Meet Santa in Leicestershire

Nothing captures the magic of Christmas quite like a visit to Santa’s Grotto. Across Leicestershire, there are plenty of enchanting spots to treat your little ones. From beautiful garden centres to dining experiences, animal adventures and much more, here’s your run-down of some of the best ways to meet Father Christmas (or Santa Paws) this festive season.

Take a seat on a traditional heritage steam train travelling through the Leicestershire countryside and to the Leicester North Pole (or Loughborough, as it’s known by locals!) You will be joined by not only Santa, but Mrs Claus and the GCR elves, who will spread the magic through singing, storytelling and activities of all kinds for the kids. Grown-ups will also have their own treat of Irish Cream Liqueur and a toasty mince pie to enjoy while you relax and soak up the joy and laughter of the children. Get your tickets before they’re gone.

Who says Santa only hangs out in the snow! This year, he has swapped his sleigh for a Tropical Birdland. Wander through the fair-lit trail, lantern in hand to meet Santa in his cosy grotto. Families can enjoy the perfect mix of festive fun and wildlife wonder, feeding the parrots in this hands-on attraction. Don’t miss out on a unique Christmas experience, buy your tickets here.

Amy’s House is bringing a special SEND-friendly Grotto to Burbage on 14 December, ensuring festive joy for every child this season. Designed for children with additional needs, the grotto offers a calm, caring, and inclusive space where families can enjoy meeting Santa in a relaxed setting. More information here.

Meet Santa in his enchanting grotto at the Deer Barns Visitor Centre in Bradgate Park, chat with the our cheerful elves, enjoy festive crafting and take home a special gift. Running every weekend from 29 November onwards. Pre-booking is essential, reserve your place here!

Experience a magical breakfast or dinner with Santa and his elves at Gates Garden Centres in Leicestershire. Alongside the meal, your little ones will enjoy festive fun with Santa and his Elves, plus a wonderful special gift to take home. Then you can enjoy the magical Christmas decorations and model villages (plus festive food trucks) that make a visit to Gates the perfect festive treat. Book now so you don’t miss out.

Buttercups Tearoom in Billesdon is transforming into the sparkling North Pole this Christmas, inviting families to enjoy a truly magical festive experience. Little ones can embark on an arctic trail, spotting friendly polar animals before meeting Santa in his grotto. Each child receives a special gift, and families can capture all the magic with a photo- the perfect keepsake. Every weekend from 6 to 21 December, between 10am and 3pm Get your tickets now.

From 28-30 November soak up the spirit of a traditional Victorian Christmas, with Santa’s Grotto centre stage. Running alongside a charming vintage fun fair, this is a perfect blend of nostalgia and Christmas cheer for all ages. Tickets to the market are free but be sure to book Santa’s grotto in advance.

On 6 & 7 December and the 20 & 21 December Santa will be making his way to Bitsy’s Emporium, just outside the city centre. He’ll be ready to meet your kids and pets (this Santa has Paws as well as Claus) with dogs and cats welcome and encouraged! Then grab a festive cheese toastie and homemade cake from this superb independent café. Book your Santa spot here.

Hop aboard a real sleigh ride through snowy forests and twinkling lights before arriving at Santa’s cosy log cabin, where friendly elves bring the North Pole to life. Your special golden tickets with give you access to the park’s Winter Wonderland, packed with fun activities. Book your tickets online now.

Visit Santa at Tithe Barn for an extra special treat, where you can indulge in a delicious breakfast or lunch with Santa. Every Saturday or Sunday from 6 December, each child will leave with a souvenir photo and a gift (and a £5 voucher for the adults to come back) all for only £15. If you have a four-legged furry child, don’t miss the Santa Paws event on Sunday 30 November and treat your dog to a wholesome, unique experience in support of Leicester Animal Aid. Reserve your spot here.

Santa’s Grotto is coming to Stoughton Grange in Oadby! Step into Santa’s cosy Grotto and enjoy magical tales of Christmas from the big man himself, before joining in with a cheery festive sing-a-long. Every child ticket includes a special gift from Santa to take home. Visit on 13–14 & 19–23 December. There are also limited spots on Christmas Eve. You can also come and join a very special Breakfast with Santa event. Book your place here

On 6^th December, a wholesome local community event provides the festive atmosphere and entertainment in different locations within the Borough of Oadby and Wigston. You will find the classic Santa’s grotto in Elliott Hall amongst endless craft and gift stalls, surrounded by street entertainment, live music and steaming food to top of your visit to Santa. Don’t miss the light switch on at 5:30pm to brighten up the evening. Find more information here.