For a child, no Christmas is complete without having the chance to meet Santa in person and tell him what they want for Christmas. Here’s our guide to the best Santa’s grottos in Scotland, where you’ll find plenty of things to see and do to make the experience memorable for all ages.
4. Believe in Santa at M&D’s
Kids can visit Santa as part of M&D Theme Park’s Magical Wonderland event. It’s known for being the largest grotto in Scotland, so it’s always in high demand. Kids can have their own visit to Santa in person at number 25 Evergreen Drive, where they’ll get a special present. After visiting Santa, there are various animated scenes to take in around the park, each one telling the magical story of Christmas.
There’s also festive storytelling in the indoor theatre, with a 20 minute performance. The whole family will enjoy a skate on the magical outdoor ice rink, and a ride on the Italian carousel. There’s also the chance to ride the Christmas Santa train and visit a herd of real life reindeer. Don’t forget to browse the festive market where you can pick up toys and treats, and even visit a Bavarian bar where the grown-ups can treat themselves to an aperitif.
Pricing:
Children under the age of one go free. Prices range from £12.95 per child, to £6.50 per adult. There is also the chance to purchase hot churros or hot chocolate for £5.00/£4.50.
Dates:
6th, 7th, 8th, 13th of December
Location:
Strathclyde Country Park, Bellshill, Motherwell, ML1 3RT
3. Santa’s Woodland Experience, Balfron Station, Stirlingshire
Escape to Scotland’s leading outdoor woodland venue and watch their faces light up with delight as you enjoy an interactive Santa’s grotto experience at North Ballochruin Farm. Take a tractor ride around the farm, where you’ll get to see plenty of woodland friends along the way as you take in the countryside views.
When you arrive at Santa’s cabin, he’ll greet you and welcome you in himself. Children will be able to tell Santa what they’d really like for Christmas, and will receive a gift from Santa – whether they’ve been naughty or nice! After visiting Santa, take a tractor ride to the food shed where hot food and tea/coffee are available. Water and squash is freely available for children.
Pricing:
Costs range from £24 for a child, to £10 for an adult and £10 for an infant (with free gift).
Dates:
29th November – 24th December
Location:
North Ballochruin Farm, Balfron Station, G63 0LE
2. Santa’s Workshop at Bon Accord
Christmas is all about giving and charity, so it’s nice to know that a visit to the Bon Accord Santa’s grotto is a donation to the Archie Foundation charity, with the event donating 100% of its proceedings to the foundation. The Archie Foundation Charity helps provide support and equipment to sick children in hospital.
As of 12th November 2022, you and your family can drop in to give Santa a visit at his magical grotto. His team of elves will give little ones a present, and children can tell Santa what they are wishing for for Christmas. There will also be an opportunity to purchase professionally-taken photos of your visit.
Pricing:
Adults go free. Tickets per child are £9.99 each, including a gift. Booking fees apply.
Dates:
9th November – 24th December
Location:
25 George St, Aberdeen, AB25 1HZ
1. Meet Santa at Almond Valley
Topping our list of the best Santa’s grottos in Scotland is Almond Valley’s “Meet Santa” event. Kids will get the chance to meet Santa in his cosy Christmas cottage at Almond Valley park. Santa’s visits take place in the tearoom, where kids of all ages can come along with parents and chat to Santa about everything Christmas and what is on their list. They’ll also receive a wrapped Christmas present.
As darkness falls, Almond Valley comes to life and sparkles with glittering lights all around. Visit the orchard barn for tasty Christmas nibbles and drinks, explore the play areas, or meet the animals in the farm area, which is open until 5pm. There’s also a special supper menu in the tearoom after dark, should you want to fuel up before your trip back home.
Pricing:
Tickets are £10 per child to meet Santa, which must be booked in advance online. You’ll also need to purchase site admission tickets.
Dates:
6th, 7th, 8th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd & 24th December
Location:
37 Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR
