There can be few things more magical for little ones than meeting Father Christmas. And as long as they believe in the man himself, here are some of the best places to find him in London.
Seeing a child’s face light up when they set eyes on the ‘Man-in-Red’ is joyous, as is listening to them tell him what they’d love to wake up to on December 25th – and promising that they do deserve their place on the ‘good list’. From North Pole Villages to cosy chalet-style grottos and winter wonderlands, make Christmas dreams come true with this most special festive day out and the most special places to meet Father Christmas in London this year.
Santa’s Elf Town at Westfield
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Combine a bit of (sneaky) Christmas shopping with a trip to Santa’s Elf Town at Westfield in Shepherds Bush. The North Pole Village will magically appear on 7th December 2024 and stay until the 24th. When you arrive you’ll will be greeted by cheerful elves and invited to join a festive quest. Santa has misplaced the key to his sleigh and, without it, Christmas can’t begin, so he’ll need the help of little visitors. Once the key is found, children will meet Santa himself so he can thank them and listen to their present requests. During this experience families can help Santa start his sleigh, hear the engines roar and watch the lights twinkle – all making it a vivid reality and plenty of fun and magic.
The FUJIFILM House of Photography Grotto, Covent Garden
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Step into a huge festive extravaganza at FUJIFILM House of Photography in Covent Garden. The entire third floor of the building – all 3000 square feet of it – has been transformed into an immersive winter wonderland with surprises around every corner. Enter to snow-topped trees leading to Santa’s Post Office where you can write and post your letters to the North Pole, and within the area Game Zone, you’ll find a giant advent calendar wall with a chance to win prizes. Then it’s on to meet the man himself in his Grotto which is styled as a cosy chalet with a glowing fireplace. Being Fujifilm there are plenty of photo opportunities too and Santa’s gift to little ones – a photo of course!
Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park
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For a fun day out that really caters to all ages – plus the chance to see Father Christmas – book tickets to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. For six weeks, a magical mix of festive fun arrives in the centre of London that you can see far before your arrival, featuring rollercoaster and fairground rides to ice skating and shows. There is a dedicated Santa Land with family-friendly rides, stalls and places to eat. It’s here where you’ll find the man in red. Entry to the grotto is included in your ticket price and is on a first come first served basis, so be sure to get there early. There is even a special parade (specific days and times can be found on the website) where you can meet and wave to Mrs Claus and the elves too.
Santa’s Grotto At London Zoo
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Santa really does get everywhere – even the zoo! Happily tucked into a cosy corner at London Zoo he will have more animals than just reindeer to keep him company this Christmas. Children can take part in Christmas crafts before they pop into his magical grotto to have a chat where they will be given a surprise toy. While you are there, take kids to see all the animals to add to this special experience. Or if you really want to go all out book the VIP breakfast with Santa where elves will sneak you into the Zoo at 8am, before normal opening, for a very special time with Mrs Claus in the Tiny Giants exhibit, after which your group will have a special early morning tour whilst the Zoo is waking up before heading to the grotto to meet Santa. There are a few slots left for breakfast so get booking fast!
Story Time With Santa At The Chelsea Psychic Garden
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Little ones will be mesmerised by Father Christmas reading them a story at the Chelsea Psychic Garden. Step into a picture-perfect world on the banks of the River Thames where you can settle down under the twinkling lights in the charming Greenhouse Grotto to listen to an enchanting festive tale. Afterwards each child will receive a special gift from Father Christmas then explore the stunning winter beauty of London’s oldest botanic garden while you enjoy a hot chocolate or a mulled wine for the grown-ups.
Meet Father Christmas At Sutton House In Hackney
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Few places do Christmas better than the National Trust. For traditional vibes with all the trimmings – think mulled wine, beautifully decorated trees and wonderful gift shops – the charity’s properties lay out a wonderful day out for all the family. They are dotted all over the UK, but in London, check out Sutton House in Hackney. Father Christmas will be calling from the North Pole on three Sundays to meet children and hear their Christmas wishes. He will be there from noon to 4pm each day and booking your slot early is recommended as he will be in demand! After you have met him and had your photo taken, you can head off to explore this 500-year-old property and discover the different toys children have played with over the years.
Meet Santa And His Elves at The Royal Naval College, Greenwich
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If you’ve never taken the kids to Royal Naval College at Greenwich, then there could be no better time for a first visit than in December. They have a packed schedule of truly lovely festive events set to the backdrop of this spectacular, historical destination in the heart of the Maritime Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join ‘Old Royal Father Christmas’ and his granddaughter (nicknamed Helper-Bean) for a special reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas, before receiving a special gift and having the opportunity to take a photo with them both. Or how about seeing a sweet interactive show, The Elves and the Magic Bear, with all it’s singing and dancing as the elves make sure every child gets a present in time for December 25th. Finally enjoy a festive afternoon tea in the Undercroft Café. A packed day of fun for everyone.
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