There aren’t many things as exciting as visiting Santa (or to some, Father Christmas!) at Christmastime. Whether it’s a trip to his grotto, on a festive train ride or even after a delicious roast dinner, we’ve rounded up where you can mee Santa in Norwich and Norfolk this festive season.
Visit our City of Stories blog for more things to do this Christmas!
Santa’s Magical Journey at Thursford
23 November – 23 December, 11am – 4.30pm
Give your children, grandchildren, or someone special a day they’ll never forget! Come and visit Father Christmas in the magical setting of Thursford. It will be a treat to cherish for everyone who wants to experience this magical fantasy journey.
Your journey takes you from penguins and polar bears to giant sized teddy bears ready to load Santa’s sleigh and then past the busy elves hard at work in the toy factory with the wonderful wrapping machine. You’ll meet lots of fantasy characters including the snowman’s family but watch out for the snowballs!After your visit to Father Christmas’s grotto, your journey continues as you venture outside to the Enchanted Journey of Light.
Father Christmas Experience at Cromer Pier
30 November – 23 December, 9am – 11.50am
Make one of those all too precious memories with your family, a unique, personal, and intimate experience that the whole family can be a part of with lots of opportunities to take your own keepsake photographs and videos. The cost is just £17.50 per child and includes a quality age-appropriate gift and as many photographs and videos as you like. As many adults as you please go absolutely free, so nobody has to miss out.
Father Christmas Meet & Greet at BeWILDerwood
30 November – 23 December, 10am – 4.30pm, included in entrance ticket
New for 2024: Meet Father Christmas himself! Children will have the opportunity to say hello and all children will receive a festive gummy lollipop.
Father Christmas’ Grotto at Jarrolds
1 December – 24 December, 9am – 4.50pm
Step into a world of festive wonder as Father Christmas and his band of elves make their journey from the snow-dusted North Pole to the heart of Norwich this festive season. Join us at Jarrolds as we welcome the season’s most beloved visitor to his new-look grotto, now nestled in our toy department on the third floor.
Each child will receive a gift from Father Christmas himself, a little piece of Christmas magic to take home as a cherished keepsake of a new core memory.
Meet Father Christmas at Strangers’ Hall
1 December – 22 December (Sundays only), 10am – 8pm
On Sundays, Father Christmas is in residence in his toy workshop. Strangers’ Hall let him park his (actual!) sleigh in the museum as a deal. Please book in advance. Spot the cute little felt mice will around the museum; see how many you can spot. There will also be festive craft activities.
Festive Express at Bure Valley Railway
7 December – 24 December, 11am – 6pm
Hop on board the Festive Express steam trains this December. Enjoy a 1 hour experience from Aylsham Station, including festive treats, a 30 minute steam train ride and a visit to see Santa in his grotto. Each child will receive a personalised present from Santa himself. As you make your way back to Aylsham Station Santa will be waiting to greet you on his sleigh. Depart your train and visit Santa and his elves in his grotto.
Santa’s Sunday Lunch at the Maids Head Hotel
Sunday 8 December, 12pm – 2.30pm
Join us for a magical Christmas treat for all the family, with a special Santa’s Sunday Lunch served in our WinePress Restaurant. After lunch there will be a special visit from Father Christmas, who will be bringing gifts for all the children. Child friendly menu available.
Sunday Lunch with Father Christmas at Delia’s, Norwich City Football Club
Sunday 8 December, 12pm – 4pm
Join us in the Top of the Terrace Restaurant with stunning views over the pitch for the best Sunday Christmas Carvery lunch with a special visit from Father Christmas on Sunday 8th December. A day perfect for all the family, as adults enjoy a three-course lunch, whilst children aged 11 and under will enjoy a two-course lunch, games, entertainment and a gift from Father Christmas. Under 3’s can receive a complimentary meal with the purchase of an adult meal.
Santa’s Grotto for Dogs at The Forum
Sunday 15 December, 11am – 3pm, no booking required
If you love your dog, you’ll love this! Bring your beloved pooch to Santa’s Grotto for Dogs at The Forum. Pose for a family ‘pawtrait’ and help raise money for the local RSPCA Norwich. Enjoy this very silly festive Forum tradition, canine costumes are encouraged!
