Where to Meet Santa in South Devon 2024

As the festive season approaches, South Devon transforms into a magical wonderland, perfect for making holiday memories with family and friends. One of the highlights for many is meeting Santa Claus himself. Whether you're after a cosy grotto experience, a festive train ride, or an enchanted Christmas adventure, South Devon has something to delight children and adults alike.  

Here’s your guide to the best places to meet Santa in South Devon this year! 

Santa’s Enchanted Forest Grotto at Plymouth’s Winter Wonderland 

Selected dates between 15th November – 1st January 

This year's Winter Wonderland promises to be even more enchanting, with a host of festive delights for all ages. Step into a Winter Wonderland of twinkling lights, festive music, and Christmas cheer. 

Take a magical journey through the enchanted forest to meet the jolly old man himself and his elves. Each visit includes a special gift to make the experience even more memorable. Have a family picture taken and turn it into a special keepsake or a Christmas gift for your loved one. No need to pre-book, just show up on the day. 

Fleet Walk’s Santa’s Grotto, Torquay  

Selected dates between 16th November – 14th December 

Santa will be back in town this festive season in a stunning ‘Alice in a Winter Wonderland’ at his Fleet Walk grotto in Torquay! 

The elves have been hard at work creating the most beautiful display at the popular charity grotto. 

This year, visitors will be invited to enter a magical 'Alice in a Winter Wonderland' filled with glitter and sparkle, along with animated characters, before meeting Father Christmas for a private chat. The elves have also selected some exciting toys which will be gift wrapped and ready for children who are listed on Santa’s “good list”. Once again, visitors will be able to take away a souvenir photo with Santa, included in the ticket price. 

The grotto opens on Saturday, 16th November and will run every Saturday and Sunday until 14th December when it will open every day until Christmas Eve. 

Christmas at Pennywell Farm, Buckfastleigh 

Selected dates between 22nd November – 24th December 

As part of their spectacular Christmas Experience, Pennywell Farm are offering families the chance to visit Father Christmas in his grotto! After getting your Christmas passport stamped by an elf, enjoying the Nativity story and cuddling some cute animals, enter Pennywell Farm’s sparkly enchanted forest where Father Christmas will be waiting in his grotto with a special gift for every child. Group visits to Father Christmas will be limited to two families at a time. Online booking is essential, and tickets are limited – book now to secure your space! 

Santa’s Grotto at Exeter’s Winter Wonderland 

Selected dates between 22nd November – 24th December 

A visit to Santa's Grotto is a highlight of the season! Meet the REAL Santa, receive two presents, enjoy plenty of photo opportunities, and post your letter to Santa in his special mailbox. Plus, you'll get to help out in the Naughty Elf Workshop! 

Make sure to check the website for the exact opening times of the grotto. Santa's Grotto and Ice Skating are incredibly popular, and we highly recommend pre-booking your tickets in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment! ️ 

Santa's Grotto at House of Marbles, Bovey Tracey  

Selected dates between 23rd November - 22nd December 

House of Marbles is hosting Father Christmas in their magical Santa's Grotto every Saturday and Sunday from the 23rd of November in the lead up to Christmas, plus some additional days closer to the big day. 

This year’s grotto delivers an unparalleled experience, making it the ultimate festive destination. Follow a trail lit by enchanting lights to a cosy retreat where Santa awaits. An exclusive encounter with Father Christmas promises a treasure trove of joyful and awe-inspiring memories. For groups larger than 5 children or those needing extra time (SEND sessions/disability-friendly spaces), special slots are available to ensure a comfortable visit for all.   

Christmas at the Castle at Powderham Castle, Exeter 

25th November - 31st December  

Experience the wonder of Christmas at Powderham this festive season! 

From 25th November - 31st December 2024, the historic Powderham Castle and grounds will sparkle with dazzling lights, filling the air with festive cheer and creating a truly unforgettable display. 

Wander through the enchanting light walk and let the children meet Santa in his grotto, where he'll give special gifts to everyone on the nice list. Enjoy delicious holiday treats and warm up with seasonal drinks as you explore the beautifully adorned castle and grounds. 

This magical event is one you won't want to miss! Admission is £14.95 per adult and £8.95 per child, with options to book Santa's Grotto and the Festive Afternoon Tea separately. Children under 3, carers, and membership holders enter free, and dogs are welcome too. 

Meet Father and Mother Christmas at Torre Abbey, Torquay 

Selected dates between 29th November – 15th December 

Torre Abbey are thrilled to announce that Father and Mother Christmas will be returning for this year’s Christmas season. They will be joining the Abbey’s enchanting Undercroft Winter Wonderland, promising an experience as heart-warming and memorable as last year! 

Father and Mother Christmas are very much looking forward to meeting the children and helping families to make the season even more special! Each family will have exclusive time with Father and Mother Christmas and receive a special Christmas gift. 

On your visit you will also be able to explore the historic Abbey and Gardens, visit the ‘800 years of Christmas’ exhibition and take in the festive atmosphere of the outdoor Christmas Market and Winterfest craft fair. (Christmas Market 29th November - 21 December - and Winterfest will be the weekend of 30th November - 1st December). 

Torre Abbey wants every family to have the best experience possible when they visit Father and Mother Christmas. If there is anything that would help with your family’s individual needs, please contact torreabbeyenquiries@torbay.gov.uk and the team will do their best to accommodate your requirements.  

Santa’s Grotto at Mercure Paignton’s Festive Christmas Market, Paignton 

Saturday 30th November  

As well as enjoying local craft stalls, live musical performances and festive food and drink, guests will be able to say hello to Santa from 12pm-3pm. A magical and free experience in partnership with Children’s Hospice South West. 

Christmas Grotto Experience at Bear Town, Cullompton 

Selected dates between 30th November – 24th December 

Experience the magic of Christmas at Bear Town, an indoor role play venue for children aged 12 months – 7 years old.  

When you arrive, you'll be handed your exclusive Christmas buzzer, a unique gadget that Father Christmas will activate when it's time to invite you into his splendid grotto. This means you can make the most of our festive town without having to wait in line.  

When your buzzer lights up, you'll set off on an enchanting adventure through our winter woodland. Guided by a cheerful elf, every child will have the opportunity to craft their own magical bag of reindeer food. Afterward, it's time to meet Father Christmas in his magnificent grotto, where each child will receive a beautifully wrapped gift. 

The Polar Express Train Ride at South Devon Railway, Buckfastleigh 

Selected dates between 30th November and 29th December 

All aboard The Polar Express! Enjoy a magical journey to the North Pole on the South Devon Railway, inspired by the iconic Christmas film.   

Ride The Polar Express along the River Dart, meet the train conductor, the singing chefs and keep your eyes peeled for Santa! As the train slows to a halt, be sure to watch the entrance of your carriage for the moment when the jolly old man himself climbs on board THE POLAR EXPRESS™ 

Santa and his elf will present everyone with their very own “First Gift of Christmas”, a silver bell from his very own sleigh. Thinking back to the Polar Express story, we would like to remind everyone to check their pockets for holes! 

Santa Sundays at Exeter’s Princesshay Shopping Centre 

Sunday 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd December  

Santa will be visiting Princesshay Shopping Centre every Sunday in December in the lead-up to Christmas. 

Visitors will be able to find Santa sitting in his golden sleigh under the glass canopy outside Crew Clothing and Clarendon Fine Art. Santa will be waving and greeting all passers-by , and those wanting to share their Christmas lists and pose for a picture will be able to queue to join him briefly in the sleigh. 

Princesshay's Charity of the Year, Exeter Leukemia Fund (ELF), will collect donations from families queuing to meet the 'man in red'. The suggested donation of £2.50 each will go to the lifesaving work of ELF. 

Each child that meets Santa will receive a keepsake decoration to hang on their tree at home. 

Father Christmas at Okehampton’s Edwardian Evening, Okehampton 

Thursday 5th December 

Everything Okehampton, in collaboration with Miss Ivy Events, is proud to announce the much-anticipated annual Okehampton Edwardian Evening Christmas event. Get ready to kickstart your Christmas season in style! 

Join the festivities in the heart of Okehampton's town centre on Thursday, December 5th, as the town ignites the holiday spirit with an unforgettable evening of sparkle. The excitement begins at 18:00 and continues until 21:00, ensuring hours of fun for the whole family. 

The star of the evening, Father Christmas himself, will be eagerly waiting to greet you in The Museum Courtyard. But that's not all – enjoy carols with the Mayor at St. James Church, delightful songs from Alison Moyna, Oke Voices and Wren Music, and be amazed by the Festive Bubble Show and dance performances. 

See you there as the town comes together to celebrate the joy and magic of the holiday season!  

Greendale’s Santa’s Grotto at Greendale Farm Shop, Exeter 

6th, 8th, 13th, 15th, 20th and 23rd December 

The big man himself will be in residence at Greendale Farm Shop this Christmas! 

From 12-5 pm on December 6th-8th, 13th-15th and again on the 20th-23rd, children can pay a special visit to Santa in his grotto and receive a gift to take home. They'll be able to let Father Christmas know all about what they'd like for Christmas this year and take special photos to remember the visit. 

Santa’s Grotto at Westpoint’s Christmas Shopping Fayre, Exeter 

6th-8th December 

Head along to Westpoint Exeter’s three-day Christmas Shopping Fayre this year and browse over 250 festive stands bursting with unique Christmas gift ideas for all the family. Enjoy the entertainers, demonstrators and even a free Santa's Grotto amidst the terrific, bustling atmosphere of the Fayre! 

Children always enjoy Westpoint’s Shopping Fayre - it’s an exciting event for them with so much happening in every alley and lots of kid-friendly wares on every stall. They can even meet Santa in his free Santa’s Grotto to let him know what’s on their list this year. 

Santa’s Christmas Cracker at Pavilions, Teignmouth 

Saturday 7th December 

Join Father Christmas and friends at Pavilions Teignmouth for a fun, festive, musical adventure to discover the wonder of Christmas – you may even get to pull a cracker with Dotty the Elf! Santa’s Christmas Cracker is a 45-minute, interactive family show suitable for 2–8-year-olds. Afterwards, the adventure continues as each child gets to meet Father Christmas and receive a specially wrapped present from him. 

Sail with Santa, Stuart Line Cruises, Exmouth   

Selected dates between 7th December – 22nd December  

Sail with Santa has been a beloved tradition at Stuart Line Cruises for over two decades and it’s a truly unique way to welcome the festive season.   

Come and meet Santa in his enchanting on-board grotto where every child will receive a good-quality, handpicked gift, whilst the grown-ups can enjoy a glass of our secret recipe homemade mulled wine and a warm, locally baked mince pie. 

This cruise is packed from start to finish with heaps for everyone to do! Watch whilst our entertainers captivate their audience and prepare to roar with good old-fashioned laughter as the traditional Punch and Judy show entertains the adults and children alike! 

Generations of families have now been joining in with Stuart Line’s Sail with Santa cruises – so why not make this part of your family’s festive tradition – they look forward to welcoming you on board! 

Santa in the Caves at Kents Cavern, Torquay 

Selected dates between 7th-24th December  

Join Kents Cavern for an interactive pantomime experience like no other where you'll meet a host of colourful characters as you journey through decorated prehistoric caves!  

At the start of the journey, every child will be given a 'magic wand' which will switch on the Christmas lights throughout the cave. The adventure finishes with a personal meeting with Santa where each child receives a wrapped gift, and adults can enjoy mulled wine and festive treats. Expect festive storytelling, sing-alongs, interactive activities and surprises to delight both children and adults... all before meeting the jolly man himself in the final chamber!   

Breakfast and Carvery with Santa at Lady’s Mile Holiday Park 

7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st and 22nd December 

Experience the joy and wonder of the festive season at Lady’s Mile Holiday Park!  Head along and enjoy a magical breakfast or carvery and see Santa in his Grotto this December!  

Enjoy either a delicious, traditional carvery with all the trimmings or a hearty breakfast and then visit Santa’s enchanted grotto where every child can collect a special gift.  

Booking is required. Tickets £6.95 (breakfast)/£13.95 (carvery) per adult. 

Breakfast with Santa at Dartmoor Zoo, Sparkwell 

Selected dates between 7th – 22nd December 

Santa Claus is coming to Dartmoor Zoo! 

Join the zoo for a super special morning of Festive Banqueting, Christmassy Crafts, access around the Zoo before it opens to the public AND a chance to meet and receive a gift from the Big Jolly Man himself. 

For animal lovers and festive fans alike, this exclusive event is not one to miss! 

Meet Occombe Farmer Christmas at Occombe Farm, Paignton  

Selected dates between 8th December – 23rd December 

This festive season, enjoy a truly different experience at Occombe Farm and Meet Farmer Christmas! 

Mrs. Christmas will greet you upon arrival and take you to Farmer Christmas’s charming workshop. In this cosy setting, your family will enjoy exclusive time with Farmer Christmas himself. Children can share their Christmas wishes, enjoy a festive drink and chocolate treat and chat with Farmer Christmas in a warm and friendly atmosphere before receiving a special gift.  

Combine a visit to meet Farmer Christmas with a Kids Festive Afternoon Tea for an unforgettable day of seasonal fun and treats! Booking is essential. Book separately and directly with Occombe Farm Cafe.  

Zoo Xmas Grotto & SEN Grotto at Shaldon Zoo, Shaldon 

14th – 15th December 

This December, experience a festive day out like no other at Shaldon Zoo’s enchanting grotto event! Meet Santa himself at the zoo and make memories with the whole family. Kids will get a chance to chat with Santa and receive a special gift to kickstart their Christmas cheer. Stoll through the scenic zoo, say hello to some of the amazing animals, and soak in the holiday magic. 

New for this year is the zoo’s special Santa SEN sessions. These are dedicated sessions for children who experience sensory overload and need a quieter, less busy time to meet Santa. Sessions will be available before the zoo opens. 

Book now to secure your spot and make this Christmas a truly wild adventure! 

Saxon Grotto at Wildwood Devon, Ottery St Mary 

Selected dates between 19th December – 24th December 

Visit Santa and his Earth Elves in his Saxon grotto! 

Nestled in the scenic beauty of Wildwood Devon and featuring authentic Saxon homes, Wildwood Devon’s Saxon Village sets the stage for an unforgettable holiday adventure. Embark on a magical journey into the enchanting Saxon era and experience the holiday magic as if you've been transported back in time. 

From 19th to 24th December, pay a visit to Earth Santa and his Earth Elves in his unique Saxon Grotto. Each child will receive a fluffy toy and a tree sapling from Santa. Plant the sapling and watch it grow along with your child! 

Whether you’re strolling through beautifully lit gardens, crafting with elves, or sipping mulled wine on a river cruise, Devon’s attractions are ready to make this season magical. If you want to stay updated on all the Christmas events in South Devon, make sure to view our Christmas events page here. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) where we'll keep you informed about what's happening and provide you with roundups of the best festive events in the region. It's going to be a joyous holiday season in South Devon!