visit santa basingstoke

Festival Place Santa Grotto

Festival Place Santa Grotto Open until the 24th December, opposite Go Go Gadget, on the slope up to the Upper Level. Quiet hour is every Sunday, 9am to 10am Visit the Festival Place fabulous festive Santa’s grotto for a truly magical Christmas experience for all the family.

Book tickets online here:   https://www.bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/festivalplace Please note the Grotto will be closed from 1pm-1.40pm each day.

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Where To See Santa In Hampshire 2023

Wondering where to see Santa In Hampshire? There are some great Santa’s Grottos and different experiences with Santa in Hampshire for 2023 if you’re looking for places to see the big man.

Hayling Island Winter Wonderland

The Seafront, Hayling Island, Hampshire, PO11 0AG

Dates: 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 14th – 24th December 2023

Hayling Winter Wonderland has over 40 displays featuring animations and hand crafted scenes. You can even walk through Gingerbread Town. There are over 3 miles of lights and tonnes of snow to create the most magical Christmas experience in Hampshire. 

Visit Father Christmas in his house and receive an early Christmas Gift

More information

Santa At The Brickworks Museum

Swanwick Lane, Bursledon, SO31 7HB

Date: 26th November 2023 – Brickworks Christmas Festival

Date: 10th December 2023 – Children’s Christmas Special

Father Christmas will be taking a couple of days out from his very busy December schedule and arriving at the Brickworks Museum to hand out gifts to his smallest fans. Bring the family, bring the dog and enjoy the magic of Christmas at the Brickworks.

Father Christmas At Marwell Zoo

Dates: December 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th – 23rd 2023

Visit Marwell Zoo on selected dates in December to meet Father Christmas in his festive woodland cabin. Tickets for Father Christmas must be purchased on the night at his cabin and cannot be booked online in advance.

Santa At Milestones Museum

Leisure Park, Churchill Way West, Basingstoke RG22 6PG

Dates: 2nd – 23rd December 2023

See Santa in his festive grotto deep in the heart of Milestones to receive a very special Christmas gift.

Breakfast With Santa At Harvester Restaurants

Dates: 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 21st – 24th December 2023

Why not enjoy breakfast with Santa at your local Harvester. He’s making his way on his sleigh from the North Pole specially to spend time with you and your little ones and he can’t wait to see them and enjoy a breakfast together.

Santa is a busy man, so he’ll be appearing on selected dates in December. Pre-booking is essential.

A Christmas to remember from £9.99 per child and £10.99 on Christmas Eve. Local Harvester restaurants in Hampshire include :-

• The Ham Farm , Twyford Road, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 4LF
• Harvester Swan Centre , Unit L1B, The Swan Centre, Wells Place, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 5FX
• Whiteley Shopping Centre , Unit E1-E2, Whiteley Shopping Centre, Fareham Hampshire, PO15 7LJ
• The Buccaneer , 14 The Avenue, Fareham, Hampshire,  PO14 1NS
• The Stag And Hounds , Winchester Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG22 6HN

Breakfast With Santa At Toby Carvery Restaurants

For just £9.99 (£10.99 on Christmas Eve), your little one’s can meet Father Christmas, and enjoy a cooked breakfast and a juice!

Santa’s sleigh will be visiting on selected dates in December from 9:30am. Pre-booking is essential.

Toby Carvery restaurants in Hampshire include:-

• Bishopstoke , Fair Oak Road, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 6LD
• Hilsea , Copnor Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO3 5HS

Ember Inns Breakfast With Santa

The Village Inn, 67 Botley Road, Southampton, SO31 1AZ

Join Santa for breakfast on selected dates in December. 2022 dates TBA

All children receive a small gift from Santa as well as enjoying their breakfast. The cost is £6.99.

Visit Santa At Dobbies Garden Centre

There are some great opportunities to meet Santa in Hampshire at Dobbies Garden Centres. There’s the traditional Santa’s grotto, as well as a quiet grotto for children with additional needs.

You can also enjoy afternoon tea with Santa in Hampshire and breakfast with Santa too. Also if you wish to include your dog, then there are opportunities to enjoy a Santa Paws visit as well.

Dobbies Garden Centres in Hampshire include

• Havant – Barton’s Road, Havant, Hampshire, PO9 5NA
• Andover – Salisbury Road Andover SP11 7DN
• Cadnam – Southampton Road Cadnam SO40 2NB

Santa Cruises On The Basingstoke Canal

Dates: 28th November – 23rd December 2023

Aboard the boat Rosebud, you’ll take a gentle cruise to the start of the tinsel trail in the woods. Then it’s time to follow the trail to find Father Christmas in his grotto and receive a special gift!

Cruise back to the Centre and head into Santa’s Workshop for Christmas colouring activities, warm drinks & mince pies for all.

Spaces can be purchased either over the phone on 01252 370073 or in person at the Canal Centre.

Christmas Canoe Paddle

Bailey’s Hard, Bailey’s Hard Lane, Beaulieu, Hampshire, SO42 7YF

Dates: 9th, 10th, 16th – 23rd December 2023

Join New Forest Activities for a festive paddle on the Beaulieu River to find Santa this Christmas. Enjoy a 90 minute guided tour of the river’s beautiful nature reserve, with the river offering up some of its more stunning sights on a fresh Winter’s day.

You’ll set sail in stable and safe, Canadian style canoes with the added excitement that you’ll be meeting Santa on the river in his boat full of Christmas gifts! All children will receive a gift from Santa and there’ll be toasty hot chocolate available to keep you warm. Great for all ages from 18 months and upwards, all equipment provided. 

Breakfast With Santa At The Spinnaker Tower

Dates: 2023 TBC

Santa returns to the Spinnaker Tower this Christmas and he’s tucking into breakfast to make sure he’s full of energy for a busy day of festive preparations. Join him and his elves in the Spinnaker Kitchen and Bar for some festive fun!

Families will enjoy a continental style breakfast, served in the spacious Spinnaker Kitchen and Bar overlooking the bustling harbour and hosted by Santa and his merry elves.

Children can write their letters to Santa, sharing their Christmas wish list, before popping it into the post box and chatting with the main man himself. There will be an opportunity for a photo with Santa, and an official souvenir photo can be purchased. All children will receive a gift from Santa.

The additional Toymakers Packs, with the opportunity to build-your-own cuddly toys with heart charm and birth certificate are available on a first come, first served basis. The package includes admission to the Spinnaker Tower, where you will be wowed by the 350° panoramic views and the amazing glass Sky Walk. There are two sessions each day at 9am and 10.30am.

Longdown Activity Farm

Deerleap Ln, Ashurst, Southampton SO40 7EH

Father Christmas will be returning on his tractor sleigh to Longdown Activity Farm. Look out for the Festive Lodge and enter a magical world of twinkling trees, snow and sparkling lights. Father Christmas will be waiting to give the children a jolly wave and an extra special “Ho-ho-ho”.

Father Christmas’ Flying Visit

Hawk Conservatory Trust, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire, SP11 8DY

Date: 21st – 22nd December 2023

Father Christmas and more of his magical team of owls will be stopping at the Trust for this special family event. Find out what mischief Evergreen the Elf is up to and watch the magical owls fly.

Girls and boys will meet Mother Christmas, who will share some freshly-baked treats from her kitchen for the children to enjoy whilst she tells them about the magical owls.

Father Christmas’ elves will have a special present to give out to every good girl and boy too!

Finkley Down Farm Father Christmas

Dates: 2nd – 24th December 2023

Magical Christmas tickets include all-day entry to the farm. Your Christmas journey starts at Mother Christmas’ Kitchen before you make your reindeer food, collect your Christmas passport and so much more.

Santa At Paultons Park

Back for 2023 there’s also the chance to visit Santa’s Grotto. Book your timed slot with your park tickets and every child will receive a cuddly plush toy in a gift bag, along with a complimentary photograph.

Santa Specials On Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway

Dates: 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th December 2023

Your Santa train ride around the park includes a visit Santa when you return. All the children will receive a present from Santa and everyone will get refreshments from the cafe.

Meet Santa In John Lewis

There is magic in the air at John Lewis & Partners Southampton this Christmas. They’re with LEGO to make sure the whole family can experience the magic of Christmas in store at John Lewis. Each child will receive a wonderful Lego or Duplo gift and have the option to buy a photo taken with Santa.

Don’t forget to check out these Christmas events in Hampshire as well as all the great Christmas markets in Hampshire.

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10 Things to do in Basingstoke This Christmas

I love visiting Basingstoke.  It’s one of the UK’s oldest market towns and I love getting some Christmas shopping done in Festival Place.  But there are plenty of things to do in Basingstoke this Christmas to get you feeling festive.

1 Tire The Kids Out at Flipout

I’m not sure my post child birth pelvic floor is up to the job of trampolining, but I know my small people, and to be fair the husband, would love it.  Flipout Basingstoke is opening soon in Festival Place.  What better bribe to get the kids through Christmas shopping!

As well as the trampolines, Flip Out Basingstoke will have:

• Large 3-zone indoor Ninja Assault Course with cutting edge RFID technology (first of it’s kind in England)  Big would absolutely love this.
• 10 interactive climbing walls
• 2 cyber tower courses
• Total wipeout machine
• Stunt boxes and trick park (including a full size Lamborghini)
• Battle beams
• A 28ft drop super slide
• Basketball dunk zone
• Soft play area

2 Watch Santa’s Parade

Don’t miss the hugely entertaining Santa’s parade on Sunday 3rd December.  Starting in Porchester Square and heading to Festival Square, the parade is lead by Father Christmas himself along with some of his friends.  A street theatre event not to be missed.

3 Visit Santa’s Grotto 

Experience magical talking trees and Rudolfs naughty-or-nice-o-metre as you go on an enchanting woodland walk before meeting the big man in red.  There’s even an augmented reality that you can access via your smart phone for a really interactive experience.  The grotto is open from 18th November until the 24th December. It costs £4 per child and they get a little gift.

One of Santa’s cheekier elves!

4 Explore the Christmas Market’s

There’s nothing like a festive market to get you in the Christmas spirit.  With a gorgeous selection of food, drinks and gifts you’ll find the perfect gift you’ve been looking for.  This year the Basingstoke Christmas market is open from the 22nd November until the New Year.

5 Head for an Exciting Escape 

Exciting Escapes is a really fun night out, especially with a group of friends.  It’s an escape room that you have 60 minutes to solve the mystery.  A bit like the Crystal maze.  There are a few different rooms to choose from, each offering a different experience.  You can even look at booking the venue for your Christmas party.  They also offer gift vouchers if you wanted to give it as a Christmas present.  Find out more at excitingescapes.co.uk

6 Go Back in Time at Milestones Museum

Sep back in time at Milestones toy museum.  Walk around historic streets, visit the 1940’s sweet shop.  On the 9th and 10th of December there is a traditional Victorian market with a Santa’s grotto and the Basingstoke Male choir creating that festive feeling.  Big visited Milestones last year and loved it.  A family ticket for up to two adults and three children is £35.  What makes this great value is that you pay once and can return as many times as you like for a whole year.  Visit Hampshire Cultural Trust for more information and upcoming events.

7 Enjoy a Night Away

We enjoyed a complimentary stay at the Apollo Hotel .  It’s everything you need for a relaxing night away complete with gym, pool and spa.  We had a studio room which had a lounge are and bedroom.  I always think rooms with separate ares are fantastic when you are staying with kids as it means you have somewhere to vacate to when they go to sleep.  The lounge area had a sofa bed.  The bathroom also had a massive shower which always adds a luxury feel for me.  A studio room like ours was £119 for the night including breakfast.  Double bedrooms are available from £70.  And overseas visitors can ship their luggage ahead of time.

8 Taste a Festive Menu

You are spoilt for choice with places to eat in Festival place, but it’s hard to walk past the Festival Street kitchen and resist the smell.

Seriously, if this picture had smelovision you would be salivating right now.  We had the Caribbean curry and it was honestly the best curry I have ever had.  Just thinking about makes me want to go back to the Street Kitchen and get some.  The only problem was the hugely generous portions, and that was only a problem because I fancied a lie down after rather than continue Christmas shopping!  If you are in the area check out the Festival Street kitchen .  

We had our evening meal at Pizza Express .  I love this restaurant for casual dinning.  It always has a family friendly feel, fantastic service and great food.  And I can never resist the polenta chips.  They normally offer a festive menu too, although I think we were a bit too early for that.  We were still spoilt for choice though!

9 Take in a Show

There is so much to see this festive season.  From Pantomimes, to classics, to something for the little ones. 

The Anvil has the classic Peter Pan with stars such as Andrew Agnew, better known as PC Plum  from Cbeebies Balamory and Gary Turner from Emmerdale and Hollyoaks.

The Haymarket Theatre has a production of The Night Before Christmas from the 8th until the 10th December.  Followed by The Charles Dickens classic A Christmas Carol from the 12th until the 13th December.

The Proteus theatre has an interactive show aimed at pre-school children called How Many Sleeps until Christmas from the 14th until the 24th December.

10 Get The Job Done 

Festival Place and the malls is the place to go for all of your Christmas shopping.  With high street brands and pop up stores you will be sure to find the perfect gift for even the hardest person to buy for.  Personally I think late night shopping feels more festive with the twinkling lights.

chocolates that are too good to eat!

Smiggle , the shop where it’s ok to go round sniffing stuff! 

One of the unexpected highlights of our trip to Basingstoke was a tasting session in Whittards .  Taylor our host was brilliantly enthusiastic and knowledgeable.  We tried everything from apple infused teas, festive hot chocolate and chai.  It was all amazing, apart from the chai.  I know it’s all the rage at the moment, but it tasted like porridge!  Then again I have never been one to like things that are en vogue.  Olives being a prime example.  However I cannot recommend their mint hot chocolate enough.  I love a mint hot choc and this was the best one I have tasted by far.    

We shopped until we dropped, although sadly I couldn’t convince the husband to purchase these guys from TK Maxx

If you get a little carried away with your Christmas shopping and find you are running out of arms to carry it all Festival Place have lockers where you can store all your shopping, which saves you time wandering around the car park looking for your car which you seem to have lost.  True story!

There’s so much to do in Basingstoke this Christmas.  We had a great weekend there.

We were working with In Basingstoke on this post and received complimentarty meals and accomodation.  All views are my own.

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Santa's Grottos in Basingstoke for 2024

View all Santa's Grottos in Basingstoke for 2024. As Christmas approaches get into the festive spirit with a visit to a local Santa's Grotto! Check out our growing list of grottos in Basingstoke below.

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Christmas at Festival Place including Santa visits

Things To Do In Basingstoke This Christmas

Somehow, we’re already back in the festive season and Christmas is fast-approaching. Christmas 2020 wasn’t under the best conditions, so we’re here to help you make the most of winter 2021, with suggestions for some of the best things to do in Basingstoke this Christmas.

Whether it’s buying your Christmas tree from local legends or watching the annual Santa Parade with the whole family, get your calendar at the ready because it’ll be full of merry events by the time you’ve finished reading this guide.

Buy a local Christmas tree

First up, starting from 23 rd November, we’ll be supporting a Basingstoke tradition and offering the use of our car park off Church Lane for a local family to sell their beautiful Christmas trees. Roger Ayres and his family have been selling their trees in Basingstoke for over four decades, and we’re very happy to be involved this year. They’ll be selling trees all the way up to the 18 th December, so come along to the Worting House car park and find the perfect tree for your house, supporting a local business and getting in the festive spirit at the same time.

Visit a Christmas Fayre

Next, as we move towards the end of November and Christmas gets ever closer, we’ve got another event that’ll help get you in the spirit. More Of The Good Stuff , the courtyard café at Worting House, will be hosting a small Christmas Fayre throughout the day on Sunday 21st November, with more than 10 stalls selling handmade Christmas gifts, decorations, treats, and more from local artists, business owners, and artisans. It’s a great way to start filling your stockings before the big Christmas rush, and you’ll get to check out our beautiful grounds at the same time.

Handmake a Christmas wreath

If you’re looking for something a little bit different to do this year, what about getting crafty and creating your own luxury Christmas wreath. Hosted at Laura Fisher Illustrations, a local artist is holding a one-off wreath-making workshop , where you’re get to create your very own wreath using local foliage, luxury decorations, and eco-friendly techniques. Everything you need is provided for you, so all you need to do is turn up and have some fun. It’s going to be held on the 8 th December and there are just 12 available spaces in the workshop, so book yourself in early if you want to attend.

Test yourself with a quiz

Next, another one from our friends at More Of The Good Stuff, there’s a regular curry and quiz night held on the second Thursday of every month, with the next one coming up on Thursday 11 th December. These quiz nights typically run from 6:30pm to 10:15pm and are a great way to spice up your mid-week. Tables can get booked up quickly, so if you’re interested in this event or a future instalment, book early to avoid disappointment!

Take the kids to Santa’s Grotto

One for the families of Basingstoke – Festival Place is hosting this year’s Santa’s Grotto in Basingstoke, running all the way up until Christmas Eve. The Grotto is on the upper level of Festival Place, just opposite Costa Coffee. Tickets are available for just £5 per child, and you can book your slot in advance here . Each slot is for up to four children, so all of your kids can go in together for a magical time meeting Santa Claus.

Attend a Christmas Day service

And, finally, on the big day itself, you can attend one of the several Christmas Day services being held in venues across Basingstoke. Two particular services to look into are the ones being held at Buckskin Evangelical Church and Hope Community Church , where there’ll be carols, games, and plenty of other fun activities for kids to get involved with. Attending a Christmas Day service is a great way to introduce a new tradition to the most joyous day of the year, and there are plenty to choose from in Basingstoke.

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Fri, 25 Nov

Basingstoke Canal Authority

Basingstoke Canal Santa Cruises

See below for details

Time & Location

25 Nov 2022, 00:01 – 23 Dec 2022, 23:59

Basingstoke Canal Authority, Canal Centre, Mytchett Pl Rd, Mytchett, Camberley GU16 6DD, UK

Further Info

EXCITING NEWS - Santa Cruises 2022!

We have received confirmation direct from Father Christmas' elves that Father Christmas will be returning to the Canal Centre this year!

Spaces go on sale at 9am on MONDAY 26th SEPTEMBER.

All details (dates, times and prices) can be found on our web site down below.

https://www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/countryparks/basingstokecanal/santacruises

Please read all information carefully before you queue up or pick up the phone.

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Meet the basingstoke santa swapping his sleigh for a motorbike this christmas, where to see santa on his motorbike in basingstoke this year.

SANTA Claus has swapped his sleigh for a motorbike to spread festive cheer in Basingstoke this Christmas.

Keith Longman, 55, launched Santa on a Bike in 2022 to spread the Christmas spirit in his hometown after purchasing a large number of bubbles and soft toys in 2020 for a show, which was ultimately cancelled due to Covid-19.

Keith said: “I wanted to do something independent in my hometown, so I thought why not make my bike festive, dress up as Santa and hand out bubbles and teddies to children to bring smiles and cheer.”

READ MORE:  Popular much-loved coffee shop in Basingstoke town centre under new ownership

He is also the founder of Hampshire motorcycle group HBB, which runs events including organised rides, as well as fundraising for several charities.

This year Keith is fundraising for Basingstoke-based charity Spotlight UK, which runs events and other free activities for children and young people with a disability or life-limiting condition as well as a range of other services.

He added: “It’s been so well received, and because of that, I am planning to make the event an annual occurrence, where I pick a local charity and hopefully raise some money.”

Keith drives around Basingstoke, stopping at supermarkets on his way, as well as offering visits to nurseries, schools, and families which he charges £5 for. The money goes towards the large toys he buys for private visits, as well as donating £3 to Spotlight UK.

SEE ALSO:  Santa and his elves touring Basingstoke in sleigh - full list of locations announced

“I like to make it a bit jokey, when I visit a school, I might showcase a dance that the elves have taught me along to Christmas music, which is played from my bike,” says Keith.

He posts about his adventures as Santa on the Facebook group, Spotted Basingstoke, sharing messages from children and parents.

“I couldn’t believe the response; my inbox is going berserk,” he added.

Keith says he offers Santa on a Bike as an alternative to children who want to speak to Santa but may be unable to visit a grotto.

To book a visit from Santa on a bike, or keep up with his adventures, visit facebook.com/keith.longman.7 .

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You are here > Home > Ideas & Inspiration > Blog > Top 10 things to do in Basingstoke

Top 10 things to do in Basingstoke

As one of Hampshire’s biggest towns, there’s lots more to Basingstoke than meets the eye.

Here, we pick our top 10 things to do in Basingstoke:

Basingstoke Leisure Park

No visit to Basingstoke is complete without a visit to the Basingstoke Leisure Park ! There are lots of different activities to try, why not whiz your way around the rapids at the Basingstoke Aquadrome , or try your ice skating skills at Planet Ice. Try a spot of indoor skydiving or enjoy a family game of bowling at Hollywood Bowl. 

Milestones Museum

Step back into days gone past on a trip to Milestones Museum . Situated next to Basingstoke Leisure Park, you can explore this indoor museum’s various buildings, including the ever-popular sweet shop. Get your ration book and choose your favourites!  Visitors young and old will also love the penny arcade. The museum regularly hosts events during the school holidays, so do keep an eye on what’s on. 

Festival Place

Basingstoke’s largest shopping centre, Festival Place is home to lots of the big brands such as M&S and Next. Here, you’ll also find a cinema and a good selection of restaurants including Pizza Express and other familiar names. Festival Place has a large car park and is a short walk from Basingstoke Railway Station. 

Adjacent to Festival Place, The Anvil is Basingstoke’s biggest concert and arts venue. This prestigious concert hall offers a varied programme of classical, jazz, country, folk and popular music that attracts and delights audiences from far and wide. It is also a popular comedy venue with big acts including Dara O Briain, Jack Whitehall and Ruby Wax all performing here. 

Vemillion 

Sample some plant-based fare at Vemillion café in Chineham Shopping Centre. From hearty breakfast choices to delicious main meals like sandwiches, jacket potatoes, and Buddha bowls, there is plenty to choose from. 

The Willis Museum & Sainsbury Gallery

Discover Basingstoke & Deane’s rich history by heading to The Willis Museum . Here, you can find out about archaeological findings and history right up until modern day. Look out for touring exhibitions and events throughout the year. 

A National Trust property on the outskirts of Basingstoke, The Vyne is a red-bricked Tudor mansion built in the 16th century. Re-modelled in the 17th century to its present day configuration, The Vyne holds a fascinating history which included notable guests such as Jane Austen.  The house is set in 13 acres of beautiful, relaxing gardens and has its own tea room. 

Basing House

Explore the nationally important ruins of Basing House , once the largest private house in Tudor England. Come along and find out more about the history of this fascinating site with audio tours available to download in advance of your visit to aid your discovery.  Enjoy a picnic in the re-created Jacobean garden, and come along to the many events and activities held throughout the year, including open air theatre, dig pits, re-enactments and a December Christmas market.

Basingstoke Miniature Railway

Hop aboard a miniature train at one of Basingstoke and District Model Engineering Society’s public running days . Usually held once a month during the spring-autumn, these events are popular with all ages. Keep an eye on special steam events and Halloween-themed trains too.  Atmosphere Trampoline Park

Bounce away any excess energy at Atmosphere Trampoline Park, on the outskirts of Basingstoke. With under 5s sessions, open sessions and fun events such as the Friday Night Space Rave, there’s lots of fun to be had.  Discover places to stay in Basingstoke Find out more about Basingstoke Find other things to do in Basingstoke

Whether you are looking to spend the day or a quick time out, Basingstoke Leisure Park is packed with activities to enjoy leisure time on your own or with family and friends.

Basingstoke Aquadrome is a state of the art leisure facility with 3 swimming pools which incorporate attractions for every type of swimmer. The 25 metre pool offers fitness swimmers an unrivaled facility. The 20 metre pool has a moveable floor allowing a whole spectrum of activities to take place and the leisure lagoon has 3 super flume rides, a rapid river, bubble pools, water cannons, a toddler area and other features.

Experience the amazing sensation of flying with iFly Indoor Skydiving! Soar like a bird in the 14ft (4.3m) diameter, super-fast wind tunnel.

From cobbled streets to a seaside pier, teddy bears, vintage vehicles, an operating pub, sweet shop and more, there is so much for everyone to see, do and enjoy at Milestones, Hampshire’s museum of living history!

With some of the finest acoustics in the country, The Anvil has firmly established itself as one of the South's leading venues for high quality live music.

Vemillion is a café in Basingstoke, and it proudly holds the title of being the first and only completely plant-based café in the area. With a strong focus on sustainability, Vemillion strives to become the most eco-friendly café in Hampshire. One of the ways they achieve this is through their use of compostable packaging, moving away from harmful single-use plastics. Their mission is clear - to serve great food without costing the planet.

At the Willis Museum you will discover Basingstoke and Deane’s past, from the rich archaeological heritage beneath our feet right up to the modern day. Throughout the year, a programme of touring exhibitions, as well as fun events, workshops and activities for all the family to enjoy.

The Vyne is a warm red-bricked Tudor mansion built in the 16th century for Lord Sandys, Henry VIII's Lord Chamberlain, which later passed into the hands of the Chute family, who cared for the house and estate for over 300 years. It was remodelled to its present configuration in the mid-17th century.

Unearth the amazing stories of Basing House, the nationally important historical ruins of the largest private house in Tudor England which suffered at the hands of Oliver Cromwell during the English Civil War.

The Basingstoke & District Model Engineering Society was established in 1975, by a small group of like-minded individuals. We are now a well-established model engineering club with facilities to run steam locomotives, traction engines and scale rolling stock. Members of the public are able to ride on the railway on the first Sunday of most months from 11am to 4pm. See our website for details of public running days at our club track at the Viables Craft Centre.

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Santa's grottos in Hampshire and places for children to meet Father Christmas 2021

Where you can meet Santa this Christmas this year and how to book tickets

• 04:30, 31 OCT 2021

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Christmas events get booked up months in advance, especially visits to to see Santa.

With less than two months to go until the winter holidays, HampshireLive has made a list of places where you can take your children to meet Father Christmas.

From shopping centres to animal parks, festive hot spots are dotted across the county in the run up to December 25.

READ MORE: The magical Christmas steam train trip in Hampshire you’ll want to go on

With many events cancelled last year as a result of the Covid pandemic, it's worth booking early to avoid disappointment.

While most events will not have actual 'grottos' to go inside, families should expect a few changes to the conventional meet and greet event as attractions continue to follow health and safety advice to prevent the spread of the virus.

We've included some wonderful sites just outside the area if you're planning a fun family day out a bit further afield.

Longdown Activity Farm

Once again, Father Christmas will be returning on his tractor sleigh to settle into his comfy chair in his Festive Lodge at Longdown Activity Farm.

The farm will be open from 10am to 4pm for guests to enjoy a full schedule of animal activities, and then pop into see Father Christmas.

Dates: November 26-29, December 3-6, December 10-13 and December 17-23.

Price: There is no additional charge to our usual admissions to see Father Christmas in his Festive Lodge.

Book: Visit longdownfarm.co.uk

Address: Deerleap Lane, Ashurst, Southampton, SO40 7EH.

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Finkley Down

On arrival to the farm, children will collect their Christmas Passport which allows them to take part in activities such as making reindeer food and decorating a treat.

They will also collect a letter to send to Father Christmas via the Intergalactic Post Box using a special golden ball. Each child will go up individually to meet Father Christmas

The time selected on a booking is the time the Christmas Journey starts at Mother Christmas’ Kitchen. Guests should arrive at the farm at least 15 minutes before.

Dates: Selected dates from December 4 to 24.

Price: Adult £12.95 and child (including Christmas Passport) £32.95. Tickets include all-day entry to the farm from 9.50am.

Book: Visit finkleydownfarm.co.uk/events/magical-christmas .

Address: North Way, Andover, SP11 6NF.

Tapnell Farm Park

The park's award-winning Christmas event returns for 2021 with new characters and adventures, plus a chance to meet Santa.

The all weather experience is 45-minutes long and is led by a team of trained elves who will fully immerse guests in the wonderment of Christmas. There will be storytelling and interactive puzzles to solve, plus lots of amazing scenery too.

Dates: Selected dates from December 2 to 23.

Price: Adult £17, child £25 (age 2-16) and under 2 £7. Child entry includes a gift. Includes farm park entry.

Book: Visit tapnellfarm.com

Address: Newport Road, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO41 0YJ.

Standen House and Garden

This Christmas younger visitors can join a storytelling session in a woodland grotto at this National Trust site. After a walk through the wintery garden, boys and girls can settle down in the grotto and enjoy a Christmas story, and after meet Santa and receive a small present and a cup of hot chocolate.

Dates: Four sessions per day, 9-10am, 10-11am, 11.30-12.30pm and 12.30-1.30pm.

Price: Child £10. This ticket is not valid for entry to the property, so all attending will need to purchase a standard entry ticket on the day, unless you are a National Trust member. Only children visiting Santa need an event ticket.

Book: Call 0344 2491895 or visit nationaltrust.org.uk .

Address: West Hoathly Road, East Grinstead, RH19 4NE.

Paultons Park

Christmas at Paultons will feature magical illuminations, Peppa and George in their seasonal outfits, Christmas characters, a Christmas show featuring Father Christmas and of course, selected rides and attractions.

Price: £33.50 each. Children under 1m tall go free. Christmas events are included in a standard Paultons admission ticket.

Dates: Selected dates from December 4 to 23.

Book: Visit paultonspark.co.uk/christmas .

Address: Ower, Romsey, The New Forest, SO51 6AL.

• Marwell Zoo

Father Christmas will be making some special appearances at the zoo on weekends and select dates in December.

He will settle into his comfy chair at festive scenes outside Café Graze and inside the zoo gift shop ready to say hello and receive children's Christmas letters.

It will not be a traditional grotto or meet and greet event, however guests are welcome to take photographs.

Price: Adult £19 and children £15.50 (under 2 free). Christmas events are included in a standard Marwell Zoo admission ticket.

Dates: December 4, 5, 11, 12, 18 and 23.

Book: Visit marwell.org.uk.

Address: Thompsons Lane, Winchester, SO21 1JH.

Youngsters can meet Santa among the shimmering lights, get nose-to-nose with cuddly huskies in an Ice Cave, stroll through a twinkling Tunnel of Lights, and marvel at a spectacular 24ft Christmas tree at the animal park, whilst mums and dads enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie.

Families will need to book Santa tickets online in advance.

Price: Visits to Santa cost £17.50 per person, this includes a personal meeting with him, photo opportunity and a Christmas gift. Entry into the Park is not included in your Santa ticket and you will need to buy separate entry tickets for your admission to Drusillas.

Dates: Selected dates from November 20 to December 23.

Book: Visit drusillas.co.uk .

Address: Alfriston Road, East Sussex, BN26 5QS.

Enjoy the magic of the festive season by visiting Father Christmas in his woodland grotto.

Board the Santa Train at Longleat Central Station and be whisked away on a winter adventure to the North Pole Halt to meet the man himself.

Adults can enjoy a delicious hot chocolate and festive mince pie while children will receive a special Christmas gift.

Price: £6 adult and £19.95 child.

Dates: November 6 to December 24.

Book: Visit longleat.co.uk/ticket/santa-train-ticket .

Address: Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW.

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Family fun throughout the Easter holidays!

Kickstart your spring at Milestones, where Bun, Ted and friends embark on a time-travelling adventure throughout the Easter holidays! 

We are open every day of the school holidays, including bank holidays, 10am - 4.45pm!

Give the gift of arts and heritage

Looking for the perfect present? Gift a Hampshire Cultural Trust ticket gift e-voucher!

These vouchers can be used to buy tickets for exhibitions, shows, events and activities at any of HCT's venues, as well as for entry tickets to our museums and attractions - including Milestones Museum!

Available for redemption at any paid Hampshire Cultural Trust venue, why not treat your loved one to an annual ticket for Milestones Museum ?

Milestones Needs You!

Help create memories for our visitors, make friends and learn new skills as a Milestones volunteer.

Teach key skills as a Make Do and Mend leader, clock on as a Victorian or WWII policeman, flog fruit and veg as an authentic market trader or even hang your bloomers out to dry as a Victorian housewife! 

Immerse yourself in the past at Milestones, Hampshire’s museum of living history.

What to see and do

what to see and do

• Life in Hampshire past

Find out what life used to be like in Hampshire as you stroll along the museum’s cobbled streets and travel through time from the age of the Victorians to the 1930s, 1940s and beyond.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

Vintage Vehicles

Explore our unique collection of vintage vehicles which includes examples from Hampshire’s big three manufacturers: Taskers of Andover and Wallis & Steevens and Thornycroft, both of Basingstoke.

Mr Simpson's Teddy Bear Museum

With over 260 bears on display, learn all about the history of teddy bears, as well as the fascinating story of Mr Simpson and his amazing collection of teddy bears.

Milestones Pier and Penny Arcade

Experience the unique Milestones Pier complete with traditional penny arcade! Have a go on vintage amusement machines, try your hand at the claw grab to win a prize, laugh at your friends in the funfair mirrors and take a snap in the seaside scenes.

"The immersive Victorian-style streets create an atmosphere that transports you back in time. It's truly remarkable how you can suspend your disbelief and feel like you're stepping into Hampshire's past. The experience is worth every penny and moment spent, and the café offers a perfectly adequate dining option as well." Mark S, TripAdvisor

Milestones Museum

Get in touch.

Leisure Park, Churchill Way West, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Tel: 01256 639550

Monday CLOSED Tuesday - Sunday 10:00 –16:45

Milestones is closed on Mondays, excluding school holidays and bank holidays.

Please note last admission to the museum is 16:00, and our café also closes at 16:00.

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