Where to Meet Santa in South Devon this Christmas

With the festive season approaching fast, South Devon is full of wonderful places to meet Father Christmas himself; perfect for families, little ones and those creating magical memories. Here are some top picks for 2025 that combine Christmas charm with family-friendly flair. 

Pennywell Farm 

This farm attraction near Buckfastleigh turns into a magical festive experience at this time of year! You’ll go through a “North Pole check-in”, follow a nativity journey among animals, enjoy animal cuddles and indoor/outdoor play, and importantly - meet Father Christmas in his grotto (with a special gift for each child).  

Why it’s great: Very hands-on and immersive with plenty to do!  

Tip: Book early for your preferred date and arrive a little before your slot so you don’t miss the check-in. Sturdy shoes and warm layers will help as there’s an outdoor component. 

Santa’s Grotto at House of Marbles 

Step into the magical realm of Santa’s Grotto at House of Marbles, where treasured Christmas memories are made. Awaiting you are Santa and his Elves, ready to give each ticket holder the unique chance to meet Father Christmas in person. Share your heartfelt Christmas wishes, and every child will receive a delightful goody bag filled with treats and presents. 

Why it’s great: More relaxed, good if you prefer smaller groups and a gentler pace. 

Tip: Book in advance and consider combining with a short visit in their gift shop/cafe for a sweet treat afterwards! 

Santa Paws at House of Marbles 

Get ready to make this Christmas unforgettable for your beloved pets! Santa Paws is back at House of Marbles; this time, it’s bigger and better.  

Calling all animal lovers, your four-legged and pawed companions are invited to join Santa and his merry Elves on a whimsical journey through an enchanting winter wonderland. As the festive spirit fills the air, your furry friends will have the chance to meet Santa himself, tails wagging in excitement! Capture the moment with a paw-some photo with Santa and let your furry family’s joy shine brighter than Rudolph’s nose. 

Why it’s great: Furry friends don’t miss out! 

Tip: Book in quick – there are just two dates available! 

Santa in the Caves at Kent’s Cavern 

Step into a world of festive fun and adventure with Santa in the Caves at Kents Cavern! Expect a delightful interactive pantomime experience where you'll meet a host of colourful characters as you journey through the decorated caves to find the true meaning of Christmas and meet the big man himself. 

Why it’s great: A highly unique experience. Plus, adults receive mulled wine and mince pies! 

Tip: This event sells out every year. To avoid disappointment, secure your spot early to experience one of the most magical Santa experiences in Devon. 

Santa at Cofton’s Christmas Wonderland  

Step into the magic of the festive season and discover the most enchanting Santa’s Grotto in Dawlish as Cofton transforms into a sparkling Christmas Wonderland.  

Join Santa and his team of cheerful elves for a truly enchanting festive journey. Little ones will enjoy a personalised visit with Santa in his cosy grotto where they will get to meet and get a photo with the big man himself.  

You’ll also receive a special gift and get to sign Santa’s Good List before heading to activity stations to write and post a postcard to the North Pole, make your own magical reindeer food and enjoy a delicious hot chocolate and cookie. 

Why it’s great: Take a festive photo and share it using #SantaAtCofton to your socials and you will be in with a chance to win a special family prize in the Elfie-Selfie Competition! 

Tip: Booking is essential. 

Princesshay’s Santa Sundays 

Santa will be in Princesshay every Sunday from 30th November until the big day, 10.30am-4.30pm. 

Visitors will be able to find Santa sitting in his golden sleigh under the glass canopy outside Space NK. 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 for a photo. 

Why it’s great: Families will be able to pose with Father Christmas and his Elf for a festive photo before taking home a little keepsake for the tree. 

Tip: There is no booking system for this experience, so customers can simply turn up on their day of choice. When planning your visit, please also be aware that Santa gets a little peckish throughout the day and will need to re-fuel at lunch to keep his rosy cheeks red and his belly full so the experience will close for a short period at lunchtime to facilitate this! 

Train of Lights & Santa with Dartmouth Steam Railway 

Get ready for a truly magical journey this Christmas with a festive experience for all ages! Watch the countryside come alive with dazzling light displays as you travel through the night on the magical Train of Lights. 

When you book a special Train of Lights + Santa ticket you will travel on the fantastic Train of Lights service enjoying all this wonderful experience has to offer with the bonus of a trip from Santa! He will present each person with a gift (children and adults alike) and will be accompanied by a special helper to assist him in his duties. 

Why it’s great: A truly unique experience making memories to treasure for a lifetime! 

Tip: Get booking! Limited availability. 

Santa’s Grotto at Exeter’s Winter Wonderland 

Step into the heart of Christmas magic with a visit to Santa’s enchanting Grotto at Exeter’s Winter Wonderland. Santa and his cheerful elves are waiting to welcome children and families for an unforgettable festive experience.  

Each child will enjoy a personal meeting with Santa, share their Christmas wishes, and receive a special festive gift to take home. The grotto is beautifully decorated, brimming with twinkling lights, festive cheer, and plenty of photo opportunities. 

Why it’s great: Children can bring their letters to post to Santa! 

Tip: Pre-booking is recommended this year to avoid disappointment. 

Santa’s Grotto at Boringdon Hall 

Feel the magic of Christmas at Boringdon Hall with their enchanting Santa's Grotto, a delightful experience for the whole family. 

Nestled in the historic charm of Boringdon’s magnificent hall, the grotto becomes a winter wonderland, bringing the festive spirit to life. Arrive and be dazzled by a dance performance, enjoy a divine Festive Afternoon Tea, get creative with Christmas activities including gingerbread decorating and meet Santa Claus himself to receive a Christmas present. 

Why it’s great: A luxurious take on the classic meet and greet in a glorious setting. 

Tip: Get booking! Limited availability. 

Naughty Elves Breakfast at The Ivy Exeter 

This festive season, The Ivy Exeter are inviting guests to join in the family festive fun with the Naughty Elves Breakfast! 

Guests can dine on a selection of festive favourites, while The Ivy's mischievous elves will entertain with playful antics, creating a festive atmosphere brimming with surprise and delight.  

Not only will children and adults alike delight in the festive food and magical mischief, but families will also be gifted a bundle of goodies to take home and continue the fun once the event ends.   

Why it’s great: Not a fan of the usual Santa’s Grotto? Delight in the mischief his elves can bring instead! 

Tip: Book soon! Limited availability. 

Wrap Up the Magic 

Wherever you choose to meet Santa this year, South Devon is brimming with festive cheer and unforgettable moments for all ages. From sparkling grottoes and cosy farm visits to unique underground adventures and bustling Christmas markets, there’s something special waiting around every corner. 

So bundle up, book your tickets early, and get ready to make magical memories this Christmas in South Devon - where the spirit of the season truly comes to life.