The clocks have gone back, the John Lewis advert has aired, and my middle child has already started compiling an impressively lengthy Christmas list. Now all she needs is a direct line to Father Christmas to ensure her extensive wish list makes it onto the sleigh!
Happily, the big man himself will be dropping into Somerset to chat to youngsters before the big day. You’ll find him deep inside a cave at Cheddar, tucked into an oak vat at a cider farm, on a heritage railway platform and hanging out with real reindeer near Yeovil. There are big-ticket days out, free visits for when the Christmas budget’s feeling the strain, and even a grotto for the dog!
I’ve rounded up as many places as I can to see Santa in Somerset in 2026, with dates, prices and what’s included. I’ll keep updating the guide as organisers release details or as I come across them. If you’re planning a whole season of festive outings, my guide to what’s on this Christmas in Somerset has the lot, and my 50 best things to do in Somerset will keep you busy well into the new year.
Whether you’re after a full-on Christmas adventure or simply want a quick selfie and a chinwag with the dude in red himself, there’s loads to choose from, just make sure you book early!
For more festive shenanigans, I’ve also put together a selection of enchanting Christmas lights trails, Christmas markets, Twixmas activities, must-eat festive foods and pantomime listings.
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Please note: I’ve included confirmed details where they’re available in the event information I’ve gathered. Some organisers have yet to publish their full 2026 plans, so I’ve marked these as TBC. Dates, prices and activities can change, so always check the organiser’s website before booking or setting off.
Santa grottos and Christmas experiences in Somerset
If you’re looking for the full Santa experience, rather than a quick appearance at a Christmas market, these are the places I’d investigate first.
1. Wookey Hole Winter Wonderland, near Wells
Where: Wookey Hole, near Wells · When: Selected dates, 21 November-24 December 2026 · Gift included
Wookey Hole’s limestone caverns have been millennia in the making, and every Christmas they are transformed into something altogether more sparkly. Head deep into the rock and you’ll find the chambers glowing with thousands of fairy lights and theatrical projections, with the old legend of the Witch of Wookey brought vividly to life along the way.
The big headline for 2026 is the Wookey Express, a brand-new 4D train ride that whisks families through a snow-covered world, straight to Father Christmas’s grotto. Every child then gets to step inside the toy factory and hand-pick their own present.
Beyond the caves there are animatronic dinosaurs, festive circus performances, a holiday film at the 4D cinema, soft play, and a vintage penny arcade.
Fancy staying the night? For a treat that’s a big step up from the usual Santa visit, Wookey Hole Hotel is launching ‘Christmas After Dark’ sleepovers on Saturday 5 and Saturday 12 December. Once the day trippers have headed home, the gates close and the winter twilight settles over the Mendips, the magic is only just getting started for hotel guests. You get the full seasonal works: rides on the Wookey Express, a meet-and-greet with Father Christmas, a hearty carvery dinner, live family entertainment and bedtime stories read by Mother Christmas before everyone turns in.
2. Santa at Cheddar Gorge & Caves
Where: Cheddar · When: Selected dates, 21 November-24 December 2026 · Gift included for a small additional cost
Fancy meeting Father Christmas deep inside a world-famous cave? At Cheddar Gorge & Caves, Santa has rather cleverly commandeered Gough’s Cave for his underground Christmas headquarters. It’s a cave with quite a history: it revealed Cheddar Man, Britain’s oldest and most complete human skeleton, and has spent years quietly maturing truckles of the town’s famous cheese. Now it has another important job: as Father Christmas’s underground headquarters.
Deep underground, against a backdrop of glistening limestone rock formations, children are invited behind the scenes of Santa’s operation. The elves are hard at work sorting letters, checking destinations and putting the finishing touches to the toys before the big night. There’s also a chance to meet Father Christmas, listen to a Christmas story, sing a few festive songs and receive a gift.
Make a day of it: Your day admission ticket also includes access to Cox’s Cave, the Museum of Prehistory, Jacob’s Ladder, the Lookout Tower and the clifftop walks. The latter involve a fair few steps, but the views from more than 120 metres above the road are worth the climb. Afterwards, wander down Cheddar’s main street for a slab of locally made cheddar to take home, or pop into Old Rowlands Shop, where’s it’s Christmas all year round.
Good to know: The Santa experience requires a separate, pre-booked grotto ticket, in addition to standard admission. Grotto tickets are priced per person, with a slightly higher price for children receiving a gift. The experience lasts approximately 30 minutes. Dogs are welcome in the grotto, but Gough’s Cave has steep gradients and steps, so accessibility is limited. Check the official event page for session times, availability and full booking details.
3. Somerset Reindeer Ranch, near Yeovil
Where: Near Yeovil · When: 13, 14, 22, 23 & 24 December 2026 · Price: Check website · Gift included for under-16s
Forget the plastic antlers and pretend reindeer. Just outside Yeovil, there’s a herd of the real deal, and you can get up close to Santa’s most important mode of transport at Somerset Reindeer Ranch. If your children’s Christmas wish list includes meeting Rudolph and his pals, this is one festive outing that’s likely to go down very well!
This isn’t your standard queue-up, sit-on-Santa’s-knee and collect-a-present affair. The experience begins with time spent meeting the reindeer before little visitors are whisked off into Unicorn Princess storytime, a Narnia-inspired adventure through a magical wardrobe, luxury hot chocolate and a private meeting with Father Christmas. There are four family sessions throughout the afternoon and early evening, with the last running at 6.30pm.
Good to know: It’s not just for families. There’s an adults-only festive evening on Friday 11 December 2026 from 7pm, while Boxing Day brings family sessions without Santa for those who aren’t quite ready to call time on the Christmas magic. Check the official website for availability, prices and booking details.
4. Christmas on the Farm at Palette & Pasture, near Frome
Where: Near Frome · When: 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 22 & 23 Dec · Price: Children £19.50, under-2s £11.50, adults £7.50, dogs £6 · Toyshop gift
If your idea of Christmas magic involves wellies, farm animals and a little mud alongside the festive sparkle, Christmas on the Farm at Palette & Pasture needs to be on your list. Out in the countryside near Frome, this is a Santa experience with a distinctly farmyard flavour, and lots to keep little hands busy beyond the grotto visit.
Children can meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto and choose a present from his toy shop, before heading out to explore the farm. There’s a real Nordic sleigh for festive selfies, animals to feed, mischievous elves to spy and a giant farmyard snowman. Little visitors can also make reindeer food, write a letter to Santa and try their hand at candy cane planting. There’s also a rather unusual Christmas pudding to sniff out…
And it’s not just the children who get to join in. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leads, and for an extra £6, your four-legged family member can visit Santa and receive a present of their own!
Make a day of it: Once you’ve finished exploring the farm, head into Frome for a wander around its independent shops and cafés. Catherine Hill, with its colourful shopfronts and cobbled streets, is particularly lovely for a spot of Christmas browsing.
Good to know: Children’s tickets include an elf hat, animal feed and Christmas activities, while under-2s receive an elf hat, animal feed and a Santa visit with gift. Dogs who don’t need a present can join the farm trail for free. The event runs whatever the weather, so take wellies! The trail is suitable for all-terrain pushchairs and wheelchairs. Tickets are subject to a £0.50 booking fee.
5. Santa’s Grotto at Palmers Garden Centre, Yeovil 2026
Where: Palmers Garden Centre, Yeovil, BA20 2FH | When: 28 November to 23 December 2026 | Cost: £14 per child aged one and over; £6 for under-ones. Includes a gift.
Meet Father Christmas atthis Christmas, where little ones can share their festive wishes, receive a special gift, enjoy some Christmas crafting with ARTventurers, and take a pic in the festive photo booth.
A visit to Santa at Palmers Garden Centre is a festive treat for younger children. Little ones are welcomed by the elves before getting stuck into some Christmas crafts with ARTventurers, writing a letter to Santa and popping it in the North Pole postbox. Then it’s time to meet the big man himself, receive a special gift and capture the moment with a festive photo.
Quieter sessions are available for children with additional needs, with lower lighting, reduced noise and extra time with Santa.
Good to know: Advance booking is essential and tickets are non-refundable.
6. Father Christmas at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells
Where: Wells · When: 12, 13, 19, 20, 21 & 22 December 2026 · Price: £15 per child · Gift included
If you’re looking for somewhere that already looks as though it’s been plucked from a Christmas storybook, The Bishop’s Palace in Wells is a pretty good contender. With its medieval moat, resident swans, ancient stone walls and turrets, it doesn’t take much to make this place sparkle. Add Father Christmas into the mix and you’ve got a lovely setting for a catch up with Santa.
Children can meet Father Christmas in one of the palace’s most atmospheric rooms, complete with frosty trees, beautifully wrapped presents and twinkling lights.
There are two ways to enjoy the Santa experience. Book a daytime visit and, alongside meeting Father Christmas and receiving a gift, children can get creative with festive arts and crafts in the medieval Undercroft and follow a family trail through the Palace and gardens. Alternatively, opt for an evening appointment and add a post-grotto wander through twinkly lights to your Santa visit with the Palace’s Christmas illuminations. This year’s theme is The 12 Days of Christmas, with sparkling installations transforming the gardens and historic rooms after dark. Expect golden rings, milkmaids and plenty of swans-a-swimming.
Make a day of it: Wells Cathedral is practically next door, while the indie shops and historic market square make for a lovely festive wander.
Good to know: Each Santa visit lasts around five minutes, with a maximum of four children per booking. Tickets cost £15 per child, and accompanying adults must also book the relevant daytime admission or Christmas Illuminations ticket. Evening visits include access to the illuminations from 5pm-8pm. Check the official booking page for session availability and tickets.
7. Father Christmas at Dunster Castle, Exmoor
Where: Dunster, West Somerset · When: Selected dates, 12-19 December 2026 · Price: £10 per child, plus admission (free for National Trust members) · Gift included
If you’re going to meet Father Christmas, you might as well do it in an unbelievably scenic castle. Perched above one of Somerset’s prettiest medieval villages, Dunster Castle makes a rather splendid setting for a festive visit. Expect a traditional Christmas grotto, a chance for children to meet Father Christmas and a present to take home.
Make a day of it: Don’t rush straight home after your Santa visit. Dunster is worth a potter, with its cobbled high street, independent shops and historic Yarn Market. Have a wander, peer into the shop windows and find somewhere cosy for a hot chocolate or a cream tea. The castle grounds and surrounding countryside are lovely to explore too.
More castles and country houses: Take a look at my guide to 23 stately homes in Somerset you need to visit and my 5 Best castles in Somerset to visit posts for more historic inspiration!
Good to know: Advance booking is essential. The £10 children’s grotto ticket is in addition to standard admission, although National Trust members can visit free with their membership. Check the official National Trust booking page for available sessions, admission arrangements and full details before visiting.
8. Santa’s Grotto at The Grand Pier, Weston-super-Mare
Where: Weston-super-Mare | When: 5, 6, 12, 13 and 19-24 December 2026
Fancy meeting Santa halfway out to sea off the North Somerset coast? At Weston’s Grand Pier, children take the Enchanted Elevator to his festive grotto, where they can meet Santa and his elves, enjoy a Christmas story and receive a special gift. Mrs Claus might pop by too! The experience lasts around 10 minutes and is aimed at children aged 18 months to 10 years.
The grizzly green Grinch himself will also be stopping by. The infamous grouch will be masquerading as Father Christmas in an attempt to steal your Christmas cheer.
- Santa’s Grotto: 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 December 2026.
- Grinch Grotto takeover: 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20 December.
- Breakfast with the Grinch: 19, 21 and 22 December.
- Price: £19.95 per child, including a gift; £2.50 per adult. Under-12-months babies can attend free unless they want their own grotto experience and gift.
Make a day of it: Have a go on the arcades, fairground rides an go karting track before you leave, and for more ideas on family days out in Weston-super-Mare, check out these things to do, these best pubs in Weston-super-Mare and the best places to eat in Weston-super-Mare.
9. Story Time with Father Christmas and Mrs Claus at Sheppy’s House of Cider
Where: Sheppy’s House of Cider, Bradford-on-Tone, near Taunton | When: Saturday 5 December 2026, 10am-3.30pm
Sheppy’s is giving the traditional Santa visit a bit of a twist this year. Instead of a grotto, children can settle down in the Old Barn for a festive story with Father Christmas and Mrs Claus.
There are three different sessions throughout the day, each tailored to a particular age group, so little ones get a story that’s suited to them. Siblings can join the same session even if they’re in different age brackets, although the story will naturally be pitched more towards one age group. There’s also the chance to have a piccie taken with Father Christmas afterwards.
Good to know: Take a look at my guide to the best cider farms in Somerset for more cider barn fun.
10. The Ultimate Christmas Workshop and Grotto at Space Adventurers, Taunton
Where: Space Adventurers, TauntonWhen: Selected dates in December 2026
For younger children who love a bit of festive fun but aren’t quite ready to sit quietly in a traditional grotto, Space Adventurers offers Father Christmas festivities with indoor softplay trimmings.
The play centre is transformed into a Christmas workshop, with a festive roadmap guiding families through a series of activities. Children can make reindeer food in wooden Christmas chalets, decorate biscuits, create their own tree decorations and post a letter at the Lapland Post Office.
There’s also an Elf on the Shelf hunt, snowball fights with the elves and a special one-to-one visit with Father Christmas. Parents can share a few details about their child beforehand, helping Santa personalise their meeting. Every child also receives a TY toy, and the experience ends with a snow dance finale.
Good to know: Described as a 2.5-hour Christmas workshop and grotto. Check the Space Adventurers booking page for 2026 dates, session times and prices, as well as details of any dedicated SEND sessions.
Sister soft play, Ocean Adventurers in Cheddar, will also be doing similar: more info and booking.
11. Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury
Where: Glastonbury When: Sunday 6 December 2026 Price: £12.50 per child, plus normal museum admission
Forget the North Pole, Santa is swapping his snowy workshop for the farmhouse kitchen at Somerset Rural Life Museum this December!
Little ones will be greeted by Santa’s elves before being whisked off to the cosy farmhouse kitchen for a special Christmas visit with Father Christmas. There’s time to share their Christmas wishes and, of course, collect a present from the big man himself.
But it’s not just about meeting Santa. Families also get exclusive access to the museum, where there’s a festive trail to follow, with a little treat waiting at the end, plus a Christmas decoration-making activity to take home. A nice way to keep the festive fun going once you’ve said your goodbyes.
Feeling peckish? The Grain Store Café will also be opening exclusively for Santa ticket holders, serving local festive refreshments.
Good to know: Santa tickets cost £12.50 per child. Normal museum admission is also payable on arrival, unless you have a Museum Unlimited Annual Pass. Booking is essential, and you’ll need to arrive in good time for your allocated slot.
12. Santa’s Grotto at the Museum of Somerset, Taunton
Where: The Museum of Somerset, Castle Green, Taunton, TA1 4AA | When: 5, 12, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 December 2026 | Price: £12.50 per child, including a gift.
Santa is setting up his festive grotto at the Museum of Somerset this Christmas. You’ll be greeted by Santa’s friendly elves on arrival, who will guide you through to the grotto. There’s time to have a chat with Father Christmas, share those Christmas wishes and receive a gift to take home.
A little heads-up for 2026: The Museum of Somerset is temporarily closing from 1 December for essential improvement works, but don’t worry, Santa’s visits are still going ahead! The grotto will be taking place in the Almshouse Grotto and Castle House instead. The experience lasts around 5-10 minutes, with one family visiting Santa at a time.
Good to know: The grotto has two steps, so contact the museum ahead of your visit if you need to discuss wheelchair access.
13. Avon Valley Adventure Park Christmas Experience, Keynsham
Where: Avon Valley Adventure Park, Keynsham, Bristol When: 5, 6, 12, 13 and 18-24 December 2026, from 10am
Price: From £25, plus a £4.99 online booking fee.
The Grinch would have a tough time stealing the Christmas magic from Avon Valley Adventure Park. With a Santa’s Grotto experience, festive shows and an array of yuletide activities.
Meet Father Christmas in his grotto for a festive group story and family photograph, before collecting your golden ticket and heading to Santa’s Toy Factory, where every child ticket holder can choose their own present. There’s also gingerbread decorating in Mrs Claus’s Parlour, a ride on the miniature Elf Express and a visit to Santa’s Post Room to send those Christmas wishes. And if you dare, knock on the Grinch’s door and see if you can make his heart grow three sizes!
There are two new live shows this year, too. That’s a Wrap! promises slapstick fun as two rather hapless elves find themselves in a spot of bother with the final Christmas present, while Stardust’s Singing Stables features puppetry, animatronics, festive songs and plenty of surprises. There’s also mulled wine and s’mores available around the park for a little festive sustenance.
14. Open Cockpit Day at The Helicopter Museum
Where: The Helicopter Museum, Weston-super-Mare | When: Sunday 13 December 2026 | Cost: Normal museum admission applies. Adults £15, children aged 3-15 £8.50.
Got little ones who are more interested in helicopter flying power than reindeer? This one’s a bit different from your usual Christmas grotto!
The Helicopter Museum is hosting a Christmas Ho-Ho-H’open Cockpit Day on Sunday 13 December. You’ll be able to climb aboard some seriously impressive machines, including the Hind, Huey, Mi-8 and Gazelle, plus Santa’s very own sleigh.
The Heli-Elves will also be on hand with Christmas arts and crafts to keep little hands busy between exploring the cockpits.
15. Father Christmas at Stourhead
Where: National Trust Stourhead | When: Storytime with Father Christmas on 12, 13 and 19-23 December 2026. The Nutcracker trail runs from 28 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. Cost: £18 for a child and accompanying adult. Additional accompanying adults £5 each. Admission to Stourhead House and Garden is not included.
Stourhead is one of my favourite places to get into the Christmas spirit. Storytime with Father Christmas takes place in the grotto beneath Stourhead House, where children can settle down for a festive story, meet Father Christmas and head home with an early Christmas gift. There’s more to enjoy around the Stableyard too, with games to play and craft activities in the elves’ workshop. I’d leave a little time either side of your grotto slot to make the most of it.
If you’re visiting earlier in the festive season, look out for the Nutcracker-themed family trail around the lake, running from 28 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. Nine mischievous mice have escaped into the garden and it’s up to you to track them down and solve the puzzle.
Good to know: Booking is essential, with timed sessions running throughout the day. The experience is suitable for children aged three and over. Allow around 10 minutes to walk from the main visitor car park to the house, and arrive outside the house at the time on your ticket. The grotto has level access, and you can contact the National Trust if you have specific accessibility requirements
And if you’re planning a few festive outings, Stourhead’s Illuminated trail is one of the best in the biz. Have a look at my guide to Christmas lights in Somerset for more ideas.
16. Christmas Festival & Animal Blessing at Ferne Animal Sanctuary
Where: Ferne Animal Sanctuary Chard, TA20 3DH | Where: Sunday 6th December 2026, 12pm-5pm, Animal blessing in the barn at 4pm.
A Christmas celebration with a few furry and feathered friends thrown into the mix. The Christmas Festival and Animal Blessing near Chard raises funds for Ferne Animal Sanctuary.
Taking place on Sunday 6 December, the afternoon features Blackdown Acapella providing the festive soundtrack and a special story time with Santa for younger visitors. There’s also a pop-up Christmas charity gift shop, a wrapping station, and Perdida Café will be open from 10am.
The animal blessing will take place at 4pm in the barn, offering a chance to celebrate the animals and the sanctuary’s work.
17. Santa grotto, Taunton, Premier Princess Parties
Where: Taunton, TA1 1NZ | When: Wednesday 23rd December 2026 | Price: £20.95 per child.
Step into a fairytale world with Jingles the head elf! Kids can make reindeer dust, enjoy festive treats, and join Santa to find their names on the nice list. Each child will receive a personalised, signed certificate and a special gift under the Christmas tree. Sessions, capped at five children, include time for photos and last 25 minutes. Suitable for ages 1 and up. More info and book tickets here.
18. Santa in the Woods, ROAM, Dillington
When: TBC
Join Santa in the Woods family sessions. ROAM’s woodland events offer outdoor activities, a log-stacle course, slack line, mud kitchens, food cooked over fire, and are very popular so book in advance!
19. Meet Father Christmas at No. 1 Royal Crescent
5-6, 12-13 and 19-20 December 2026
Meet Father Christmas at No. 1 Royal Crescent in Bath. Children can listen to a festive story in the beautifully decorated Servant’s Hall, with each child receiving a gift and a Georgian Christmas cookie recipe card. Advance online booking is essential.
20. Santa at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm
28-29 November to 5-6, 12-13, 19-22 December 2026 | Santa tickets cost £13.95 for ages 2-15 and £11.95 for under-twos. Zoo admission must be purchased separately.
Meet Santa at Noah’s Ark Zoo Faarm in North Somerset, where children can step into Santa’s magical library, share their Christmas wishes and take a festive photo. Every child receives a beautifully-wrapped, age-appropriate book, while children aged two and over also get an eco-friendly Christmas decoration to decorate at home.
Don’t miss the Christmas Market at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm Shop (21-22 November 2026) and more!
All aboard: Santa trains in Somerset
For some children, the train is every bit as exciting as the man in red.
21. Santa Express, West Somerset Railway
Where: Bishops Lydeard or Minehead, depending on the service | When: 28 November and selected dates from 5 to 24 December 2026
All aboard for a proper Somerset Christmas! The West Somerset Railway’s much-loved Santa Express is a lovely festive outing for little train enthusiasts, with a steam-hauled journey through the Quantock countryside in beautifully decorated heritage carriages.
There’ll be festive refreshments waiting at your table, a present from Santa and a special visit from the man himself during the journey. The December services run from Bishops Lydeard to Williton and back, while the 28 November service departs from Minehead.
Missed out on Santa tickets? There are other festive services to enjoy, including the Carol Train from Bishops Lydeard to Williton on 5, 12 and 19 December. You can also book a festive dining experience aboard the Quantock Belle, with a four-course Christmas meal and lovely winter views along the way.
Make a day of it: On 28 and 29 November, Minehead Station is also hosting a Christmas market, with seasonal stalls, handmade gifts and festive treats. Combine a browse around the market with a return steam train journey from Bishops Lydeard. See my guide to Christmas markets in Somerset for more festive dates and ideas.
22. Santa Specials, Yeovil Railway Centre
Where: Yeovil Junction | When: 6, 13, 19, 20 and 23 December 2026
Yeovil Railway Centre Santa Specials combine a journey on a heritage railway with a visit from Father Christmas.
Take a festive train ride to Santa’s workshop, where sacks of presents are waiting to be collected and brought back to the grotto. The elves are on hand to help prepare and decorate the engine, and you might find a few hopping aboard for the journey. Once back, it’s time to step into the winter wonderland grotto and meet Father Christmas!
The service on 6 December is hauled by a heritage diesel locomotive, while the other dates feature a traditional steam locomotive.
Good to know: There’s a special offer of £13 per person for the 6 December service (everyone aged one and over). Prices for other dates vary, so check the website for current availability and booking details before travelling.
Free and low-cost Santa visits in Somerset
23. Santa’s Grotto at Weston Museum, Weston-super-Mare
Where: Weston Museum, Weston-super-Mare When: Saturday 5, 12 and 19 December 2026, 10am-4pm Cost: £5
Weston Museum is getting into the Christmas spirit with its own Santa’s Grotto on three Saturdays in December.
Visits are by timed appointment, with slots throughout the day at 30-minute intervals in the morning and afternoon sessions. Bring your camera, and Santa’s elves will happily help snap a family picture. Booking ahead is essential.
Weston Museum also hosts a separate Christmas Market Weekend on 28 and 29 November, when children can meet Santa for free, although no present is included.
24. Dulverton by Starlight, Exmoor
Where: Dulverton When: Sunday 6 December 2026, 2pm-6.15pm
Exmoor’s charming little town will be getting into the most twinkly of festive spirits with Dulverton by Starlight on 6 December, and it’s completely free to join in.
Stroll between indoor and outdoor winter markets selling local crafts, foodie treats and Christmas gifts, while roaming entertainers bring the streets to life with juggling, tricks and pop-up performances. Join the local choirs for a good old singalong beside the Christmas tree in Bank Square, pop in to see Santa at the Heritage Centre, then round off the festivities with fireworks lighting up the sky above All Saints Church.
25. Taunton WinterFest & Christmas Lights Switch-On
Where: North Street and East Street, Taunton When: Sunday 22 November 2026, 10am-8pm
Taunton is kicking off the Christmas countdown with a full day of festive fun as Taunton WinterFest returns to the town centre on Sunday 22 November. On the festive menu; a Christmas market, funfair rides, live entertainment and festive food and drink, with the big Christmas lights switch-on at 6pm.
And here’s a lovely bonus for families: Santa is setting up a FREE grotto at the Visitor Centre from 12pm-4pm! There’s no need to book ahead, with visits operating on a first-come, first-served basis. I’d get there early, though, as Santa is likely to be rather popular!
Santa at Christmas markets and lights switch-ons
These are less about a traditional grotto ticket and more about spotting Father Christmas while you shop, sing, eat something festive and enjoy the town’s Christmas celebrations.
26. Frome Light the Night
Where: Frome When: Friday 27 November 2026, 6pm-7pm Price: Free to attend; Santa’s Grotto £5 per child
Frome is getting ready for a magical Christmas celebration this year, as its much-loved Light the Night lantern parade returns, marking ten years of this lovely community event.
And what better way to celebrate than with an Alice in Wonderland theme? Expect a procession of wonderfully curious lanterns inspired by the characters and adventures from the classic story, winding their way through the town before the Christmas lights are switched on.
There’s a chance for families to get involved, too. Frome Lanterns is running community workshops in the run-up to the big night, where you can make your own lantern and join the parade. Far more exciting than simply standing on the pavement watching!
If you’re hoping for a visit from Father Christmas, Santa will also be setting up his grotto on North Parade, courtesy of local charity We Hear You. He’ll be there from 4pm-7.30pm, ready to hear Christmas wishes and hand out a gift and sweet treat to visiting children.
Good to know: The lantern parade and town celebrations are free to enjoy. Santa’s Grotto costs £5 per child and must be booked separately, with timed appointments available.
27. Crewkerne Christmas Lights
Where: Crewkerne town centre, South Somerset When: Friday 27 November 2026, 5pm–9.30pm
The South Somerset market town of Crewkerne is getting the Christmas festivities underway with its annual Lighting Up Night. Expect a traditional town-centre Christmas celebration, with festive food and drink, a craft fair, charity stalls and live music.
There’s a chance for everyone to get involved, too. Dress up as elves and join Santa’s parade through the town! Father Christmas will be making an appearance before the big Christmas lights switch-on at 7pm, then heading off to his grotto to meet some of his younger fans.
28. A Posset Christmas Market, Portishead
Where: Portishead High Street When: Saturday 5 December 2026, 2pm-6pm
Portishead High Street is getting into the Christmas spirit with the return of A Posset Christmas Market on Saturday 5 December. A festive afternoon packed with local traders, Christmas shopping, family entertainment and a FREE Santa’s Grotto (donations welcome)!
The High Street will be transformed into a little Christmas celebration, with craft and market stalls alongside independent shops, a small funfair, live entertainment and plenty of food and drink to keep everyone happy.
Good to know: The market runs from 2pm-6pm. Portishead High Street will be closed to vehicles (except emergency vehicles) from approximately 12pm-8pm.
29. Uphill Village Christmas Bazaar
Where: Uphill Village Hall, near Weston-super-Mare When: 5 December 2-5pm
For a bit of good old-fashioned village Christmas spirit, head to Uphill for its annual Christmas Bazaar.
Little ones can look forward to a visit from Father Christmas, while grown-ups can have a rummage through the stalls and try their luck in the Christmas hamper raffle.
30. Glastonbury Frost Fayre
Where: Glastonbury town centre | When: Saturday 28 November 2026, from 10am
Glastonbury really goes to town for its annual Frost Fayre, with the town centre transformed into a festive celebration of Christmas shopping, live music and street entertainment.
The fun starts at 10am, with the Mayor officially opening proceedings at midday. There will be five live stages, buskers and street performers, alongside stalls lining the High Street and surrounding streets, plus indoor Christmas markets in venues around town, including the Town Hall, Abbey House and local churches.
For younger visitors entertained there’s fairground rides and a Children’s World hub at St John’s Church. Look out for Father Frost making an appearance with the Mayor and Town Crier, before the town’s Christmas tree lights are switched on at 5pm.
Good to know: The High Street will be closed to traffic during the event. Park-and-ride arrangements are available, so check the council’s travel information before setting off.
31. Santa on Wheels, Bruton
Where: Bruton High Street | When: Saturday 19 December 2026. Drivers meet at 11am, with the car run setting off at 12 noon. High Street viewing is from 12 noon.
Santa on Wheels sees a convoy of Christmas-decorated cars, with Santa himself along for the ride, bringing a little extra festive cheer to Bruton High Street. Find a spot along the high street and give the drivers a wave as they roll through town.
Good to know: If you’re taking part as a driver, meet at 11am. Spectators should head to Bruton High Street for midday.
32. Santa’s Grotto at Bridgwater Arts Centre
Where: Bridgwater Arts Centre, Bridgwater | When: Saturday 28th November 2026| Price: £5 per child
Santa is popping into Bridgwater Arts Centre as part of its Snowflakes Christmas celebrations. Little ones can meet the man in red, share their Christmas wishes, pose for a festive photo and receive a special gift to take home.
Grotto visits cost £5 per child. Booking slots are available through the Bridgwater Arts Centre website, although walk-ins are also welcome on the day (subject to availability).
Just over the border: more places to see Santa
These aren’t technically in Somerset, but they’re close enough to be worth considering if you’re looking for another festive day out.
33. Santa Specials Avon Valley Railway, Bitton
Where: Bitton, South Gloucestershire: When: Selected dates from 22 November to 24 December 2026 Price: From £18 per person, depending on date and experience
Avon Valley Railway’s Santa Specials involve a 50-minute journey along the heritage railway, with Santa making his way through the carriages to say hello. There’s a mince pie or festive shortbread for the grown-ups, before you return to Bitton Station for a visit to Santa’s grotto. Children receive a Christmas present, and the station lawn will be playing host to the Christmas donkeys again this year.
If you’d like to make the trip feel a little more special, there’s also a Premium Santa Experience in the first-class carriage. This includes extra time with Father Christmas, a photograph and present for each child without the grotto queue, plus hot chocolate (or a mini festive drink for the grown-ups) and a sweet treat.
34. Longleat Santa Train, Wiltshire
Where: Longleat Safari Park, near Warminster, Wiltshire When: Selected Festival of Light dates up to 24 December 2026 | Cost £23.50 per child and £7.50 per adult for the Santa Train, plus Longleat admission.
If you’re heading to Longleat Safari Park for its spectacular Festival of Light, you can add a little extra Christmas magic with a ride on the Santa Train (additional cost, booking required)
Climb aboard the Longleat Express and take a festive journey to North Pole Halt, where children can meet Santa in his woodland grotto. Little passengers with a Santa Train ticket will receive a special Christmas gift, while the grown-ups get a complimentary hot chocolate and mince pie. Not a bad way to spend a winter’s evening!
Good to know: Everyone travelling on the train needs a Santa Train ticket, as well as valid Longleat admission or a membership ticket for the same date. The experience cannot be booked with Twilight tickets. Santa Train slots are popular, so I’d book your date and time as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
Breakfast and supper with Santa in Somerset
If you’d rather combine a festive meal with a visit to Father Christmas, these are worth keeping an eye on.
35. Cadbury Garden Centre, Congresbury
Where: Cadbury Garden Centre, Congresbury, North Somerset | When: Selected dates during the 2026 Christmas season. Check the booking pages for individual dates and times | Cost: Santa’s Grotto is £14.50 per child, plus a £1.50 booking fee. Breakfast and afternoon tea are priced separately.
If your idea of a visit to Santa involves a bit of festive overindulgence and perhaps an excuse to eat cake before lunchtime, Cadbury Garden Centre has you covered! There are three festive experiences to choose from this year: a traditional Santa’s Grotto, Breakfast with Santa or Christmas Afternoon Tea.
Breakfast includes a visit from Santa and his elves, a festive North Pole story and a gift for each child.
Christmas Afternoon Tea comes with sandwiches, homemade cakes and scones with jam and clotted cream. Prosecco is available as an extra (winner).
36. Puxton Park, near Weston-super-Mare
Where: Puxton Park, Hewish, near Weston-super-Mare | When: Selected dates during the 2026 Christmas season. The Teddy Bear Workshop runs on 18, 19, 20, 22 and 23 December, 6pm-8pm. Cost: Prices vary by event.
There’s more than one way to meet Santa at Puxton Park this Christmas, with a trio of festive events planned for 2026.
The Magical Christmas Adventure is the big daytime event, with a visit to Santa’s grotto, a snowy Christmas Tree Village, gingerbread decorating with Mrs Claus and festive crafts in the elves’ workshop. There are seasonal animal shows too, so you can make a full day of it and enjoy the rest of the park while you’re there. Tickets are £12 per child and £12 per adult, on top of park admission.
Santa’s Teddy Bear Workshop is an evening event on selected dates from 18-23 December. Children can choose and make their own cuddly bear, give it a name and take it home, before enjoying a festive family supper, a visit from Santa and a Christmas disco with Disco Steve. Tickets cost £20 per child and £15 per adult.
Gather beneath Puxton’s enormous Christmas tree at the Christmas Light Switch-On on 4 December (5-7pm) for an evening of live music, mince pies and mulled wine, with Santa and Mrs Claus, the Ice Princess and Anna making special appearances. The soft play will also be open. It’s free for members or £5 for the general public.
37. Supper with Santa, Chew Valley Animal Park
Where: Chew Valley Animal Park, Chew Hill, Chew Magna | Bristol, BS40 8SB | When: Wednesday 2, 9 and 16 December, and Saturday 19 December 2026. Guests are seated at 6pm. Price : Children £25, including roast dinner, soft drink and a present from Santa. Adults £22, including roast dinner and a drink.
Fancy a proper roast dinner and a visit from Father Christmas? Chew Valley Animal Park is hosting its Supper with Santa evenings this December, with Mrs Claus and her elf friends joining in the fun too.
Children can enjoy a roast dinner and soft drink before meeting Santa, with every child receiving a Christmas present to take home. The grown-ups aren’t left out either, with a roast dinner and a drink included in their ticket.
Good to know: A 50% deposit is required when booking, with the remaining balance due two weeks before your chosen date. Spaces are still available, but you’ll need to book ahead. To book: Call 07711 893964 to choose your date.
More Somerset Santa events to keep an eye on
A few venues have hosted Christmas events in previous years, but I haven’t found a confirmed 2026 Santa programme for all of them. Rather than give you dates and prices that might be out of date, I’ve kept these here until the organisers publish their details.
- Rich’s Cider Farm: Has previously featured a Christmas Fair grotto, with small timed groups, a gift and a photo.
- Torre Cider Farm, Washford: A Farmer Christmas event has been mentioned in previous years, but 2026 details are not yet confirmed.
Where to see Santa in Somerset: FAQs
When do Santa grottos open in Somerset in 2026?
The first major Christmas experiences begin in November. Wookey’s Winter Wonderland and Christmas at Cheddar start on selected dates from 21 November, while the Grand Pier’s Santa Paws events take place on 27 and 28 November. Most other grottos and Santa trains run on December weekends, with some daily sessions in the run-up to Christmas.
Where can I see Santa for free in Somerset?
Weston Museum’s Christmas Market Weekend on 28 and 29 November includes free visits with Santa. Dulverton by Starlight, Taunton WinterFest, Frome Light the Night and Glastonbury Frost Fayre are also free to attend.
How much does it cost to see Santa in Somerset?
Prices vary considerably. Some smaller grotto visits cost around £5-£15 per child, while larger attractions charge more because the ticket includes a full day out. Remember to check whether adult admission, parking, photographs and gifts are included or charged separately.
Can you see Santa on Christmas Eve in Somerset?
Yes. Wookey’s Winter Wonderland, Christmas at Cheddar, the Grand Pier’s Santa’s Grotto and the West Somerset Railway’s Santa Express all list Christmas Eve dates. Availability can be limited, so check the booking pages rather than assuming there will be tickets left.
Where can I go on a Santa train in Somerset?
The main options are the West Somerset Railway’s Santa Express and Yeovil Railway Centre’s Santa Specials. Just over the border, Avon Valley Railway at Bitton also runs Santa Specials with a steam train journey and a visit to Santa’s grotto.
What’s the best Santa experience for toddlers in Somerset?
For younger children, look for a shorter visit with plenty of hands-on activities and a manageable amount of waiting. Palette & Pasture offers a farm setting, Yeovil Railway Centre combines a train ride with a grotto, and Space Adventurers has a festive workshop with play time included.
Are there dog-friendly Santa experiences in Somerset?
The Grand Pier is running Santa Paws and Grinch Paws on 27 and 28 November. Palette & Pasture is also a dog-friendly venue, although you should check the event arrangements before taking your dog along to the Santa experience.
Are there SEND-friendly Santa visits in Somerset?
Space Adventurers in Taunton has advertised dedicated SEND sessions. Avon Valley Railway can also discuss private compartment arrangements for families who need them. It’s always worth contacting a venue before booking to ask about quieter sessions, queues, lighting and sound.
Make a Christmas weekend of it
Coming from further afield? There are plenty of ways to turn a Santa visit into a festive Somerset weekend.
Wookey Hole, Cheddar and Wells
Stay around the Mendips and combine a visit to Wookey’s Winter Wonderland with Cheddar Gorge or a wander around Wells. The Wookey Hole Magical Sleepover is another option if you fancy making the Christmas experience the main event.
West Somerset Railway, Dunster and Dulverton
Ride the Santa Express, explore Dunster’s castle and cobbled high street, or head further into Exmoor for Dulverton by Starlight. East Quay Watchet is a cool, quirky and fab place to stay.
Have I missed a Somerset Santa grotto?
This guide is updated as organisers release their Christmas 2026 details, but there are always local events that slip under the radar. If you know of a Santa grotto, Christmas market or festive event I’ve missed, let me know in the comments.
You can also follow Down Somerset Way on Instagram and join the Down Somerset Way Facebook group.
Happy Santa hunting!
