Pixal Rose Hair Design (Leaderboard Ad)

Let's Talk

Your Total Guide To entertainment

Santa’s Grottos in Swindon & Wiltshire | Where to Meet Santa in 2025

Visiting a Santa’s grotto has become a magical Christmas tradition, and Swindon and Wiltshire are packed with festive experiences for families in 2025. From enchanting grottoes in shopping centres to immersive winter wonderlands, there are plenty of opportunities to meet Santa, take photos, and enjoy festive treats.

Our guide to Santa’s grottos in Swindon and Wiltshire highlights the very best places to meet Santa this Christmas, including family-friendly venues, themed events, and interactive experiences for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a cosy grotto near town or a full festive day out, we’ve got you covered.

Planning a festive outing? Don’t forget to check out our Christmas light trails in Swindon and Wiltshire for a magical evening walk, explore our Christmas office parties guide if you’re organising a work celebration, or discover the top places for Christmas lunch and dinner in Swindon and Wiltshire to complete your seasonal experience.

Get ready to make 2025 extra special with a memorable visit to Santa’s grotto, perfect for families, friends, and anyone who loves the magic of Christmas.

After visiting Santa, why not continue the festive fun with our guide to Christmas light trails in Swindon and Wiltshire for magical evening walks?

Planning a festive outing with colleagues? Check out our Christmas office parties guide for ideas on seasonal celebrations.

Complete your Christmas day with a delicious meal by exploring our Christmas lunch and dinner guide in Swindon and Wiltshire.

Looking for more festive activities? Our things to do in Swindon and Wiltshire this Christmas guide has plenty of ideas for family fun.

A journey to Christmas at Frasers Plus Designer Outlet Swindon

Where: Frasers Plus Designer Outlet Swindon

When: 22nd, 23rd & 24th December

About: Step into a world of festive wonder this December with A Journey to Christmas, a magical and interactive experience where families can share in the joy and excitement of the season. Children will become part of a heartwarming Christmas story filled with adventure, laughter, and a special visit from Santa himself.

From enchanting characters to creative moments and plenty of Christmas cheer, this immersive journey is the perfect way to celebrate the magic of the holidays together.

Price: £2.50 booking fee which is refundable or can be donated to their charity partner of the year Julia's House Hospice.

 

Storytelling with Santa

Where: Frasers Plus Designer Outlet Swindon

When: Every Thursday & Friday in December 1pm & 1.45pm.

About: Climb aboard for a cosy storytelling session as Santa himself shares the enchanting tale of the Christmas Train - a magical journey that whisks children through snowy forests, sparkling starry skies, and straight to the heart of the North Pole.

Gathered around, little ones will listen as Santa reveals the secrets of the train: how it runs on Christmas cheer, how the tickets must be stamped with magic, and how every passenger plays a part in keeping the holiday spirit alive.

Plus, don't miss Santa and his cheerful helper roaming the malls, spreading festive cheer, posing for photos, and sharing magical holiday moments with families. Every Thursday and Friday 3pm - 6pm. 

Find out more

Cirencester

Cotswold Reindeer Herd - Christmas Event

Where: Henley Cottage, Ampney Crucis, Cirencester, GL7 5RS

When: 15th November up until 31st December 2025

  • Reindeer Only: 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th and 27th-31st December
  • All other dates will also include the Santa's Grotto

About: It wouldn’t be Christmas without reindeer and the team at Cotswold Reindeer Herd certainly knows a thing about celebrating the festive period with their Santa experience bringing Father Christmas to the Cotswolds.

Just a short drive from Swindon you can join Santa in his grotto, interact with the wonderful real reindeer and even pick up your Christmas tree. This Santa’s grotto experience is certainly a family-festive day out not to miss.

Price: From £23.50 per child. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults will be charged the standard £12.00 reindeer visit fee.

How to book: Book online HERE.

Find out more

Stanton

Stanton House Hotel

Where: Stanton House Hotel, The Avenue, Stanton Fitzwarren, Swindon, SN6 7SD

When: Sunday 30th November 2025, 12:00pm - 3:00pm

About: 
Get ready for a magical festive experience as Santa Claus himself stops by the Stanton House Hotel! Bring the whole family for a day filled with Christmas spirit and unforgettable memories. Children can visit Santa's enchanting grotto, where he will read them a captivating story and present them with a special gift.

Take as many photographs as you like with Santa and create lasting memories. In addition to meeting Santa, families can enjoy a variety of Christmas activities, including: 

  • Christmas Stalls
  • Facepainting
  • Christmas Colouring
  • Tombola
  • Guess the Name of the Reindeer
  • Delicious Carvery

Price: £7.50 per child, or £20 for 3 children

Booking: 

  • Slots are every 15 minutes from 12:00pm till 2:45pm
  • All slots must be booked and paid for in advance
  • Bookings will be taken up until 16th of November
  • Please call 01793 861779 or email [email protected]
Find out more

Swindon

Roves Farm - Christmas Experience

Where: Roves Farm & Visitor Centre, Sevenhampton, Swindon, SN6 7QG

When: Select days throughout December

About: Walk through twinkling lights to visit Father Christmas in his grotto. Take a seat in his cosy log cabin and be sure to let Father Christmas know your Christmas wish. All children will be given a Golden Coin to spend in the Toy Shop, with shelves full of great quality toys for all ages. You can even try your hand at making some delicious treats for Rudolph and his reindeer friends. And don’t miss the amazing interactive Elf Show, with a fun party atmosphere.

Hop aboard Father Christmas’ sleigh for a photo opportunity, enjoy paper crafts, meet & feed the animals & lots more. You can spend a whole day on the farm at this very special festive family experience. 

Price: Various

How to book: Now open for pre-booking via www.rovesfarm.co.uk for selected dates in December.

Find out more

A Magical Christmas Experience

Where: TWC Home Improvements, Elgin Industrial Estate, Unit B Athena Avenue, Swindon, SN2 8EJ

About: This year, make your visit to Santa a Totally Crazy one...
Totally Crazy, known for their energetic children’s parties and larger-than-life characters, has transformed the TWC Home Improvements showroom on Elgin Industrial Estate in Swindon into a festive winter wonderland for the season.

Visitors are welcomed by Santa’s Chief Elf, who checks the naughty-or-nice list before sending guests on their holiday adventure. The Full Experience (£19.95) includes creating reindeer food in the Reindeer Shed, crafting a Christmas keepsake in Mrs Claus’s Cabin, a private visit with Santa in his grotto, and choosing a gift in the Toy Workshop.

A simpler Grotto & Gift option (£9.95) is available for younger children, offering a Santa visit and a gift without the craft activities.

On select dates, the Grinch takes over the grotto, giving families the chance to meet the famously grouchy character instead of Santa. There are also special dog-friendly grotto sessions, where canine visitors can enjoy a photo with Santa and a festive treat.

Returning for 2025 is the popular Red Door Elf Shop, stocked with outfits and accessories to keep every Elf on the Shelf looking their best, whether chosen by little helpers or bought secretly by grown-ups.

Dates:

  • Saturday 6 December 2025
  • Sunday 7 December 2025
  • Saturday 13 December 2025
  • Friday 19 December 2025
  • Saturday 20 December 2025
  • Sunday 21 December 2025

Price: From £9.95pp (Adults go free)

How to book: Click here

Find out more

Frequently Asked Questions – Santa’s Grottos in Swindon & Wiltshire

What are the best Santa’s grottos in Swindon and Wiltshire?
Swindon and Wiltshire offer a wide range of festive grottos, from cosy shopping centre setups to large winter wonderlands. Popular options include themed grottos, interactive experiences, and family-friendly attractions.

When can I visit Santa’s grottos in Swindon and Wiltshire?
Most grottos open in late November and run through December, with some extending into early January. Each venue sets its own schedule, so it’s best to check in advance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance to meet Santa?
Yes, many grottos require tickets, especially on weekends and during peak evenings. Booking early ensures your preferred time slot and avoids disappointment.

Are Santa’s grottos suitable for young children?
Absolutely! Grottos are designed for families and young children, often featuring interactive activities, festive storytelling, and opportunities to meet Santa in a magical setting.

Are there any refreshments or festive treats available?
Many grottos offer seasonal snacks, hot chocolate, and small gifts for children. Some larger venues have on-site cafes or food stalls for the whole family to enjoy.

Can I bring my camera or take photos with Santa?
Yes, most grottos allow photography. Some may provide professional photos or themed photo packages, so check each venue’s policy.

Are Santa’s grottos wheelchair accessible?
Many grottos are designed to be family-friendly and accessible, but accessibility may vary by venue. It’s recommended to check with individual grottos for specific details.

South Swindon Parish Council (2025 Animated Ad)
Kelmscott Manor (Animated Ad)
Barnes Travel
Hollywood Bowl (Animated Ad)
Lydiard Park Hotel & Conference Centre (Animated Ad)
Co-Decode (2025 Animated Ad)
Dorcan January Animated Ad
Skydive Netheravon
Jurassic Fields 2026 (Animated Ad)
Roves Farm
Wyvern Theatre (Dial M Leaderboard Ad)

Weather in Wiltshire

Update cookies preferences