Santa Specials - Christmas 2025

Christmas Has Arrived at the Museum! 

Get ready for a magical festive adventure at the Museum as it’s transformed into Santa's Grotto! Hop aboard our steam-hauled Christmas train and journey through the trees to meet Santa in his woodland grotto.

Your Christmas Journey Begins...

At your booked time, your festive ride departs from Reeds Road Station, right near the main entrance. Climb aboard and enjoy a scenic trip around the Museum grounds to the North Pole Station. From there, it’s just a short stroll through the trees to Santa’s enchanting grotto.

Meet Santa & Enjoy Festive Fun!

When you arrive at the grotto, families will be invited in one group at a time to spend a special moment with Father Christmas himself. While you wait your turn, children can get creative in the Elves' Workshop with Christmas crafts and activities — with a little help from Santa’s cheerful helpers.

Gifts & Goodies for Every Child

Children aged 0–12 years will receive a special gift, personally selected and named just for them — plus an ‘I’ve seen Santa!’ sticker to proudly wear all day! We’ll collect children's names and ages when you book to make sure every present is perfectly matched.

Explore a Christmasy Museum

Before or after your Santa experience, take time to wander through our historic buildings dressed in charming period Christmas decorations. It’s the perfect way to step back in time and soak up the festive spirit.

Opening Times

For the Santas Grotto Experience we are open:

Saturday 13th December, 10.00 - 18.00

Sunday 14th December, 10.00 - 17.00

Friday 19th December, 12.00 - 16.00

Saturday 20th December, 10.00 - 18.00

Sunday 21st December, 10.00 - 17.00

Warm Up at the Market Garden Café
Need a festive pick-me-up? The Market Garden Café serves a range of delicious hot and cold meals, snacks, and drinks from their seasonal menu. Enjoy indoor seating or wrap up warm in their covered outdoor area. Please note: Café hours may differ from the Museum opening times. They are a separate business running their own winter opening times.

Important Ticket Info

Please note: The Santa Special is a ticketed event and not included in Annual Pass or General Admission tickets. If you’d like to ride the train or visit Santa’s grotto, you’ll need to book tickets separately — but trust us, it’s worth it! Children under 1 year old do not need a ticket, but will receive a gift, please let us know when purcahsing that they are attending. Generally, this experience and gifts are suitable for children up to 12 years of age.

Bringing Your Furry Friends?

Dogs are welcome too — just make sure they’re kept on a lead.

We can’t wait to welcome you for a magical day of Christmas joy and festive memories.

Any questions?

Drop us a message at: info@rural-life.org.uk