Santa Experiences in Essex 2024

We hope you’ve been good this year, because you can visit Santa’s Grotto across Essex to chat about what’s on your Christmas list, and maybe even get an early present. One must-do activity each festive season for the family is to visit the big man himself. Take a look at our top Santa experiences in Essex below.

Thames Chase

Join Mrs. Claus and her elves in their cozy kitchen at Thames Chase. Children will have the opportunity to decorate a delicious homemade biscuit while Mrs. Claus shares enchanting stories from Santa's workshop. Each child will receive a special gift from Father Christmas. Remember to bundle up and wear appropriate clothing, as it can get quite chilly in the North Pole!

Chelmsford Museum

Father Christmas will be visiting the Chelmsford Museum for two weekends this December. He will be taking up residence in 'The Snug', which will be decorated beautifully to make the perfect setting for some festive photos. Each child who visits Father Christmas will receive a great gift! Tickets can be booked online.

Clacton Pier

Step into the magical world of Clacton Pier's Magical Christmas event! Discover Santa's Enchanted Grotto and share your wishes with the jolly old man himself. Enjoy the thrill of Santa's Magical Sleigh Ride: 4D, and admire the breathtaking views of the illuminated pier and giant Christmas tree from the Big Wheel. With twinkling lights and joyful decorations everywhere, it's a holiday experience perfect for creating lasting family memories!

Little Monsters House of Fun

Throughout December, Little Monsters House of Fun in Great Dunmow will once again create a fantastic festive Grotto in Essex. Experience a personalized Santa experience, meeting Santa and his elves and sharing your Christmas wishes. Tickets include entry to the soft play area, a visit with Father Christmas, a gift, and a Santa hat!

Colne Valley Railway

Say hello to Santa at Colne Valley Railway this year! Visit Santa's grotto before boarding a diesel train to collect a gift from his workshop. Even your furry friend can join in the fun! This is a must-do Christmas activity. (Selected dates from November 30 to December 24, from £10.00.)

Marsh Farm

The magic of Christmas returns to Marsh Farm. Enter the North Pole, where elves in Passport Control will ensure you're all set to go. Stop by the Elf Academy to find out if you're on the naughty or nice list, and create your own furry friend to take home at the Teddy Bear Market (November 16 - December 24).

Stoke By Nayland Resort

Immerse yourself in a sparkling winter wonderland and enjoy a delightful two-course Santa Sunday lunch at Stoke by Nayland resort! Taking place every Sunday from December 1st to 15th, this is an unforgettable Santa experience in Essex for the whole family, featuring fun activities and a surprise present for the little ones (from £12pp).

Colchester Zoo

One of the most anticipated Santa experiences in Essex! In the lead-up to Christmas, head to Colchester Zoo and enjoy the 'Magic of Christmas'. The zoo will be filled with festive activities - see if you can spot Santa's elves or his reindeer! Visitors can also participate in 'The Santa Experience' and meet Father Christmas in a magical wonderland (from £16pp).

Colchester Castle

This Christmas, Santa will be treating children to special festive gifts in his enchanting grotto at Colchester Castle. Little ones will be able to share their Christmas wishes, meet Santa's helpers, and take part in a magical experience within the historic castle (£10 per child).

Audley End House and Gardens

Santa is also spreading festive cheer at Audley End House and Gardens in Saffron Walden. This Christmas, visitors to the stately home can enjoy festive activities starting from November 30th. Children will be captivated by storytelling, music, and a meet and greet with Father Christmas.

Wyvernwood

Experience the magic of Wyvernwood with a festive twist at their Enchanted Midwynter Festival. Children will have the opportunity to meet Santa and his friends, including Tatiana, Queen of the Fairies, and will receive a £5 gift voucher to use in the Treasure Trove!

St Osyth Priory

Create unforgettable family memories at St Osyth Priory on December 8th. Enjoy welcome drinks and a story in the Great Hall, followed by a delicious afternoon tea in The Gallery, where you can chat with Father Christmas while he enjoys a mince pie or two. This is a wonderful occasion to bring family and friends together in a magnificent setting.

1935 Rooftop Restaurant

Enjoy a deliicious three-course lunch with Santa at the 1935 Rooftop Restaurant at the Holiday Inn Southend! After you indulge in your scrumptious Sunday roast, a meet and greet will be hosted with the big man. Snap a photo with Father Christmas to capture festive memories, and he may even have a special gift for those aged 12 and under!  

Adventure Inside

Head to the seaside this Christmas! Adventure Inside in Southend offers a Wonderland experience like no other. Tickets not only include a Santa experience but also a free round of golf, free entry to Sealife Adventure, and £2 worth of free games in their Funtopia Arcade. (Selected dates throughout December.)

Old Macdonalds Farm

Make friends with giant polar bears, explore the interactive Gingerbread Trail, visit Santa's post office, and more at Old Macdonalds Farm! Their Christmas Journey event takes place from November 22nd to December 24th, making it the perfect day out for the whole family to enjoy this winter.

Which Santa experience will you be booking in Essex this year? For more exciting things to do in Essex this Christmas, visit our What’s On page here.