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Family fun across North West England

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Santa’s Grotto Lancashire 2023

There are loads of places to take the kids to see Father Christmas in Lancashire. I’ve compiled this list of all the Santa’s Grotto Lancashire 2023 that I can find. This post is part of a series of posts on Where to see Father Christmas in the North West. This post is part of a series of posts on Where to see Santa North West England.

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I’ve done my best to accurately add the details of all these events and keep them up to date but I strongly advise you to click through and check on the organiser’s website to ensure the dates and times have not changed. Some of these events require pre-booking so I’d recommend you do that as soon as you decide you want to in order to avoid disappointment.

If you know of any events I need to add then please get in touch with me at [email protected]

If you love finding new family days out and events in the North West then you need to follow me on Facebook or Instagram . If you use Facebook you might like to join my Family Days out North West group .

Farmer Christmas walking adventure, Farmer Ted’s Adventure Farm, Ormskirk  – 2023 tickets on sale now

When – 25th November – 23rd December 2023

Start in the animal barn and then walk through Santa’s winter wonderland. Along the journey, you’ll enjoy Christmas story time, a Christmassy short film, meet Father Christmas, enjoy the shops on elf street, help make reindeer food, decorate gingerbread biscuits, take part in an elf workshop, meet the reindeer and an animated Christmas reindeer and donkey show.

Book here – Farmer Christmas

Tickets from £16.75 for adults, £27.75 for children over 1 years of age

Christmas at Mrs Dowson’s – book now for 2023

When – 2nd, 3rd, 16th, 17th and 23rd December 2023

Christmas at the farm is an immersive adventure based on the original magical Father Christmas. It includes an Elf workshop, Mrs Christmas’ kitchen, singing reindeer, Santa’s grotto and make a bear experiences.

Cost – From – Adults and children over 13 – £12.79, Children from 12 months -12 years – £24.95. Under 12months, free

Find out more when the details are released here – Christmas 2023 | Mrs Dowsons Farm

Christmas Grotto Wonderland, Blackpool Pleasure Beach – tickets for 2023 on sale now

When – 25th November to 24th December 2023

Make your way through our Christmas Grotto where you will meet Miss Christmas Eve who will give children a ‘Do It Yourself’ bauble-making kit, and a brief description of how to put it together.

Then as you pass Santa’s reindeer don’t forget to collect your ‘Magic Reindeer Food’ & a ‘Magic Key’ so Santa can leave you presents even if you don’t have a chimney! Then after you have travelled through the Grotto you can stroll along Heidi Strasse and enjoy our Christmas-themed games (additional cost).

Inlcudes a ride on Alice in Wonderland. You can add on tickets to go ice skating before or after too (additional cost).

Cost – from £16.99 per child (2 accompanying adults allowed)

Book here – Christmas Grotto – Blackpool Pleasure Beach

East Lancashire Railway Santa specials – 2023 tickets on sale now

When – 25, 26 November, 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 20-24 December 2023

Take a steam train trip with a host of happy elves and of course, the big man himself, Father Christmas!

Begin the adventure at Bury Bolton Street Station where you will journey through a gorgeously decorated winter wonderland. Say hello to Mrs Clause and the talking Christmas Tree, and maybe even stop for a quick singalong with our carol singing choir of polar bears, before boarding your train.

Once you’re settled into your seat, a steam train will haul you to Rawtenstall and back on an approximately 80-minute round trip. Along the way the festive fun continues as you meet your favourite Christmas characters and get the chance to belt out a couple of festive classics with the brass band. Whilst travelling, Santa himself will visit your carriage with a gift for every little one, and there will be plenty of time to have a chat with him and take a Santa selfie or two.

Grown-ups can look forward to mince pies and a festive tipple or soft drink. For the children there will be a Fruit Shoot, chocolate and an activity pack.

Tickets for this Christmas event always sell fast!

Book here * – Santa specials

Tickets from £23 – £39 per adult, £22.50 -£38.50 for children

Christmas grotto at Greenlands farm village – book now for 2023

When – 18th November – 24th December 2023

Get ready for a festive adventure like no other right here on the Farm! Join us for a jolly and memorable Christmas celebration with a host of fun activities that all the family will enjoy!

Biscuit Making, Reindeer Food Making, Make Your Own Decoration, Visit Father Christmas, Exchange Your Special Coin: Receive a special coin and choose your perfect Christmas present and Join in the Elf Fun: Participate in elf tricks and games for laughter and merriment!

Book here – Events | Greenlands Farm Village

Santa specials at Ribble steam railway – book now for 2023

When – 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th and 17th December 2023

Snuggle up with your loved ones in your warm, steam-heated carriage. Watch eyes light up as Father Christmas visits you in your seat to hand each child their very own Christmas gift. Light seasonal refreshments on the train are included and Mrs Ribble’s Tea Room will be open for extra drinks and goodies.

Book here when tickets are available –  Santa Specials 2023 – Ribble Steam Railway

Santa by the lake at Brockholes – Book now for 2023

When – from 25th November – 17th December 2023

Each child will have five minutes to talk with Santa and choose their very own toy from his workshop, there will also be ample opportunities to take photographs. 

All children require a ticket to see Santa regardless of their age. All children must be accompanied by an adult. There is no charge for accompanying adults.

Santa’s Workshop will be located in the Meadow Lake Suite on our floating Visitor Village and sign posted for you, just head there in time for your appointment slot.

Book here – Events | Brockholes Nature Reserve

Sail to Santa, WWT Martin Mere – Book now for 2023

When – weekends in December, plus 21 – 23 December 2023

• Boat trip to see Santa on his island with his elves
• Visit to Santa
• Make your own reindeer food, decorate a wooden Christmas tree decoration and decorate a biscuit

Book here – Sail to Santa at WWT Martin Mere | WWT

Santa’s Grotto at Haigh Woodland Park – Book now for 2023

When – 25th November – 23rd December 2023 (weekends only)

Just £7.50 per child.

All Santa Sittings must be booked in advance. Tel: 01942 828280. (Phone Lines open 10.00am – 4.00pm).

A magical meeting with Father Christmas at Hoghton Tower – Book now for 2023

When – 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 22nd and 23rd December 2023

You will find Father Christmas next to the roaring log fire waiting to chat with you in small groups. He will make sure that he knows what every child would like to find on Christmas morning. Each child will receive a gift from underneath the beautifully decorated Christmas Tree and there will be time for you to take individual or family pictures in the festive surroundings.

Book here – 9th – 23rd December – A Magical Meeting with Father Christmas – Hoghton Tower

Santa’s Grotto, Dobbies, Southport and Preston – book now for 2023

When – selected dates from 23rd November – 24th December 2023

Take in the atmosphere as you walk through our enchanting forest. An elf will guide you to find our Little Seedlings characters along the way before arriving in our wildlife forest clearing where the little ones will make a special item to take home

Your experience will then continue with a chance to meet Santa Claus – children are encouraged to share their excitement, wishes and stories before receiving their gift.

Price – £11.99 per child

Book here – Events | Dobbies Garden Centres

The Grinch (2018) with Mr & Mrs Claus at The Ashcroft – book now for 2023

When – 17th December 2023

Where – The Ashcroft, Whitworth Civic Hall, Whitworth, OL12 8DP

Come and join us for a festive movie and receive a small gift and some reindeer food from Mr & Mrs Claus!

Children £5.50 – Includes small gift & reindeer food

Adults £3.00 – Includes hot drink & mince pie

Doors open at 9.30am, Film starts at 10.15am

Santa will be giving out gifts between 9.30am-10.15am

Book here – The Grinch (2018) with Mr & Mrs Claus Tickets, Sun 17 Dec 2023

Santa Specials at West Lancs light railway – bookings for 2023 open soon

When – December 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th 2023

Join a short ride on a Santa Special steam train to Toyland, and meet Father Christmas! Children receive a present from Santa, and adults can enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie.

Book from 1st October 2023 – Santa Specials | West Lancs Railway

Santa’s Grotto at Lytham Hall – tickets for 2023 on sale now

When – 2rd & 3rd, 9th & 10th, 16th, 17th, 20th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd December 2023.​

Santa’s Grotto Experience offers your Children a special personal audience with Santa-time to have a cosy chat, receive a present – followed by a photo opportunity for you to capture magical moments using your own camera or mobile phone.

Admission: £14.50 per child

Find out more and book here – Lytham hall santa

Santa’s grotto at Coral Island, Blackpool – book now for 2023

When – 24 Nov – 24 Dec 2023

Travel through Santa’s wonderland until you arrive at Santa’s Grotto. Your ticket includes a meeting with Santa, a goody bag of Coral Island sweets, prize tickets and a £5 playcard.

You will also get to choose a special gift from Santa’s Workshop. There are two ticket types available depending on the child’s age so please choose the correct type before purchasing.

Tickets are sold in timed slots and are limited and subject to availability. You can arrive anytime between the chosen time slot; the ticket does not guarantee an exact time to see Santa.

cost – £6.99 for under 3s, £9.99 for 4 plus.

Book here – Meet Santa at Coral Island Blackpool 2023

Santa Camp at The Wayfarer – book now for 2023

Where – The Wayfarer, 1-3 Alder Lane, Parbold, Wigan, Lancashire, WN8 7NL

When – 8-10th and 15-17th December 2023

Santa Camp is s the real story of Christmas. The Nativity Trail lets children discover the wise men, shepherds and a star tell the story of Baby Jesus and the first St. Nicholas followed by a visit with Santa himself in his tipi.

Children (and their nearest and dearest) can make a day of visiting Santa in our Christmas Tipi with festive food and drink and Christmas markets.

Book here – Santa Camp

Santa’s grotto at The edge Christmas markets – book now for 2023

When – 25th November 2023

Where – The Edge, Riveredge, Wigan, WN3 5AB

Santa will be waiting in his enchanting grotto, ready to listen to the little ones’ dreams and wishes for the holiday season. There will also be Christmas markets, Christmas trail and donkey rides to enjoy.

Book here – The Edge Christmas Markets (25-Nov-2023)

Santa’s grotto at Preston market – Details for 2023

When – 9th & 16th December 2023

Where – Preston Markets, Earl Street, Preston, PR1 2JA

No need book and this is free.

Full details – 9th – Santa’s Grotto at Preston Markets – Visit Preston

16th – Visit Santa at Preston Markets – Visit Preston

Visit Santa at Fishergate – details for 2023

When – 9th December 2023

Where – Fishergate shopping centre, Preston, PR1 8HJ

Free and no need to book.

Full details here – Visit Santa at Fishergate – Visit Preston

Santa special canal cruises – book now for 2023

When – 2nd December 2023

Where – Barton Grange garden centre

Enjoy canal cruises from Barton Grange Marina is the perfect start to your family Christmas celebrations. A pantomime on the water with fun and games involving all on board.

Includes singing, colouring and a personal present from Santa and his elf!

The boat will be festively decorated with atmospheric twinkling lights. Drinks are not included but may be purchased from the bar on board as required.

£20 per child or adult

Book here – Santa Christmas Cruises | Kingfisher Cruise | Barton

Victorian Father Christmas at Samlesbury Hall – bookings open soon for 2023

When – 3rd, 10th, 19th, 20th and 21st December 2023

Where – Samlesbury Hall,

Sit by the open fire as you discover if you are on the ‘naughty’ or ‘nice’ list! The candlelit Parlour will be dressed with historical decorations to create an atmosphere of Christmas past. Your meeting is personal and exclusive to you, and is intended for up to 4 children aged 10 years and under. Adults go free (1 per child), and you may take your own photographs to keep the memory of your meeting alive for years to come.

£10 per child

Book here – Samlesbury Hall

Santa’s grotto at Ribby Hall village – book now for 2023

When – from now until 24th December 2023

Your journey begins as you walk through the magical festive woodland in search of Santa’s Elves. This interactive trail leads you to Santa’s Grotto where you’ll gather reindeer dust, cast magical spells and write your Christmas Wish List under the guidance of Head Elf.

The magic continues as you step inside to meet the Big Man himself. Remember this special moment with a souvenir family photo and a cuddly toy for the little ones.

Experience includes:

– Festive lights walk-through experience – Four interactive stations – Photo opportunities – Meet & greet our Head Elf – Personal meet & greet with Santa – Cuddly toy for each child – Family souvenir photo

£25 per child

Book here – NEW Santa’s Grotto Experience

Santa’s grotto at Cuerden Valley Park

Santa is coming to visit our Christmas Market on 9th of December, why not come and visit him in his special, naturally decorated grotto and receive an early Christmas present.

£8 per child and adults are free. 

Book here – Santas Grotto – Cuerden Valley Park

Elf forest experience, Chorley

Where – Joseph Noblett’s Christmas Tree Farm, Preston Road, Chorley, PR7 5LE

When – Opens 25th November 2023

With every Elf Forest experience ticket you will receive a elf hat, elf snickle (elf money to spend at Tracy’s Post office in Elf Forest), a Christmas tree seedling, gingerbread biscuit (this may change due to allergens), Christmas gifts from the elves, Elf Forest certificate, and a ticket for Santa’s grotto (this includes a gift from Santa).

Book here – Elf forest

Santa train at Windmill animal farm

Where – Windmill Animal Farm, Fish Lane, Burscough, Lancashire L40 1UQ

When – 2nd – 23rd December 2023

Full access to the farm is included. Train ride and optional Magical Mere trail walk (20 minutes) and santa’s grotto.

Book here – Santa Train Tickets – 2nd -23rd December 2023 – Windmill Animal Farm

Breakfast with Santa Lancashire

Find all the places where you can enjoy Breakfast with Santa Lancashire here.

Always looking for inspiration for family days out across the North West? Join the Family Days Out North West Facebook group to be part of a community sharing the best family days out across the region.  Join here .

More Christmas events North West 2023

There’s so much more going on in Lancaster this Christmas, find it all here – Christmas events Lancashire

There are more places to see Santa not far away in Manchester, find them all here – Where to see Father Christmas Manchester .

You could also head north and Where to visit Santa Cumbria here.

Find loads of ideas for  Christmas light trails North West  here.

Find all the Christmas Events North West here.

Find out Where to buy a real Christmas tree Lancashire here.

Find all the best Lancashire Christmas shows here.

Kids don’t need to miss out on all the fun, find the best New Years Eve family events Lancashire here.

Find more great  family days out North West England  all year round here.

About The Author

Claire Bones

Claire lives with her husband an 2 daughters in Cheshire. They love family days out and short breaks. As well as exploring Cheshire, you’ll find them exploring the wider North West on days out and holidays.

See author's posts

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• Visit Preston
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Visit Santa at Preston Markets

Keep an eye out for Santa at Preston Markets this season.

Keep your eyes peeled because Santa will be out and about at Preston Markets meeting and greeting little ones who may be visiting to do a spot of Christmas shopping. Any children who've made it onto the good list this year could receive a free gift!

Whilst you're visiting the markets, don't miss the fantastic festive Victorian carol singers who will be performing on this date within the Market Hall.

The Orchard are also serving festive mulled wine, available to drink in or takeout, it makes the perfect seasonal tipple whilst you're out and about..

Santa visiting times

11am and 3pm on the hour.

Christmas at Preston Markets

To find out what other festive events are taking place this season see Christmas events at Preston Markets .

Christmas events in Preston

To discover wider Christmas events happening across the city see Visit Preston - Christmas events in Preston .

Other times on Tuesday 9 April

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• Invest Preston
• Preston Markets
• Markets Events
• Santa's Grotto

Santa's Grotto at Preston Markets

Come and see the big man at Preston Markets for free this season.

Come and visit Father Christmas, receive a free gift and let him know what you want for Christmas this year - don't forget to let him know you're on the nice list!  As part of Preston Markets free Christmas Fun Day , there will be plenty for kids to do on the day. Whilst you're there, why not browse around for last minute gift ideas, stock up on some great tasty locally sourced festive food or grab yourself a bite to eat at one of our great cafes or food to go stalls .

The Orchard  are also serving festive mulled wine, available to drink in or takeout, it makes the perfect seasonal tipple.

Meeting Santa times

• 11am - 11:40am
• 12pm - 12:40pm
• 1pm - 1:40pm
• 2pm - 2:40pm

How to book

No need to book. Just turn up and enjoy the festive experience.

Christmas at Preston Markets

To find out what other festive events are taking place this season see Christmas events at Preston Markets .

Christmas events in Preston

To discover wider Christmas events happening across the city see Visit Preston - Christmas events in Preston .

Other times on Tuesday 9 April

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• Markets Events
• Visit Santa

Visit Santa at Preston Markets

Keep an eye out for Santa at Preston Markets this season.

Keep your eyes peeled because Santa will be out and about at Preston Markets meeting and greeting little ones who may be visiting to do a spot of Christmas shopping. Any children who've made it onto the good list this year could receive a free gift!

Whilst you're visiting the markets, don't miss the fantastic festive Victorian carol singers who will be performing on this date within the Market Hall.

The Orchard are also serving festive mulled wine, available to drink in or takeout, it makes the perfect seasonal tipple whilst you're out and about..

Santa visiting times

11am and 3pm on the hour.

Christmas at Preston Markets

To find out what other festive events are taking place this season see Christmas events at Preston Markets .

Christmas events in Preston

To discover wider Christmas events happening across the city see Visit Preston - Christmas events in Preston .

28 Market Street

Other times on Saturday 16 December

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Christmas in Preston: A Season of Festive Events

8 November 2023

The magic of Christmas is descending upon Preston, and the city is ready to celebrate in style. This year's lineup of Christmas events in Preston promises a season of togetherness, joy, and festive celebrations, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

From enchanting light displays to heartwarming family films, creative workshops to choir showcases, the city is set to come alive with the spirit of the season in a series of free and paid for events and activities.

Baby's First Christmas Bauble - Guild Hall Foyer | Tuesday 14 November | 11am - 11.30am | £14 +booking fee

Capturing your baby's handprints and footprints painted onto a Christmas bauble makes a very special keepsake. Fired 4 U use non-toxic paints which wash off the baby's skin and clothing easily.

Switch On Trail - Saturday 18 November | 2:15pm and 3:30pm | Free

The Snowman and The Snowdog will be joined by Shrek, Santa, and Coronation Street's Anthony Cotton, plus more special guests. They'll be at the Fishergate Centre from 2:15pm, and Cannon Street from 3:30pm.

Christmas Light Switch On - Flag Market | Saturday 18 November | 5:30pm - 8pm | Free

Witness the illumination of Preston as it comes alive with festive lights! The event features a packed lineup of special guests and performers, including the hugely popular Max and Harvey, soul and disco legends, Odyssey, and Corrie legend Anthony Cotton.

Lino Printing Workshop - Guild Hall Foyer | Wednesday 22 November | 1pm - 4pm | £45 +booking fee

Learn how to create a beautiful festive print block using linocut with The Little Art House. Using specialist tools you will explore how to make marks and create a range of effects and will have fun experimenting with colour to create a range of prints and cards with a winter theme.

Calligraphy Workshop - Guild Hall Foyer | Wednesday 29 November | 11am - 1pm | £39 +booking fee

Discover the art of calligraphy with Mellor & Rose. This workshop offers a chance to explore this elegant writing style, along with creating your own gift tags and greetings card all in beautiful lettering.

Choir Showcase - Flag Market | Saturday 2 December | 2pm - 3pm | Free

Join over 100 singers from different choirs coming together to sing all their favourite Carols and Christmas songs. Including Women Rockin' Harmony, Red Rosettes, Ribble Rousers, Intact Singers, Soundskills Songsters boosted by Bolton Belters.

Design a Personalised Christmas Eve Plate - Guild Hall Foyer | Saturday 2 December | 11am - 12.30pm | £20 +booking fee

Create a cherished family tradition by crafting a personalised Christmas Eve plate with Fired 4 U. A delightful hands-on activity. Once the design is complete, the plates will be glazed and kiln-fired.

Fire Garden - Avenham and Miller Parks | Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December | 6:30pm - 9pm | Free

Step into a world of wonder at Preston's first Fire Garden. Feel the heat as dazzling fire sculptures transform Avenham & Miller Parks into a place of magic and excitement.

Three Georgian Christmases in Winckley Square - Talk - Central Methodist Church, Lune St | Thursdays 7 and 14 December | 1:30pm - 3:30pm | £6.50

Step back in time to explore the festive traditions of three Georgian Christmases. Enjoy a Georgian Christmas slide show followed by an enlightening talk by Susan Douglass.

Arthur Christmas (PG) - Guild Hall Foyer | Saturday 9 December | 11am - 12:40pm | £2 Adults / £1 Children

Gather the family for a heartwarming holiday film. Join Arthur, Santa's son, on a delightful adventure to save Christmas in this animated classic.

Santa's Grotto - Preston Markets | Saturday 9 December | Various times between 11am - 2:40pm | Free

The Markets will host the city's free Santa's Grotto, come and visit Santa and let him know what you want for Christmas this year.

Makers Market - Flag Market | Saturday 9 December | 10:00am - 4pm | Free

Discover a treasure trove of unique holiday gifts and handcrafted items at the Makers Market. Support local artisans and find the perfect presents for loved ones.

Winckley Christmas Concert - Winckley Square | Sunday 10 December | 3pm - 5:30pm | Free

Celebrate the season with a festive Christmas concert in the heart of Winckley Square. Enjoy an evening of beautiful music and holiday cheer.

Anna and the Apocalypse (15) - Guild Hall Foyer | Wednesday 13 December | 7.30pm - 9:10pm | £2

Join the quirky characters of Anna and the Apocalypse for a unique twist on a holiday film. This lively movie combines comedy, horror, and heartwarming moments.

Cannon Street Christmas Market - Cannon Street | Thursday 14 December | Until 7pm | Free

Explore festive market stalls, filled with unique gifts and treats. Be sure to sip on a comforting hot chocolate or mulled wine while listening to the singing Mrs. Christmas.

Magio Strings - String Quartet Christmas Music - Fishergate Centre | Friday 8 and Thursday 14 December | 12:00pm - 3pm | Free

Prepare to be serenaded this festive season as the illustrious Magio Strings grace Fishergate Shopping Centre with enchanting Christmas harmonies.

The Muppet Christmas Carol - Guild Hall Foyer | Saturday 16 December | 11am - 12:30pm | £2 Adults / £1 Children

Experience the magic of the Muppets in this timeless holiday classic. Join Kermit, Miss Piggy, and all your favourite characters for a heartwarming Christmas tale.

Victorian Choir - Preston Markets | Saturday 16 December | Various Times | Free

Feel all festive this season with a visit to Preston Markets to enjoy classic Victorian carol singers performing an array of traditional Christmas carols. Look out for Santa as he makes his way around the markets giving out gifts.

Visit Santa - Fishergate Centre | Saturdays 9, 16, 23 December | 12pm - 3:00pm | Free

Set against a beautifully crafted Christmas scene, you'll get the chance to meet the jolly man himself.

Councillor Peter Kelly, Cabinet member for Arts and Culture at Preston City Council, said:

"As we light up the streets of Preston, this holiday season promises a tapestry of joy and excitement for all. Join us, as we kindle the spirit of community and create lasting memories, celebrating the most wonderful time of the year in Preston."

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• Skip to main content

• Visit Preston
• Invest Preston
• Markets Events
• Visit Santa

Visit Santa at Preston Markets

Keep an eye out for Santa at Preston Markets this season.

Keep your eyes peeled because Santa will be out and about at Preston Markets meeting and greeting little ones who may be visiting to do a spot of Christmas shopping. Any children who've made it onto the good list this year could receive a free gift!

Whilst you're visiting the markets, don't miss the fantastic festive Victorian carol singers who will be performing on this date within the Market Hall.

The Orchard are also serving festive mulled wine, available to drink in or takeout, it makes the perfect seasonal tipple whilst you're out and about..

Santa visiting times

11am and 3pm on the hour.

Christmas at Preston Markets

To find out what other festive events are taking place this season see Christmas events at Preston Markets .

Christmas events in Preston

To discover wider Christmas events happening across the city see Visit Preston - Christmas events in Preston .

Other times on Tuesday 9 April

Lancashire's best Santa Grottos 2022 for the boys and girls who've been good all year

The places in the county where little ones can meet the man in a red and white suits and matching hat

• 17:27, 15 NOV 2022
• Updated 17:59, 15 NOV 2022

Join the Secret Elves to get first access to our exclusive reviews of the must-have products this year.

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It's the time of year where adults in the family can pull out the old "if you don't behave, I'll tell Santa you've been naughty and he'll take you off his good list and you won't get any presents" threat.

Also, the first line Father Christmas is likely to utter when your little cherub visits him in his grotto is "have you been good this year?" before proceeding to inquire what they would like for Christmas . Most parents can probably relate to both statements and since we are in the countdown to Christmas, it is time to plan a trip to Santa's Grotto.

Grottos will be dotted around Lancashire in garden centres, shopping malls and other venues, ready to greet youngsters excited to tell the big man in a red suit and white beard what they would like come December 25.

READ MORE: Christmas pantos in Lancashire 2022: Where to watch, ticket prices, celebrity line ups and more

If you're stumped on where to take your child this year or are looking for something a little different, then we have done the hard work for you and rounded up the best grottos in Lancashire for Christmas 2022. Take a look at the list below, where we have avoided the one-off events to give families more scope to plan, and see where your nearest Winter Wonderland.

Dobbies, Preston

The grotto will transform the centre with a snowy woodland , spotting reindeer, rabbits and more, as well as helping to pack Santa’s sleigh. Other festive events will also include Santa's afternoon tea, which is expected to be one of the most popular annual events at the garden centre, while Breakfast with Santa will also return.

Your furry friends will not be left out of the fun as the Santa Paws grotto experience also returning for 2022. While special 'quiet grotto' days will also take place, designed for children who have additional needs, with sound and visual changes in place to help reduce distress and anxiety.

The grotto opens opens November 24 (from £11.99 per child)

Barton Grange, Barton

In a slight twist to the traditional grotto, take a wander through the enchanted interactive walk-through experience and meet Santa at the end, with a virtual sleigh ride and photo with St Nick included for every group. The magical journey takes around 20-minutes and also includes treats from Santa along the route.

The Christmas Journey event is located between the garden centre and the Flower Bowl entertainment complex. Entry is £23 per child aged two and above while adults are £10, with a maximum of six [people per group permitted.

The experience runs from Saturday, November 19 to Saturday, December 24. You can book here

Blackpool Pleasure Beach Christmas Wonderland

Marvel at the tinkling lights and enchanting winter displays before meeting Santa. Teach visit includes a free hot drink and free gift. Children will also be handed a packet of ‘magic reindeer food’ and a ‘magic key’ with instructions on what to do with both of them on Christmas Eve.

Try a Christmas bauble waffle and ride the Cheshire Cat carriage on the Alice In Wonderland ride. This grotto will open on selected dates from November 24 to December 24. Tickets are £16.99 and include up to two accompanying adults per child to enter the Grotto.

You can book a timeslot here

Coral Island

Hidden among the arcade games and flashing machine is Santa waiting in his grotto. Entry includes a goody bag an passes to select rides while a gift can be chosen from Santa's Workshop.

Head to the Buccaneer restaurant for lunch or dinner where children under 10 can eat for free with a paying adult. It is open at weekends from November 25 to December 18 on Fridays (3pm to 8pm_ and Saturday and Sunday (11am - 6pm).

Tickets are £8.99 per child and £4.99 for under threes. You can book here

Houndshill Shopping Centre

Mrs Clause will be waiting to take children through to meet the Big Man himself and hand over their Christmas wishlist letter.

More details for this grotto are coming soon.

Christmas 2022 in Lancashire

Ribby Hall Village, Kirkham

Meet Santa up a tree! No, really, he'll be waiting to greet the little ones in his magical tree house with his elves, busy getting ready for Christmas Eve. There will also be a 'live link' to the North Pole and the opportunity top make reindeer food.

The experience runs from November 12 to December 24, 10am to 8.20pm every day. Tickets are available here at £23 per child, while adult entry (maximum four) is free.

Slots are filling up rapidly so it is advised to book your timeslot soon as possible. Over at the holiday complex's Wild Discovery Animal Experience, you can feed real reindeer, Patara and Pringles.

Windmill Animal Farm, Burscough

Ride the special train to meet Santa. Families can book their own private compartment on the miniature train with Santa waiting in his magical winter wonderland grotto at the end of the journey.

Compartments are enclosed and fit up to four people, and children meeting Santa will be offered an age-appropriate gift as part of the experience. make sure you're on the look out for the farm's Fallow deer at the lake view station.

day passes, which are selling fast, also permit access to the general farm areas. Book your seat on the train here

Head over to Affinity Lancashire and greet Santa every weekend from December 3 right up to Christmas Eve, from 11am to 4pm (10am to 1pm on December 24 as he has millions presents to pack up and deliver).

Entry to the grotto is free.

West Lancashire Light Railway

Ride the short train ride to Toyland on Saturdays and Sundays throughout December. Meet father Christmas and the adults can also enjoy a glass of mulled wine. Prices and booking details to be confirmed.

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You are here: Explore > Visit Lancashire whatever the season > Visit Lancashire in Winter > Visit Lancashire at Christmas > Meet Father Christmas

Meet Father Christmas

There's nothing more exciting for your children than meeting Santa at Christmas. Luckily, he's making appearances all over Lancashire this year.

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Santa Specials at West Lancashire Light Railway

Christmas/Festive

Hesketh Bank

Take a short ride on a Santa Special steam train to Toyland and meet Father Christmas.

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• Visit Preston
• Preston Markets
• Markets Events
• Visit Santa

Visit Santa at Preston Markets

Keep an eye out for Santa at Preston Markets this season.

Keep your eyes peeled because Santa will be out and about at Preston Markets meeting and greeting little ones who may be visiting to do a spot of Christmas shopping. Any children who've made it onto the good list this year could receive a free gift!

Whilst you're visiting the markets, don't miss the fantastic festive Victorian carol singers who will be performing on this date within the Market Hall.

The Orchard are also serving festive mulled wine, available to drink in or takeout, it makes the perfect seasonal tipple whilst you're out and about..

Santa visiting times

11am and 3pm on the hour.

Christmas at Preston Markets

To find out what other festive events are taking place this season see Christmas events at Preston Markets .

Christmas events in Preston

To discover wider Christmas events happening across the city see Visit Preston - Christmas events in Preston .

Other times on Tuesday 9 April

Let Ribble Steam Railway & Museum bring even more happiness and entertainment to your seasonal celebrations.

Create warm and magical memories with one of our Santa Special Steam experiences. The perfect opportunity for a family get together, sprinkled with a generous helping of festive fun, excitement and laughter.

Snuggle up with your loved ones in your warm, steam-heated carriage. Watch eyes light up as Father Christmas visits you in your seat to hand each child their very own Christmas gift. Light seasonal refreshments on the train are included and Mrs Ribble’s Tea Room will be open for extra drinks and goodies.

Tickets include access to our festively trimmed museum and there will be live music and you might even spot the odd elf or two! Santa Trains will depart at the following times: 10:30am 11:45am 1:00pm 2:15pm 3:30pm

Things You Need To Know • If you require wheelchair access please contact us prior to making your booking.

• Please arrive around 30 minutes before the departure time of your booked train to ensure that you have time to board comfortably.

• Ensure you check in at the desk on arrival.

• There are no working toilets on the train so please make use of the facilities in the shop, baby changing also available. You will be on the train for around 40 mins.

• Prams can be left inside the museum, at the top of the ramp near the platform, as we don’t have room for them on the train.

• If you need to know anything during your visit just ask on of our friendly members of staff who will be only too pleased to help you have a great day.

• DOGS: Although we normally welcome your four legged friends, as the Santa Specials are so busy and noisy we politely request that you leave your dogs at home on this occasion. This is for the comfort of everyone, including your pets.

• E-Tickets will be sent by email in early November. Any postal tickets will be sent out by the middle of November. Please check your ‘spam’ folder before calling if you cannot locate them, as they often sneak in there!

Tickets are non-refundable and changes are not permitted. No refunds will be made for cancellations or non-arrivals.

PLEASE NOTE: Santa Special’s MUST be booked in advance …