woburn safari park santa grotto

Narnia Christmas Grotto at Woburn Safari Park

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Where: Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire When:  Every weekend from 19 th November with special dates over Christmas.

Step through the wardrobe into Narnia and meet Mr Tumnus the fawn, Aslan and the Snow Queen, along with very special guest – Santa Claus!

Just as Lucy, Peter and Susan received their magical Christmas gifts in C.S. Lewis’ classic novel, children can meet Santa Claus in the Narnia themed- grotto and ask for their heart’s desire. Each child receives:

– A special gift from Santa Claus – A gift voucher to spend in Woburn’s Junglies Gift Shop – £5 admission voucher for the Safari Park.

Santa will be in his Grotto from 12 noon until 4pm.

Terms & Conditions: Tickets cost £5.95 per child and don’t include the cost of admission to the Safari Park.

Special Christmas holiday opening dates include 23rd December – your last chance to meet Santa – and daily between the 27th December and 3rd January.

http://www.woburn.co.uk/events/article/the-lion-the-witch-and-woburn/

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44 things to do in woburn.

Woburn is a small picturesque Georgian village with a population of about 1500. Despite its size, there are a lot of things to do in Woburn and the neighbouring Woburn Sands. We moved to the area about 2 years ago and have been slowly exploring all that the town has to offer. Super restaurants, unique animal encounters, lovely walks and cool attractions. 

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Table of Contents

Where is woburn.

The Woburn this article is about is located in Bedfordshire, England. (There is also a city with this name in Massachusetts, USA). Woburn is an ideal location to visit from the nearby Milton Keynes and Luton, but it also makes a great day trip from London. People often refer to Woburn and Woburn Sands as the same place. They are in fact very close to each other. Only 2 miles separate them. So this article will include places in both places. My map below will help you see where each attraction is located exactly. 

Things to do in Woburn with kids

1 Soar through the sky at Go Ape Woburn They have a cool Treetop Adventure with some tricky obstacles and fun zip lines. You might even spot some animals in the Safari Park, which is nearby. This adventure is not for anyone with vertigo, as the platform is 8 m up in the trees at some places. The minimum age is 10 years old.

2. Visit Aspley Guise Recreation Ground playground

The playground had a revamp in April 2022, so it looks all modern now. The gated play area has a sew saw, roundabout, nest swing, climbing frame, zip wire, regular swings and slides. Lots to keep big and small children entertained. There is also a cricket and football field nearby.

3. Swim at the Woburn Lido

The Woburn swimming pool has cold water swimming sessions available most of the year. It is an outdoor pool, so it can be very chilly in the winter months. But in the summer season, the water temperature is heated to a pleasant 26°C. The pool is 23 metres long and 9 metres wide. The shallow end is 1m deep and a deeper end of 1.65m

Animal Encounters in Woburn

4. Make new friends at the Animal Edge Woburn

A lovely private animal farm right next to Center Parcs Woburn Forest. Visitors can get close to the animals, who are treated as part of the family by the owners. You can pet the pigs, ponies, goats, chicken, rabbis and guinea pigs. You can also book into a Birthday Party Package. The farm has small picnic area, cafe and shop, where they sell their free-range eggs and seasonal vegetables.

5.Observe the deers at Deer Park Woburn

In the grounds of Woburn Abbey you will find a deer park. The animals roar free in the gardens. It’s a great place to observe them, but keep your distance. This is not a petting zoo. 

6. Imagine you are at the African Savannah as your drive through  Woburn Safari Park

This is a drive-through safari park, where you will be able to see lions, elephants, giraffes, tigers, bears, monkeys and many more. There is also a walk through section with smaller mammals like lemurs, red pandas, birds and otters. Check the timetable before your visit so you don’t miss the keeper talks and animal demonstrations.  Woburn Safari also has a big indoor and outdoor play area, a railway and pedal boats on a lake. 

7. Pet some pigs at the  Petpiggies Pig encounters

A really unique experience to get close to these cute piggies in the heart of Woburn Forest. The pig encounters are fun and educational. You will have to book in advance. Each session lasts about 90 minutes.

Romantic things to do in Woburn

8. Get spoiled at Aqua Sana Woburn

Spend a relaxing day or evening in this Woburn spa. It has 25 innovative experiences, like hydrotherapy showers, herbal inhalation baths, thermal experiences, saunas, salt therapy, water beds, Japanese Zen Garden and outdoor pool just to name a few. They also offer spa and beauty treatments, like full-body massages and manicures. You will need to book tickets ahead of time.

Sport and Fitness in Woburn

9. Play at championship courses at the Woburn Golf Club

It has three championship courses. The club was the first 54 Hole venue to have all three courses ranked in Golf Monthly Magazines TOP 100 Courses in the UK and Ireland. The stylish clubhouse offers excellent hospitality to all guests. A must visit place for all golf lovers.

10. Go Mountain biking at Woburn Bike Trails

Woburn Trails is a great place for mountain bikers. There are trails for cyclists with different abilities. The more advanced have drops and gap jumps. There is also a separate jump area. You will need a Woburn bike trails permit . which you can purchase from the Greensand Trust. The nearby Rushmere Country Park also has bike trails.

11. Learn skateboarding at Woburn Sands Skatepark

This is a small skatepark with metal ramps. It has a quarter-pipe ramp, bank and a funbox. The park is free and always open. Unfortunately, it isn’t very well-kept, but a good place for beginners to try out skateboarding. There is also a playground next to it.

12. Learn gymnastics at the Woburn Sands Gymnastics Center

A fantastic family run gymnastics school. The staff is lovely and well-trained. New members are offered a trial session. 

13. Go horse riding to Aspley Wood

The woodland has several permissive routes. Just make sure you buy a Greensand Horse Riding Pass. 

Unusual things to do in Woburn

14. Get creative at Social Pottery MK

You can choose from over 300 pottery (plates, mugs, vases, decorative items, etc) to paint to your liking. It can be a very fun and therapeutic session. You can do it on your own, with your family or friends. The final results often make a great present and keep-sake. They also organise kids parties.

Walks in Woburn

15. Explore Woburn Woods/Aspley Wood

Aspley Woods is approximately 326ha of mainly conifer plantation. In season there is also a lovely section with bluebells. A great place to explore and you will need several visits to see it all. 

16. Walk the grounds of  Woburn Abbey and Gardens

The home of the 15th Duke and Duchess of Bedford is currently undergoing a major refurbishment. The Abbey is planned to reopen in 2024. In the meantime, the huge parkland surrounding the estate is free to visit. It is a great place for a walk with several ponds, woodlands and deers.

Art and Culture

17. Learn about history at Woburn Heritage Museum

The museum is nestled at the church of Old St Mary’s in the village churchyard. A good place to visit if you want to learn more about the history of Woburn. It is free and wheelchair accessible. They also have a secondhand bookshop on the premises.

18. Buy some beautiful art at Woburn Art Gallery

The gallery is run by a group of volunteer artists. They have a lovely selection of original artwork by locals, that are available to purchase.

19. Borrow books at the Woburn Sands Library

They have a wide range of books. The library also organises different activities and events on a regular basis both for children and adults.

Shops in Woburn

20. Buy some unique homeware at Zoohause Woburn

They have a great selection of quality homeware and furniture. Some pieces are really unique. The staff is friendly and helpful. 

21. Get your camping essential from Tony wild camping shop

A lovely family-run business with a huge showroom. You will find several tents on display. The prices are very reasonable and the staff is helpful and knowledgeable. A great place to buy your camping equipment or car camping gear . They sell expedition food , camping fridges , chairs, tables, cookware, etc.

22. Browse the motorbikes at Pure Triumph Woburn

A heaven for motorbike enthusiasts. This shop sells a wide range of new and used bikes and official clothing. They also regularly organise motorcycle workshops. The staff is very kind and happy to help with any questions. They also serve coffee and food in their cafe.

23. Buy some lovely decor at Woburn China & Gift Shop

They sell a wide range of products at reasonable prices. Cutlery, kitchen items, gifts and tableware are among the many things that they stock. You can shop in person or place an order online. 

24. Browse for some unique, quality antiques and art at the Antiques Association 

A lovely antique shop in Woburn, but the prices can be quite high. Don’t forget to bargain!

25. Get some lovely flowers at Woburn Forest Growers

A beautiful horticultural nursery. All their plants and shrubs are grown on-site with the most economical watering system. The staff is very knowledgable and will give you care tips and suggestions about what to plant.

Restaurants in Woburn

Pubs in woburn.

26. Try some British classics at The Flying Fox Woburn

A lovely country pub between Leighton Buzzard and Woburn. In the summer it is lovely to eat in their gardens and in the colder months, you can enjoy the sound and warmth of their crackling log fire inside. They serve pub classics, and seasonal dishes and have a fully stocked bar.

27. Go for a Sunday Roast at The Swan Woburn Sands

A classic British pub with outdoor and indoor seating options. Nicely sized portions and cosy atmosphere.

28. Enjoy a meal with the family and your dog at Black Horse in Woburn

A dog-friendly gastropub with indoor and outdoor seating. Wide range of food, including vegetarian dishes.

29. Enjoy the beer garden at the Weathercock Woburn Sands

This family and dog-friendly pub have been recently refurbished. It has a fantastic indoor and outdoor seating options.

30. Try some seasonal dishes at The Birch at Woburn

A family-owned pub with fantastic service, nice portions of food and reasonable prices.

31. Enjoy some live music at the Royal Oak Woburn

A traditional 17th-century old English pub. Keep your eyes on their social media pages, as they often have special events, like musicians and pop up street food trucks visiting.

32. Soak in the sun in the garden of the Red Lion

Dog-friendly gastropub. In addition to seating options inside and outside, they also offer a takeaway menu.

Italian restaurants in Woburn

33. Eat some authentic Italian meals at Fratelli Woburn

An award-winning, family-owned restaurant serving fresh, authentic Italian dishes. It’s located in a stunning historic building, which adds to the unique atmosphere of the restaurant.

34. Go for brunch at Nonna’s Woburn Sand

An independent family-friendly Mediterranee restaurant in Woburn Sands serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. A great place to eat at special occasions. Everything is perfect from the service to the food and decor. They also have a takeaway menu.

Afternoon tea in Woburn

35. Celebrate a special occasion at Woburn Coffee House

A beautiful cafe with plenty of outdoor seating as well. Their afternoon tea is outstanding! You can choose from several different options (traditional, vegan, festive, etc)

36. Enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea at The Woburn

It’s an upscale hotel with its own restaurant, where they also serve afternoon tea. Book ahead of time and enjoy this special experience.

High-end Restaurants

37. Get spoiled with a Michelin Recommended Fine Dining experience at the Paris House Woburn

A really unique, high-end dining experience in a Victorian Tudor-style house inside the stunning deer park of the Woburn Estate. A great place to celebrate a special occasion. All their dishes use the best seasonal produce available. The meals are beautifully presented and interesting.

38. Eat some seafood at Loch Fyne Restaurant and Bar

A high-end restaurant primarily serving seafood, although you can also find some meat and vegetarian dishes as well on the menu. Top-quality British fish & seafood sourced sustainably.

39. Go for a meaty feast at Ottoman Kitchen Woburn Sands

A restaurant serving meze and grill. All their meat is traceable and has been produced responsibly.

Best events in Woburn

40. Meet new people and shop at Woburn Farmers Market

Woburn Market has been trading since Woburn became a Market Town in 1242! It’s been very popular ever since. It is held on the third Sunday of the month in the village centre on ‘the Pitchings’.

41. Meet Father Christmas at Santa’s Grotto Experience – Frosts Garden Centres November, December

Every Christmas season Frosts Garden Centre offers a Santa meet and greet experience. It is a very popular event, many describe it as the best one in the area, so booking ahead of time is essential.  

42. Visit some new places during the Woburn Village Open Gardens Weekend June

An annual event when a  range of gardens are open to the public over the weekend.  

43. Dance at the Woburn Sands Festival August

An exciting 2-day event with live music, food trucks and market stalls.

44. Go ice skating a the Woburn Emporium Ice Skating Rink November-January

The Woburn Sands Emporium garden centre has a pop-up ice rink in the winter. Great fun for the whole family.

Hotels in Woburn

Best for families: Center Parcs Woburn Forest

Perhaps the most popular place to stay among families is the Centre Parcs Hotel Woburn. This branch has an amazing Subtropical Swimming Paradise with pools, slides, water play area and spa treatments.

Best for couples: Woodleys Farmhouse

A cute bed and breakfast situated in a brick farmhouse just a short walk from Woburn Woods. Ideal place for couples.

Best for foodies: The Bell Hotel

The hotel has a fabulous restaurant and bar on site.

Parking in Woburn

Woburn car park: Big, free car park. Handy for High Street shops and also for many walks including the deer park and Woburn Abbey.

Layby on George Street: Max 2 hours free parking for about 7 cars. Good location for some restaurants and for a walk to see the deer park.

Sandy Lane Car Park: Free car park. Convenient location for Woburn Woods.

Longslade Lane Car Park: Free car park for Woburn Woods. The road is quite bumpy to get here.

Car Park On Woburn Road: Free car park for the woodland.

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Woburn Safari Park

Open today from 0930 until 0300

There are two parts to the park; the drive through safari and the walkabout enclosures on foot. The drive through safari is just great; animals roam freely in the fairly spacious enclosures, at times up close and personal with the cars, overlooked carefully by the rangers in jeeps. Rhinos, elephants, bison, deer, lions, monkeys, bears and many more wander around, clearly visible in their environments, from your car on the winding tracks. You are free to take your time as long as the car in kept moving, our son (and us) throughly enjoyed it. Afterwards we wandered around the smaller enclosures on foot which were interesting and varied, displaying a range of smaller animals. On a cold Winter's day in December we easily killed four hours...during the summer we could see how a whole day could effortlessly be spent in the park complete with picnic. Our one other piece of advice would be to avoid the restaurant - horribly overpriced and appalling food quality, and we are not particularly fussy! Go prepared with a pack up and thermos. Overall good value for money. Order tickets online beforehand and you can save £1 per person on the ticket price, annual tickets are available too.

Seasonal opening hours, not open every week day in winter,  please check site to check open on your day of travel here.

Recommended by Cos Benham-Smith with children ages 1.5 - Thu Dec 29 2016

Activity Type

• Open farms, safari parks and zoos
• Parks, walks and outdoor fun
• Restaurants and food
• Outdoor activities

Family discounts available

COVID-19 Safety Measures

• Hand washing facilities available
• Hand gel available
• Limited tickets and restricted public admission to facilities
• Social distancing measures in place

This winter, Woburn Safari Park will be operating the Road Safari only, meaning visitors can still see all their favourite animals from the comfort and warmth of their car.

• Double pram friendly
• Suitable for twins/multiples
• Pram/Wheelchair accessible
• Has a childrens menu
• Baby changing available

Opening Hours

• Monday Closed
• Tuesday Closed
• Wednesday Closed
• Thursday 0930 - 0300
• Friday 0930 - 0300
• Saturday 0930 - 0300
• Sunday 0930 - 0300

There are 8 reviews for "Woburn Safari Park"

Recommended by Natalie Espinal on Wed Jun 19 2024

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Recommended by Suzanne Pettigrew with children ages 6 and 2 on Sun Jul 05 2020

Covid update: We were given a bottle of hand sanitiser for the car at the entry kiosk. Toilets are manned by staff to ensure social distancing takes place. Take away food, drinks, ice creams were available. Quite a lot of the foot Safari areas are closed, no soft play or train but they are still doing feeding and animal demonstrations. Lots of outdoor picnic areas. Still a good day out!

Recommended by Natalie Costa on Sun Jun 28 2020

Absolutely loved the safari drive through! Loads to see and very family friendly indeed! Highly recommend! It was just my husband and I that went but we’ll be taking our niece and nephew next time as it’s a brilliant outing for children! Planning on going back again very soon

Recommended by Erin with children ages 6 and 4 and 10 on Thu Jun 18 2020

POST COVID VISIT We managed to get amazing views of all the animals 🙌🏻 £50 a car of 5 people you can go round as many times as you like toilet is open and car park area. Although expect a queue. People had bought picnics and had parked up to eat in car park area. Bit confusing at start as different entrance which I didn’t realise 🤦‍♂️ (Read directions) Follow postcode MK18 9QN

Recommended by Andi Russell on Tue Jun 16 2020

With recent government updates that some zoos and safari parks are now reopening after lockdown, we were excited to book tickets for the Woburn safari drive through online. However logging on we saw that the queue was unsurprisingly in the hundreds, as other parents keen to tap into activities for their kids, did the same! I did get through to the booking tickets stage fairly quickly to be fair, but as there is currently very little availability and you can’t book very far ahead, in the end I gave up. I may try again another time as it’s a lovely “day” out for adults and kids, though a bit on the expensive side. Also be aware that right now, it’s a one car through the safari drive through only experience.

Recommended by Sue with children ages 3 and 1 on Sat Jul 01 2017

Wonderful place, we have never been so close to animals and my son was amazed when we had to wait for a Rhino to cross the road in front of us. There were literally Giraffes being ushered away from the roads by staff, it was incredible. Each time we go we manage to see the lions and tigers and the wonderful brown bear. My son also LOVES the soft play and the train that does a circuit of the whole park. There is too much to write in one small review, as the penguins, giant tortoises and sealions are also mesmerising! My suggestion is to take your own food as the selection for kids is not huge although one cafe is more focussed on the kids packed lunches. Great areas to sit and picnic if you want too. Amazing place and good for rain or shine as the safari is of course seen from your car! and the softplay is also inside the huge Arc.

Recommended by Suzanne Pettigrew with children age 3 on Mon May 29 2017

Loads to do here! My daughter loved the drive through monkey enclosure. Safari drive can be quite long at busy periods do take snacks/ something to occupy. After the drive there are lots of animal demonstrations, small train, boating lake, soft play, cafes etc. Can easily make a whole day if this. It's quite expensive but you can use clubcard vouchers which makes it very reasonable.

Recommended by Melanie Banks with children ages 3 and 1 on Wed Mar 29 2017

Santa's Grotto is set up in the mammoth play ark for a couple of weeks over Christmas. It is absolutely delightful and very festive. For just £7.50 per child (babies go free), kids get to enjoy an hour in Santa's grotto, decorating cookies, making Christmas cards and listening to stories and meeting the big man himself. Each child receives a present from Santa and there is plenty of time for photos. Additionally there are refreshments for the kids and tea, coffee and mince pies for the parents, at no extra charge. A perfect morning.

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Santa’s Grotto at Frosts Woburn Sands

16 november - 24 december.

Santa’s Grotto at Frosts Garden Centre Woburn Sands returns for 2024 with a 45 minute festive experience.

The Santa’s Grotto experience runs weekends in November 16th/17th and 23rd/24th November 2024 and then every day from 25th November to 24th December 2024.

Let your imagination run wild in our Toy Factory, where children can choose a Christmas-themed cuddly toy to build, adding a personal touch to their festive keepsake.

Experience the joy of meeting Father Christmas himself! Share your Christmas wishes and capture the moment with a memorable photo*, he is excited to hear about all the good deeds and Christmas cheer you’ve spread this year.

Step into a winter wonderland and join in the fun of making special reindeer food to sprinkle on Christmas Eve. Learn the secrets of the Elf helpers and ensure Rudolph and his friends find their way to your home.

Finally take a piece of the magic home with you by working with your family to plant a mini-Christmas tree, in a beautiful bamboo plant pot. This activity is a wonderful way to create lasting family traditions and watch your tree grow year after year.

The 2024 Santa’s Grotto experience lasts around 45 minutes

Woburn Sands Santa Grotto SEN Sessions

To help make the Grotto experience as accessible as possible to any families who may require any additional support, Frosts Garden Centre Woburn Sands are offering exclusive SEN sessions.

These sessions will be the same unique Grotto experience you would expect from Frosts, with some small adaptations to welcome those with any additional needs. This includes smaller groups of people, reduced lighting and sound, and less display furniture making it easily accessible for all.

Woburn Sands & Willington sessions:

• 17 th  November – 9:30, 9:45 (Only available at Woburn Sands)
• 24 th  November – 9:30, 9:45
• 1 st  December – 9:30, 9:45

How much is Santa’s Grotto at Frosts Woburn Sands ?

Family tickets

• 1 Child & 1 Adult = £32
• 2 Children & 2 Adults = £58
• 3 Children & 2 Adults = £78
• 4 Children & 2 Adults = £98
• Additional Adults = £6
• Additional Child = £20
• Babies (under 12 months) = £8.99 (This price includes the make-a-bear experience)

Find all the Santa’s Grottos and places to meet Father Christmas in Buckinghamshire 2024

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• Santa's Grotto Experience

SANTA'S GROTTO EXPERIENCE

Our popular Santa's grotto experience is back for 2024

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Go on an exotic adventure at Woburn Safari Park

Woburn, bedfordshire.

Explore the habitats of lions, zebras, giraffes and much more at this family-friendly, conservation-focused safari park.

Featuring both a road safari and a foot safari, Woburn Safari Park is both a family-friendly attraction and a vital animal conservation resource. Most of the animals found within the park are classified as endangered species, making Woburn an essential part of their continued survival.

Get up close and personal with African lions and zebras from the safety of your own car in the road safari, before parking up and exploring penguin habitats and insect biomes. Kids will also enjoy the various leisure attractions on site, including indoor and outdoor play areas and a boating lake.

Woburn Safari Park is open all year round and discounts are available on family tickets. Both the road and foot safari sections are included in the cost of one ticket - be sure to book in advance!

The Road Safari will be reopening from 15 June - check the website below for ticket information and details.

• Find out more about Woburn Safari Park
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Santa grottos near Birmingham that are well worth visiting for Christmas 2023

There's so many festive options - all to suit various budgets

• 05:30, 4 NOV 2023
• Updated 14:32, 13 NOV 2023

There's something so magical about taking your children to see Father Christmas. Whether it's at a garden centre grotto, a farm or a large scale attraction, it's wonderful to watch their faces light up when they talk to the big man in red.

We have some fantastic festive events happening around Birmingham and the Midlands for 2023. You can see Santa Claus as part of a glittering light trail, aboard a steam train or in a yuletide show.

Here you'll find all the dates and ticket details as it's best to book in advance to avoid disappointment. The weekends and days leading to Christmas Eve often sell out fast.

Read more: Christmas 2023 events you'll want to book tickets for now around Birmingham

Poll: Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?

Peter Pan Light Trail at Webbs

You can visit Santa as part of the new Webbs Christmas light trail. This year families are invited to fly with Peter Pan and Tinkerbell to Neverland, looking out for mermaids, fairies, pirates and Captain Hook along the way!

Father Christmas will be there in his snow-covered workshop and house where you can take some festive photographs to remember the occasion. See him between November 17 and December 28 inclusive. You can also do the trail after this date as it continues until January 3, 2024. Find out more and book tickets via the Webbs website.

Santa Safari at West Midland Safari Park

West Midland Safari Park has a traditional grotto as part of its Santa Safari every year. You get to enjoy snow showers, reindeer, meet Santa and visit his toy factory to choose a gift to take home. Afterwards there's chance to visit the elves in Mrs Claus' Kitchen for hot chocolates and cookies for the kids and mulled wine and warm mince pies for the adults.

The park looks really pretty throughout the festive event, which also includes access to the four mile safari to see the animals. New for 2023 is Safari Skating on a Glice® rink, which is an eco-friendly alternative to ice, where you can 'glide, slide and go wild'. There are also Twilight Safari tickets where you can visit Santa after 5pm and go skating.

Santa is at the Safari Park from November 24 to December 24 but you can still enjoy all the festivities after he's gone, right through to January 7, 2024. Find out more and book via the West Midland Safari Park website here .

Listen to our Brummie Mummies 2023 Christmas Podcast here :

Neverland Fun House Santa Grotto

Neverland Fun House in Erdington has a Peter Pan theme and is known for its Greek cafe. Now, the soft play centre is opening in the evenings so that families can enjoy authentic home cooked Greek food whilst the kids play for free.

And the playhouse is hosting a Santa grotto this year plus there will be a special festive menu too. Find out more via the Neverland Funhouse website here or call 07975768533 to book a table or grotto visit.

Santa Grotto at Dobbies

Families can meet Santa in his grotto at Dobbies Garden Centre in Atherstone this Christmas. Children will be welcomed by Santa’s elves who will take them through a Christmas tree forest spotting magical characters along the way, before making a special item to take home.

Once they’ve spent time with the elves, Santa will greet the children, share some Christmas magic, hear their wishes, and hand them a gift to take home. There's also a Quiet Grotto for children with additional needs plus a Santa Paws experience for dog lovers.

Runs from November 23 to December 22. Find out more and book via the Dobbies website.

Enchanted Christmas Grotto at Drayton Manor

There's an Enchanted Christmas Grotto at Drayton Manor, which has an all new Christmas Wonderland for families for 2023. Take a ride on the Wishmas Express - an illuminated light trail train journey - and experience snowfalls every day.

Then join in with Rory's Christmas Party Show, visit Mrs. Claus' Kitchen and enjoy her Christmas Spectacular End of Day Show. The rides are open late to help you make the most of the Christmas evenings too.

The grotto is open on selected dates from November 25 to December 24 but the festivities continue after Santa has gone, right through to December 31. Find out more and book via the Drayton Manor website.

Enchanted Christmas Kingdom at Hatton World

Hatton will be transformed into a 'Winter Wonderland' this Christmas complete with a 3D glowing forest and an interactive North Pole postal station for sending letters to Father Christmas. Children can see the man himself in his cosy grotto.

There's also Mr. Holly's Magic show, gingerbread decorating with Mother Christmas, reindeer food making, Father Christmas’s secret toy shop and the return of the Create-a-Bear experience.

Hatton also has a light trail and drive-in cinema showing festive films. The shopping village will be packed with Christmas gift ideas too. The grotto is open on selected dates from November 25 to December 24. Some of the other activities continue until December 30. Find out more and book tickets via the Hatton World website.

Polar Express Birmingham

Everyone gets to meet Santa and receive a 'silver bell' aboard the Polar Express! The steam-fuelled adventure chugs out of Birmingham Moor Street Station on its way to the 'North Pole'. Guests are immersed in the sights, sounds and tastes of this classic children's tale with characters, hot chocolates and cookies bringing the 2004 film to life.

Runs on selected dates from November 25, 2023 to December 23, 2023, find out more and book via the Vintage Trains website. Read our review of the Polar Express Birmingham here .

Winter Funland at NEC Arena

You can see Santa in his grotto at Winter Funland - said to be the UK’s biggest indoor festive funfair, covering 25,000 square metres! Taking place at Birmingham NEC Arena on selected dates from December 9, 2023 to January 1, 2024, this 'Christmas wonderland' includes an ice rink, a festive circus and lots of Christmassy treats.

It's all indoors so you don't have to worry about the weather and all the rides, skating and grotto are included in your admission ticket. Find out more and book tickets via the Winter Funland website.

Santa Grotto at Webbs West Hagley

For a traditional grotto, head to Webbs West Hagley. Families can wander through a festive Christmas village to see Santa in his cosy cabin before choosing from a range of toys, including a craft box, board games and teddies, to take home.

Organisers promise winter scenes and surprises around every corner and even a chance of snow! Children can post their letters to Santa before mixing their own reindeer food to take home ready for Christmas Eve.

Runs each weekend from Saturday November 25 to Sunday December 24 plus every day from December 18 to 22. Find out more and book tickets via the Webbs website .

Father Christmas at Magic Alley

You can visit Father Christmas as part of a festive quest at Magic Alley in Stratford-upon-Avon. The Christmas in the Crystal Kingdom journey starts in the snow covered Enchanted Forest where you will solve puzzles, receive a present from Santa, enjoy activities with the elves and visit the Ice Queen.

This event is geared at slightly older children who are able to read and solve puzzles so there is also under fives and SEN sessions available too. Runs on selected dates from November 25 to December 20. Find out more and book via the Magic Alley website.

Santa story time and workshop at Chatsworth

Families can join Father Christmas for story time in his grotto at Chatsworth House this Christmas. There's also chance to experience the hustle and bustle of Santa's workshop with mischief-making elves and a giant exploding Christmas cracker!

It's part of the Palace of Advent event where the outside of the house will be transformed into a giant advent calendar with a light installation animating 24 Christmas scenes emerging from 24 windows on the south façade of the house. There will be 24 themed Christmas rooms inside plus snowflake showers and an illuminated light and sound trail.

The event runs from November 4, 2023, to January 7, 2024. Chatsworth’s annual Christmas market also returns from November 4 to November 26 too. Find out more and book tickets via the Chatsworth website .

Severn Valley Railway Enchanted Express

Meet Father Christmas when you board the Enchanted Express at Severn Valley Railway. You listen to Dame Julie Walters tell the classic tale ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas and see characters from the story before Santa gives out gifts.

There are four departures a day from Bridgnorth Station on weekends from December 2 to 24. Find out more and book tickets via the Severn Valley Railway website. SVR also has a Santa Train but this involves a Christmas show rather than a meeting with Santa.

Stories with Santa at Warwick Castle

How about storytime with Santa in the cosy library at Warwick Castle this year? Once again, the whole castle is set to be transformed with twinkling trees and decorations.

There's also a light trail, ice rink and Christmas market. Santa will be at Warwick Castle on selected dates from November 25 to December 24. The other festivities continue until January 7, 2024. Find out more and book tickets via Warwick Castle website.

North Pole Adventure at the National Forest Adventure Farm

Children receive a personalised ticket from Father Christmas then check in and collect passports and Elf coins before setting off on a journey through a ‘magical portal to the North Pole’ to see Father Christmas and choose a gift from the present room at the National Forest Adventure Farm in Burton.

There’s also the chance to decorate gingerbread with Mother Christmas, sing festive songs with Silvermist the reindeer, meet a talking polar bear under the Northern Lights and fix the toy machine to help save Christmas. Runs on selected dates from November 25 to December 22. Find out more and book via the Adventure Farm website

Winter Glow at Malvern Showground

You can see Father Christmas in his grotto at Winter Glow this year. The festive event will return to the Malvern Showground on November 24 and run on selected dates until December 24.

There will also be an ice rink, light trail and traditional fairground plus several new activities for 2023, including elf circus skills workshops and pet experiences. The festivities will continue after Santa has left, right through until Saturday January 6, 2024.

You can pick and choose which activities you want to do. Find out more and book via the Winter Glow website.

Santa Sleepover at Alton Towers

You can book in for a Santa Sleepover at Alton Towers. The special treat includes an overnight stay, a visit to Santa's grotto and fun Christmas attractions, a new panto, a festive evening meal and live entertainment, entrance to the theme park and waterpark and nine holes of Extraordinary Golf.

Runs from November 24 to December 23. Find out more and book via the Alton Towers website.

Santa Show at Cadbury World

There's no grotto at Cadbury World but you can see Santa in a special stage show. There will also be a sleigh filled with chocolatey gifts for all little helpers at the show.

There are 17 shows a day during weekends from November 18 to December 23, 2023 plus December 21 and 22. Find out more and book via the Cadbury World website. It's also a great place to stock up on Christmas presents from the Cadbury Gift Shop.

Follow Brummie Mummies on Facebook and Instagram , listen to our podcasts and sign up to our free Brummie Mummies newsletter for more ideas on festive things to do between now and Christmas.

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Insignia Magazine

Best Santa’s Grottos

He’s made his list, checked it twice and now Santa Claus is coming to town, bringing cheer and joy to billions of families around the world. Take in these extraordinary winter landscapes that will leave you and your children starry-eyed as the day inside these magical Christmas Grotto’s comes to an end.

The Chelsea Grotto is an hour-long spectacular, where kids are transported to the North Pole to meet Santa and his elves. Or try the top-secret headquarters at the Royal Albert Hall, where kids are treated to puppetry, music and of course the man in red. As for the golden ticket? It’s the Swarovski-sponsored grotto at Harrods, which has been an annual affair since 1955.

Kids will be delights meeting Santa Claus inside this centuries-of famous Tudor-revival building every Sunday from 24 November. Parents can shop while children are enraptured by Santa Claus, leaving happy with a goody bag and photograph.

FORTNUM & MAISON

Storytelling with Father Christmas certainly sounds like the ideal way to wile away a festive day. Not only will young people leave filled with joy , they are also given a goody bag to remember the experience.

ROYAL ALBERT HALL

Father Christmas once again returns to his secret London headquarters at the Royal Albert Hall. An hour-long “theatrical walk-around event”, children will encounter a range of magical North Pole characters in various spaces of the Hall on their way to meet Father Christmas himself. The icing on the cake? Children will be given the chance to make and bring home their very own stuffed toy!

CHELSEA GROTTO

Based in the heart of Chelsea on Pavilion Road, the Chelsea Christmas Grotto in collaboration with famed children’s entertainers, Sharky & George, transports children to a West London-version of the North Pole. Children will enjoy 30 minutes of classic Sharky & George games before entering Father Christmas’ workshop. Action-packed, children will be given the opportunity to try their hand at gingerbread biscuit or bauble decorating and a host of festive crafts.

A family experience like no other, this year, Harrods has partnered with Swarovski to bring families The Secret Forest Grotto. Feast your senses on the magical snow-covered woodland filled with sparkling surprises that will leave little ones mesmerised by the magic of Christmas. And of course, it all wraps up with a very special meeting with Father Christmas.

Occupying four adjoining London townhouses, 11 Cadogan Gardens is a low key but opulent Chelsea favourite that recently underwent a top-to-tail refurbishment. With its glossy individually decorated bedrooms and an delightful lower-ground-floor Italian restaurant, it’s a spectacular place to spend the holiday period.

Look out at New York’s famous glittering Christmas tree while enjoying a holiday breakfast with Saint Nicholas at the Rock Center Cafe. Kids will be enamoured by the magic man, as well as the decadent chocolate foundation and candy bar. The Ritz in Westchester New York plays host to a holiday extravaganza, including a face painter, balloon artists, cookie decorating, holiday movie showing, and of course visits with Santa. Or to truly get into the Christmas mood, visit the 170 shopping and food vendors and glide across the 17,000-square-foot ice-skating rink at the Bryant Park Winter Village.

SANTA’S WINTER WONDERLAND AT BROOKFIELD PLACE

Explore Santa Claus’s Winter Wonderland at Brookfield place this holiday season, as kids play in a winter activity centre , ice skate, shop and gorge on festive treats. Moments from the spectacular and iconic Rockefeller Center tree, the action is non stop. And this is all of course before sitting down with a crimson velvet-clad Santa.

THE RITZ WESTCHESTER

Families who wish to spend time with Santa in style can enjoy face painting, cookie decorating, balloon artists and watching some of their favourite holiday flicks as part of a new Breakfast with Santa at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Westchester.

BRYANT PARK WINTER VILLAGE

What started as a small holiday market now attracts more than three million people each year. From jewellery to greeting cards, even puppets – there are more than 170 merchants selling gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list. And beyond shopping, there is a 17,000 square-foot open-air skating rink and of course visits with Santa.

The reception area at The Baccarat Hotel  glistens like Cinderella’s slipper. Located across from the Museum of Modern Art, The Baccarat Hotel is in the heart of Midtown and moments from the thrum of New York high fashion and culture, including the Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and Fifth Avenue. Inside is not unlike an art installation in its own right – beginning with the 17 crystal chandeliers spread out across the premises, including two 1909 crystal creations and one made from gilded bronze, as well as the  mesmerising LED-light-patterned wall of 1,800 glittering Baccarat Harcourt wineglasses. The first hotel from the eponymous French crystal marque, Baccarat isn’t shy to put its brand to work, displaying 15,000 crystal pieces throughout the 114-room property.

Tverskoy Boulevard is the longest and oldest boulevard of its kind in central Moscow and at Christmas it comes alive with lights, trees and festive stalls selling souvenirs, mulled wine and other seasonal delights. Equally, Kuzminsky Park, the official Moscow residence of Father Christmas is alight with holiday events and offerings.

TVERSKOY SQUARE

Journey into Christmas on Tverskoy Square. Be delighted by 38 venues offering unique art objects, riveting street shows, concerts, cooking masterclasses and purchase decorative items, traditional food and unusual souvenirs. For all ages, Christmas comes alive.

KUZMINSKY PARK

A magical destination with its twinkling canopy of lights and bushy evergreen trees, for the festive seasons visitors will find festival stalls and offerings along this desirable destination. Mulled wine, seasonal treats and a host of kid-friendly activities, it’s a Christmas miracle.

A former Soviet-era hotel reimagined for the 21st century, The Four Seasons Moscow might just offer the best views of any hotel in the world. Floor-to-ceiling windows reveal cinematic views of neighbouring St Basil’s, Red Square and the mighty Kremlin walls. With its East-meets-West design aesthetic, cool cocktail bar and perhaps the most enviable addresss in the city, the hotel is certainly a site to behold. Facilities also include a vast spa with 17 rooms and a range of decadent treatments, including an all-over body scrub with flakes of 24-carat gold.

Finnish Lapland is a fascinating place to visit. The largest, northernmost region of Finland, there are plenty of opportunities for skiing, dogsledding, snowmobiling and a whole range of winter sports and activities. But let’s not forget – Finnish Lapland is also the home of Santa Claus and his reindeers.

Wilderness Hotel Nangu is located in a remote spot on the southern shore of Lake Inari, offering breathtaking views and some of the best views of the Northern Lights. An intimate, boutique hotel, it features just 24 cosy log rooms with large windows enabling guest to gaze upon the snowy Lapland wilderness from the warmth of their room. An adults-only property, it is the perfect adult’s playground where guests can try out snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing and truly let their inner child loose in the snowy wilderness.

At Paris Disneyland, unwrap everything that makes Christmas special, in the most enchanting of seasonal settings. Christmas at Disneyland Paris runs November 9 to January 6, 2020, and features holiday entertainment, elegant decorations, a Christmas parade and scrumptious seasonal food. And of course, young ones can meet Santa and his elves and hear all about how he travels the world spreading peace and joy.

Originally opened in 1928, the facade of Hotel Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris retains its authentic Art Deco charms. In its early years, the property hosted everyone from Winston Churchill to Michael Jackson. The hotel industry must be one of the most boisterous and ever-changing and in the mid-2000s the doors closed and there began an extensive overhaul under the creative direction of Phillipe Starck. The result was something unique within the Parisian market, better-known for its over-starched table cloths and excess of gold and patterned fabrics. A palace-grade hotel, what Starck created in the newly unveiled Royal Monceau was bold – an interplay light and angles, melding classic with contemporary. The idea behind the 85 rooms and 64 suites is for them to feel more like apartments than a hotel. Colour-wise , throughout is a mix of whites, greys and pastel pinks.

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Enjoy the excitement of our carefully curated events calendar, from indulgent supper clubs and traditional afternoon teas to huge range of children’s activities, there really is something for everyone.

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Frosts Santa's Grotto Experience

Frosts Santa’s Grotto experience is back, and this year is filled with enchanting new activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Gather 'round the fire with Mrs. Christmas as she brings the magic of Christmas to life with her heart-warming stories.

Let your imagination run wild in our Toy Factory, where children can choose a Christmas-themed cuddly toy to build, adding a personal touch to their festive keepsake.

Experience the joy of meeting Father Christmas himself! Share your Christmas wishes and capture the moment with a memorable photo, he is excited to hear about all the good deeds and Christmas cheer you’ve spread this year.

Step into a winter wonderland and join in the fun of making special reindeer food to sprinkle on Christmas Eve. Learn the secrets of the Elf helpers and ensure Rudolph and his friends find their way to your home.

Finally take a piece of the magic home with you by working with your family to plant a mini-Christmas tree, in a beautiful bamboo plant pot. This activity is a wonderful way to create lasting family traditions and watch your tree grow year after year.

Book your visit to Frosts Santa's Grotto and immerse yourself in a festive adventure filled with joy, laughter, and festive spirit.

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