100+ Places to Visit Santa in the UK for Christmas 2023
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100+ Places to Visit Santa for Christmas 2023

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

Santa's grotto

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*

Nearby campsite: Sheriff Hutton Club Site

More places to see Santa in the North East and Yorkshire and the Humber:

Santa’s Grottos in the North West

Santas grotto 

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.

Dates: 25th November – 24th December 2023*

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*

Nearby campsite: Delamere Forest Club Site

More places to see Santa in the North West:

Santa’s Grottos in the West Midlands

Santas grotto 

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.

Dates: 25th November – 24th December 2023*

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!

Dates: 18th November – 23rd December 2023*

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*

Nearby campsite: Clent Hills Club Site

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 Grottos in the East Midlands

Polar Express Train 

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*

Ticket prices: From £30*

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.

Dates: 25th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £6*

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.

Dates: 25th November – 24th December 2023*

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.

Dates: 2nd – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £16.50*

Nearby campsite: Leek Club Site

More places to see Santa in the East Midlands:

Santa’s Grottos in East Anglia

Santas grotto

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.

Dates: 25th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £10*

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.

Dates: 25th November – 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £24.50*

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.

Dates: 25th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £15.95*

Nearby campsite: Norwich Club Site

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.

Dates: 24th November – 24th December 2023*

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.

Dates: 25th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £4*

Nearby campsite: St Neots Club Site

More places to see Santa in East Anglia:

Santa’s Grottos in London

Santas grotto 

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*

Ticket prices: From £5*

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*

Ticket prices: From £30*

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.

Dates: 2nd – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £24*

Nearby campsite: Walton on Thames Club Site

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*

Nearby campsite: Chertsey Club Site

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.

Dates: 25th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £5*

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.

Dates: 2nd – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £23*

Nearby campsite: Hertford Club Site

More places to see Santa in London:

Santa’s Grottos in the South East

Santas grotto 

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.

Dates: 24th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £10*

Nearby campsite: Chertsey Club Site

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.

Dates: 25th November – 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £16*

Nearby campsite: Chipping Norton Club Site

More places to see Santa in the South East:

Santa’s Grottos in the South West

Santas grotto 

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*

Ticket prices: From £12*

Nearby campsite: Veryan Club Site

More places to see Santa in the South West:

Santa’s Grottos in Northern Ireland

Santas grotto 

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.

Dates: 18th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £16*

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.

Dates: 25th November – 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £15*

Nearby campsite: Delamont Country Park Club Site

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*

Ticket prices: From £15*

Nearby campsite: Delamont Country Park Club Site

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.

Dates: 24th November – 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £12.50*

Nearby campsite: Delamont Country Park Club Site

More places to see Santa in Northern Ireland:

Santa’s Grottos in Scotland

Santas grotto

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*

Ticket prices: From £18*

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*

Ticket prices: From £5*

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.

Dates: 2nd – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £20*

Nearby campsite: Lauder Club Site

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.

Dates: 24th November – 23rd December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £7*

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*

Nearby campsite: Milarrochy Bay Club Site

More places to see Santa in Scotland:

Santa’s Grottos in Wales

Santas grotto 

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*

Ticket prices: From £10*

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)*

Ticket prices: From £7.50*

Nearby campsite: Delamere Forest Club Site

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.

Dates: 25th November – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £9.95*

Nearby campsite: Rhandirmwyn Club Site

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*

Nearby campsite: Rhandirmwyn Club Site

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.

Dates: 2nd – 24th December 2023*

Ticket prices: From £10*

Nearby campsite: Rhandirmwyn Club Site

More places to see Santa in Wales:

*Prices and dates may vary. Please check the availability online and book your tickets in advance to secure your place.

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