, Derbyshire

Are you in search of Santa's real grotto? Look no further as he returns to Poole Cavern to visit all his favourite friends. You'll get to meet Santa and explore the beautifully illuminated natural cavern deep beneath the hills of Buxton. Before going home, remember to pick up your present from the elves and walk through the enchanting lights.

Ticket prices: From £16.50*

Nearby campsite: Leek Club Site

More places to see Santa in the East Midlands:

• Chatsworth Storytime with Father Christmas | Bakewell  | 2nd – 23rd December 2023 | From £12
• Peak Rail Santa and Steam Special | Matlock  | 2nd – 23rd December 2023 | From £40
• Matlock Farm Park Santa Experience | Matlock  | 26th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £12.50
• The Secret Workshop of Torr Vale Mill | Peak District  | 3rd – 17th December 2023 | From £18.04
• Rand Farm Park The Real Christmas Experience | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £13.95
• Storytime with Santa at Waterside Garden Centr e | Peterborough | 2nd – 24th December 2023 | From £9.99
• Santa’s Grotto at Rufford Abbey | Nottinghamshire | 25th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £9.95
• Breakfast with Santa at Wheelgate Park | Newark | 9th December 2023 | From £15.99

Santa’s Grottos in East Anglia

Wroxham barns, norfolk.

Leave the grinches at home and enjoy a fun family day out at Wroxham Barns, The Christmas Experience. You and your family can ride on the North Pole Express, where you’ll visit Santa at his grotto and receive a golden coin to spend at Santa’s Toy Factory. You can also attend the Mrs Claus Show, visit Reindeer HQ, pop into the North Pole Post Office, check out the elves' workshop and more.

Nearby campsite: Norwich Club Site

North Norfolk Railway, Norfolk

Hop on the North Norfolk Railways for a magical journey on a traditional steam-hauled train. This one hour and 45 minutes consists of complimentary onboard refreshments (mince pies and mulled cider for adults and gingerbread and hot chocolate for children). There are also activity packs for children, live entertainment and balloon modellers. On your return, hop off at Weybourne Station, where you can go through the enchanted Christmas Tree Kingdom and meet Santa Claus and his elves. Here, Santa will gift every child an early Christmas present before you head back to Sheringham.

Nearby campsite: West Runton Club Site

Roarr!, Norwich

Roarr! has transformed into a Winter Wonderland ready for a visit from Father Christmas. With a Christmas celebration full of seasonal surprises, festive activities and a visit from the man himself, you’ll have a spectacular time at the dinosaur-themed attraction park. Don't forget to visit the Candy Cane Trail, put on your skates for the ice skating rink and get creative at Mrs. Claus's gingerbread decorating class.

Ticket prices: From £15.95*

Africa Alive, Suffolk

Back with an even bigger and better Christmas celebration than before is the Africa Alive Christmas Experience. You’ll get to step aboard the winter train with an expert ranger and head towards the zoo. On your journey, you’ll visit Father Christmas and tell him about all the exciting animals you saw.

Ticket prices: From £9.95*

Nearby campsite: Right outside Kessingland Club Site

Skylark Garden Centre, Cambridgeshire

Visit Santa’s Grotto in Cambridgeshire for a memorable family fun experience. Get creative with gingerbread decorating, sing along to your favourite Christmas jingles, write letters to Santa, build your own bear, and last but definitely not least, pay a visit to Santa Claus and tell him about your fabulous adventure.

Ticket prices: From £4*

Nearby campsite: St Neots Club Site

More places to see Santa in East Anglia:

• Mid Norfolk Railway Polar Express | Norfolk  | 11th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £27.50
• Banham Zoo: Christmas Experience | Norfolk  | 24th November – 24th December 2023 | From £12.95
• Norwich Aviation Museum: Father Christmas Lands | Norwich  | 10th December 2023 | From £3.00 (Purchase at gate only)

Santa’s Grottos in London

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park brings you Santaland! You’ll be transported to the North Pole, where you can meet Santa and enjoy fun rides.

Dates: 17th November 2023 – 1st January 2024*

Nearby campsite: Chertsey Club Site

Chessington World of Adventure

Chessington World of Adventures is one you’ll want to check off the list. You’ll get the chance to meet Santa in his log fire grotto, and new to 2023 is the chance for you and your family to wander through the delightful underground town of Enchanted Hollow, which is decked out in all its festive finery.

Dates: 25th November – 31st December 2023*

Nearby campsite: Walton on Thames Club Site

Shrek’s Adventure

Fancy a change from the traditional Santa’s grotto at the North Pole? You can swap the North Pole for the Swamp and visit Shrek Santa in his muddy paradise. The big green ogre has taken over from Santa to create a festive adventure fit for the whole family.

Ticket prices: From £24*

London Transport Museum

Santa is landing his sleigh at the London Transport Museum to see if he needs an upgrade. Whilst he’s there, he wants to see all his lovely friends. He’ll tell stories about his adventures and join in the festive fun activities.

Dates: 24th November 2023 – 4th January 2024*

Ticket prices: From free*

Legoland Windsor Resort

Build memories that’ll last forever at Legoland Christmas holidays spectacular. You’ll see twinkling lights and snow-dusted trees, as well as enjoy a live show and many rides that’ll put you in the festive spirit. If that’s not all, you can snap up a picture with Santa (the real and Lego version) and explore his grotto.

Nearby campsite: Chertsey Club Site  

Paradise Wildlife Park

Santa is on his way to meet all the lovely animals at Paradise Wildlife Park. He’d love to see you at his grotto as well as hanging out with Rudolph and his other favourite animals.

Ticket prices: From £23*

Nearby campsite: Hertford Club Site

More places to see Santa in London:

• The Magic of Christmas at London Zoo | 3rd – 24th December 2023 | From £15.50
• Hamleys Grotto | 22nd November – 24th December 2023 | From £55
• Santa's grotto at the Museum of London | 2nd – 23rd December 2023 | £13.50
• Santa at Ealing Broadway | 18th November – 24th December 2023 | From £7
• Santa’s Grotto at John Lewis | 22nd November – 24th December 2023 | From £10
• Santa’s Grotto with The Snowman | 17th November – 24th December 2023 | From £5.50
• Santa Spectacular at Willows Activity Farm | 24th November – 24th December 2023 | From £24
• Christmas at Drusillas Park | 25th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £18
• Festive Fishers Adventure Farm Park | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £18
• Christmas Fairytale Farm | 2nd – 24th December 2023 | From £7.75
• Tulleys Christmas Experience | | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | £12.95
• Chessington Garden Centre | 18th November – 24th December 2023 | From £6
• Wishmas | 14 November 2023 – 7th January 2024 | From £49
• Chelsea Christmas Grotto | 19th November – 24th December 2023 | From £15
• Christmas at Hobbledown Heath | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £65

Santa’s Grottos in the South East

Christmas at Bewl Water, Kent

Join Santa and his woodland friends at Bewl Water. The enchanted woodland is a cosy place to tell Christmas stories, sing carols and enjoy toasted marshmallows and hot chocolate. You'll also get to the top of your fun day at Santa's grotto, where you'll meet Father Christmas and his cheeky elves.

Dates: 18th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £15*

Nearby campsite: Crowborough Club Site

Beale Wildlife Park, Reading

Get lost in the Christmas magic at Beale Wildlife Park. You'll get the chance to visit Santa in his grotto, meet his trusted reindeer, go on a festive park trail, taste some Christmas treats and enjoy festive crafts.

Oxford Castle and Prison

Visit the Oxford Castle and Prison to learn all about the famous place and meet Santa. You can tell him all about the castle and prison's history and show him the beautiful crafts you made along the way.

Ticket prices: From £16*

Nearby campsite: Chipping Norton Club Site

More places to see Santa in the South East:

• Santa’s Grotto at Polhill | Kent  | 1st December – 24th December 2023 | From £2
• Christmas At Hever Castle | Kent  | 18th November 2023 – 1st January 2024 | From £28
• The Enchanted Grotto | Kent  | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £6
• Father Christmas Visits Godstone Farm | Surrey  | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | £16.95
• The Father Christmas Experience at Priory Farm | Surrey  | 18th November – 24th December 2023 | From £20
• Reindeer Centre Christmas Grotto | Kent  | 18th November – 24th December 2023 | From £7.50
• Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway Santa Special | Kent  | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £15
• Santas Grotto at Webbs Garden Centre | Oxfordshire  | 11th November – 24th December 2023 | From £26.50
• Hogshaw Farm and Wildlife Park | Buckinghamshire | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £6.72
• Spa Valley Railway, The Polar Express | 17th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £35.95

Santa’s Grottos in the South West

Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves, Devon

Embark on a quest through the caves to find the true meaning of Christmas and find Santa. This interactive experience involves finding the magical key that unlocks Santa's workshop, meeting Santa Claus himself and enjoying festive presents and treats along the way.

Dates: 2nd --24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £14*

Nearby campsite: California Cross Club Site

Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park, Bristol

Enjoy a theatrical show, themed activities, and entertainment at Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park. Visitors get to watch a Santa show, explore his toy factory, visit Mrs Claus at her gingerbread parlour, explore the magical forest, meet Santa and do so much more. For those feeling a bit brave, pop into the Grinch's house and see what he's up to this Christmas.

Dates: 2nd -- 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £12.50*

Nearby campsite: Cheddar Mendip Heights Club Site

Crealy Theme Park, Exeter

It's definitely the most wonderful time of the year at Crealy Theme Park as they welcome Father Christmas at his grotto, put on a spectacular festive ice show and have the most magical lights displayed around the park.

Dates: 2nd -- 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £18*

Nearby campsite: Charmouth Club Site

Eden Project, Cornwall

Father Christmas and his elves are visiting the Eden Project this year to spread festive cheer. Join in with all the fun as Santa shares his scientific discoveries, and all children get a gift they can grow for years to come.

Dates: 1st -- 24th December 2023*

Nearby campsite: Veryan Club Site

More places to see Santa in the South West:

• Magical Winter Wonderland Grotto | Devon  | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £10.99
• The Polar Express Train Ride | Devon  | 24th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £38.95
• Sail with Santa | Devon  | 2nd – 22nd December 2023 | From £5
• Shipwreck Treasure Museum | Cornwall  | 15th – 24th December 2023 | From £4.50
• Bodmin Railway Santa Specials | Cornwall  | 2nd – 24th December 2023 | From £7.50

Santa’s Grottos in Northern Ireland

Santa’s Cottage

Pop over to Ireland's official residence of Santa to have a tree-mendous time. You’ll enter a traditional Irish cottage, festively decorated, that dates back to the 19th Century. You can also walk around Santa’s garden, where he grows fresh produce that keeps him full during the year. If you’re extra nice, the elves may even give you a sneak peek of Santa’s bedroom, where he gets his rest before the big night. No visit to Santa’s cottage is complete without meeting the main man himself. Each family gets to spend time with Santa and tell him about their year and what presents they want for Christmas.

Nearby campsite: Delamont Country Park Club Site

Railway Preservation Society of Ireland

Hop aboard the Santa steam train at Whitehead Excursion Station, where you can help Mrs Claus find Santa. With many activities to do on your journey, lights to see and elves to find, you’ll make plenty of merry memories. Once you’ve found Santa, you can share everything on your wish list and receive an early Christmas present for your journey home.

Castle Coole

From riding with Mrs Claus on the Polar Express to visiting Santa in his grotto, you'll have a snow-sational Christmas experience at Castle Coole. There are games to be played, stories to be told, presents to be shared, and complimentary snacks to be enjoyed.

Dates: 24th November – 10th December 2023*

Titanic Belfast

A Magical Christmas Experience is back at Titanic Belfast. Make your way through the enchanted forest before visiting Mrs Claus and listening to her Christmas tales. You can then post your letter at the post office, see Santa’s elves at their workshop and last, but most definitely not least, visit Santa's grotto.

More places to see Santa in Northern Ireland:

• Winter Wonderland at Todds Leap | 1st – 22nd December 2023 | From £22.50
• Mountpanther Christmas Experience | 2nd – 23rd December 2023 | From £14.99
• Santa’s Grotto at Hillmount Garden Centre | 22nd November – 24th December 2023 | From £4
• The Jungle Christmas Wonderland | 1st – 23rd December 2023 | From £10
• Streamvale Magical Christmas Experience | 25th November – 24th December 2023 | From £5
• Santa's Polar Express at Slieve Donard | 9th – 21st December 2023 | From £27.50
• A Christmas Experience at Glenarm Castle | 30th November – 20th December 2023 | From £7.50

Santa’s Grottos in Scotland

Edinburgh zoo.

Head over to Edinburgh Zoo this Christmas for a brrr-illiant time with all the wonderful animals and the Clauses. Take part in wreath-making and ice skating, and when you’re all worn out, stroll around the Christmas markets in search of toasted marshmallows and hot chocolate. Book your time slots for Santa’s grotto here or wait until the evening when the Clauses walk through the Winter Village to meet as many good children as possible.

Dates: 1st December – 24th December 2023*

Nearby campsite: Lauder Club Site

Beirhope Alpacas

Christmas at Beirhope means getting the opportunity to meet and feed alpacas, goats and sheep, as well as having a chat with Santa Claus and posting your letter to the North Pole. You’ll also get to make some Christmas Eve treats for Rudolph and his friends and enjoy some tasty festive treats for yourself.

Dates: 9th – 24th December 2023*

Nearby campsite: Jedburgh Club Site

Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway

Reserve your seat on the Santa Steam Train that takes you on a journey to the North Pole (also known as Birkhill). The festively decorated train is a great family fun adventure where you’ll get to meet Santa and his elves, and they’ll be handing out presents to all those who have been good this year. You’ll also find live entertainment, including carol singers and magicians onboard and complimentary festive refreshments.

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

Santa Claus is coming (back) to town. You can meet the jolly fellow at Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park Christmas Spectacular, where Santa and his team of handy elves will be roaming the safari park, making a list of all those who have been naughty and nice. This festive family fun day out also means meeting all the beautiful animals roaming the park and stepping back in time for the illuminated dinosaur display.

Nearby campsite: Milarrochy Bay Club Site

Woodland Experiences

Discover Santa’s woodland cabin and meet his friendly neighbours at Santa’s Woodland Experience. You’ll be invited in for a chat with Santa, and once you’re done telling him about all the things on your Christmas list, you can ride the tractor back to the shed, where you’ll be able to enjoy a hot chocolate and fill up on Christmas snacks.

Dates: 25th November – 20th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £11*

More places to see Santa in Scotland:

• Beecraigs Country Park Festive Forest | 1st – 23rd December 2023 | From £11
• Five Sisters Zoo Illuminations 2023 | 17th November – 23rd December 2023 | From £15
• Traquair Christmas | 25th and 26th November 2023 | From TBA
• The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd | 2nd – 24th December 2023 | From £5

Santa’s Grottos in Wales

Folly Farm, Pembrokeshire

At Folly Farm, not only can you get to chat with Santa Claus and tell him all about your year, but you can also stop off at the zoo and see Rudolf. Adults can enjoy wandering around the zoo while sipping mulled wine and tucking into a mince pie.

Dates: 11th November – 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £14.95*

Nearby campsite: St Davids Club Site

Fonmon Castle, South Wales

Spend a wholesome day out with your loved ones at Fonmon Castle. Not only will you get to meet Santa and his cheeky elves, but you’ll also get to enjoy a tea party with them, receive an early Christmas gift and marvel at the magical Christmas lights. There’s also a live Santa Show, which you can see from the castle's balcony.

Dates: 23rd November – 23rd December*

Nearby campsite: Rhandirmwyn Club Site

Chirk Castle, North Wales

Enter a Winter Wonderland at Chirk Castle. This is no ordinary Christmas experience. At Chirk Castle, you can explore the festively decorated grounds, walk through the stunning gardens, keep warm with a hot chocolate and, most importantly, visit Santa at his reverse grotto. End your day by putting your feet up in the cosy tea room.

Dates: 6th November – 31st December 2023 (will be closed on bank holidays)*

Gower Fresh Christmas Trees, Swansea

Get into the festive spirit at Swansea Winter Wonderland at Gower Fresh Christmas Trees. Here, you’ll be able to meet Santa, choose your favourite Christmas tree, enter the snowy kingdom and take a ride on Santa’s sleigh. If you’re really good, you may even get a special Christmas present.

Brecon Mountain Railway, Brecon

Labelled as one of the best Polar Express experiences in Wales, Brecon Mountain Railway takes you on a divine steam train ride from Pant station to Pontistcill, where you’ll meet Santa at his grotto. On your journey, enjoy festive goodies and hot drinks, as well as listen to Christmas tales and sing carols.

Dates: 25th November – 21st December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £19.75*

The National Showcaves Centre

Discover Wales’ only natural Christmas grottos at the National Showcaves Centre. Marvel at the stunning Christmas decor, lights and trees that Santa’s elves worked hard to put up. After chatting with Santa Claus, pick up an early Christmas present and head to the train that’ll take you to see the farm animals and children's play area.

More places to see Santa in Wales:

• Santa's Toy Mine, Rhondda Heritage Park | 24th November – 24th December 2023 | From £4
• The Forage Christmas Experience | 1st – 23rd December 2023 | From £3

*Prices and dates may vary. Please check the availability online and book your tickets in advance to secure your place.

Christmas Light Trails

Find out more.

Winter Camping Tips

Christmas markets, camping gift ideas, festive camping.

See which of our campsites have extended opening for the festive season.

Top Camping Gadgets

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 7 Best Christmas Day Trips from London

Today I want to share about the best Christmas day trips from London. From cities and towns with famous Christmas markets to medieval castles with Christmas-themed events and activities, there are a lot of great winter day trips from London you can take during the festive season. Whether you love snowy chalets selling handmade gifts or an outdoor winter wonderland, there’s something for you.

Best Christmas Day Trips from London

The best Christmas day trips from London range from urban centers to towns and places in the countryside. Some are home to famous British Christmas markets , while others are known for British Christmas food or festive seasonal events.

Whatever your interests, these winter day trips from London are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.

1. York Christmas Day Trip

York tops my list of the best Christmas day trips from London. This city in the north of England is famous for its markets, of which there are many dotted throughout the center.

I once took a York day trip to discover the top York Christmas markets , and I was impressed by the size and variety of the city’s offerings.

Beyond markets, York’s shops and restaurants are full of Christmas cheer. From decorations on facades to special foods and drinks like mince pies and mulled wine, there’s a lot to get excited about here.

The city is also home to Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland, an annual winter experience featuring the north of England’s largest outdoor ice skating rink, a vintage funfair, a Santa’s Grotto, and an alpine cafe. It’s a great place to get into the Yuletide spirit.

2. Bath Christmas Day Trip

Bath is next on my list of the best Christmas day trips from London. The city is stunning at any time of year, but it really comes alive with markets and magic during the festive season. A Bath day trip is a great way to take it all in.

Bath has a lot of unique events and markets on offer during the season.

There’s an independent Bath artisan market in Queen Square, traditional Christmas celebrations around the Abbey Quarter, and an illumination trail of the city’s iconic heritage buildings.

There are also festive market stalls in Kingston Parade and Abbey Green, a Victorian carousel outside the Roman Baths, and lots of street performances and carol singing. Most years there’s a big Christmas market in the city center, too.

Additionally, many of the best independent shops in Bath go all-out for Christmas. From outdoor lights adorning the streets to twinkling ones inside the stores, the decorations are top-notch.

The seasonal goods on offer in the shops make perfect Christmas gifts for family, friends, colleagues, and other important people in your life, too.

3. Birmingham Christmas Day Trip

Next on my list of the best Christmas day trips from London is Birmingham . One of the best cities in England , this Midlands powerhouse is packed with Christmas markets and other festive fun throughout the Yuletide season.

I once took a day trip to visit the Birmingham Christmas markets and I loved everything from the gift-laden chalets to the sizzling sausages and other seasonal fare on offer.

From the lights on New Street to the carols in Victoria Square, there’s always a lot going on.

For ice skaters, the Ice Skate Birmingham rink in Centenary Square is a great place to glide through the winter air. The views of it from the contemporary Library of Birmingham are great, too.

4. Canterbury Christmas Day Trip

Canterbury is another of the best Christmas day trips from London. This city in Kent is known for being home to Canterbury Cathedral, which is one of the most important churches in the UK.

It puts on everything from the Cathedral Carol Service to the Christmas Eve Choral Evensong with Carols and the Christmas Day Sung Eucharist with the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Outside the cathedral, a day trip to Canterbury is a great way to take in the the city’s Christmas festivities.

The Canterbury Christmas market in Whitefriars Shopping Centre and St George’s St features festive chalets rife with gifts and seasonal food and drinks. There’s also a Visit Santa experience for children and a Santa Paws experience for dogs.

Add to that live music every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoon during the season, and there’s a lot to love about a Christmas day trip from London to Canterbury.

5. Windsor Castle Christmas Day Trip

Windsor Castle is next on my list of the best Christmas day trips from London. One of the most famous castles near London , it’s not only a great place to get into all things royal, but also a fun place to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit.

That’s because Windsor Castle has beautiful Christmas decorations. From the special exhibitions to the festive garlands and twinkling lights throughout the halls, it’s magnificent to see.

The piece de resistance is the huge Christmas tree in St George’s Hall. It’s decorated with beautiful ornaments and lights.

There are other Christmas trees dotted throughout the State Rooms, including the Semi-State Rooms, which are only open to visitors in the winter.

There are also special events on at Windsor Castle during the Christmas season.

From themed activities around the castle to arts and crafts workshops and festive storytelling in the State Apartments, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on a Christmas day trip to Windsor Castle .

6. Exeter Christmas Day Trip

Exeter is another of the best Christmas day trips from London. Down in Devon, this cathedral city in the UK comes alive with seasonal festivities in the winter.

One of the best is the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market on Cathedral Green. It features a labyrinth of winding lanes lined with chalets packed with handmade gifts, Christmas foods and drinks, and seasonal decorations. There’s live entertainment, too.

Exeter Cathedral itself does a lot as well. It hosts carol services, concerts, events, and tours throughout the run-up to Christmas.

Elsewhere in the city, there are twinkling lights, festive decorations, and Christmas trees in Princesshay and Roman Walk. Shops and restaurants are decked out in seasonal decor, and there are pop-up markets and bars throughout the city center.

7. Hever Castle Christmas Day Trip

Last on my list of the best Christmas day trips from London is Hever Castle . This moated beauty in Kent dives deep into the Christmas spirit each year, offering visitors a range of festive activities to choose from.

Hever Castle has a themed Christmas Trail visitors can follow, a festive fairground with rides, Christmas gifts and food in the shops and restaurants, a Santa’s Grotto, and a magical Christmas Light Trail experience around the gardens and lake.

Inside the castle, there are traditionally decorated rooms, warm log fires, and bright Christmas trees galore. They bring the interiors alive with festive atmosphere and eye-catching surprises.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of Christmas day trips from London and that it’s inspired you to get out and discover some of the best places to visit in the UK in winter . I’m sure they’ll help you get into the seasonal spirit as much as they’ve helped me.

If you want to travel further afield, the Scotland has a lot of great options as well. There are plenty of fun things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas , and cities like Glasgow and Inverness have markets and more. Happy travels!

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