Christmas is just around the corner, there's no time to wait! Santa is loading his sleigh and he can't be late! To celebrate this Christmas in style, we have compiled the top places in Kent to catch Santa on his travels!
Nothing says ‘Christmas’ quite like taking your children to see Father Christmas in his twinkling Santa’s grotto.
You don’t have to visit Lapland to visit Father Christmas, there are plenty of magical experiences much nearer home.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best Santa experiences in Kent that (at the time of writing) still have availability. Make sure you book your visit in advance to avoid disappointment!
Dover Castle
Father Christmas is taking time out of his busy festive schedule to tell some of his favourite seasonal stories around the Christmas tree at Dover Castle.
After the group storytelling session, you and your children will meet the man himself, with the chance to take photographs and make memories to treasure. Father Christmas will also give every child a traditional present to unwrap.
Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Romney
Travel by train to Santa’s grotto and enjoy some seasonal treats.
The Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway has been running its popular Santa Specials since 1981. and Santa Claus! Santa Specials include a return train journey from New Romney to Hythe, seasonal refreshments, and the main event – a visit to Santa in his Grotto.
Arrive early at New Romney and visit the Model Railway Exhibition before your train journey
The Historic Dockyard, Chatham
Explore the enchanting secret Christmas sub-station at the Historic Dockyard in Chatham.
Get ready for your little ones to embark on an unforgettable journey, where they will learn the fascinating art of elf magic and decode the secrets of the elf language. Only by successfully completing their training at the prestigious ‘Elf Academy’ will they gain the skills needed to aid Father Christmas in creating, wrapping, and delivering gifts, spreading joy to children all over the globe.
As a reward for their hard work, every family will have the delightful opportunity to meet Father Christmas himself and children will be presented with a gift.
Kent & East Sussex Railway
There’s nothing quite like the pleasure of a steam train ride through miles of Wealden countryside knowing your child will meet Santa and receive a named gift, all without moving from the comfort of your allocated seats. Relax and enjoy the journey!
Hever Castle
Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit at Hever Castle and enjoy a seasonal experience to remember, with a celebration of Christmas in the Land of Oz.
Be enchanted by familiar friends from the Land of Oz and follow the journey from Kansas to full colour characters and charming displays throughout the castle. Once dusk falls, the grounds are beautifully transformed and lit up for the season, making for a magical evening.
For an extra special visit, nothing says ‘Christmas’ quite like a visit to Father Christmas at Hever Castle in the Grotto.
Festive visits in Thanet
Get ready for festive fun across Thanet this December! Climb Crampton Tower in Broadstairs to meet Santa and ride a charming miniature railway. Over at RAF Manston History Museum , discover Santa at the Museum surrounded by aviation history. Or hop aboard The Elf Express at Quex Adventure Farm Park for skating, goat walks, reindeer, and a magical tractor ride through a twinkling winter wonderland. Christmas magic starts here!
The Polar Express
All aboard for the most magical Christmas journey in Kent! The Polar Express™ Train Ride at Spa Valley Railway brings the beloved story to life with singing chefs, dancing conductors, and steaming mugs of hot chocolate. But the real festive sparkle? Santa himself boards the train, meeting every child and gifting them the iconic silver sleigh bell, “the first gift of Christmas.” Snuggle up in your pyjamas, soak up the twinkling atmosphere, and make memories to treasure forever. This immersive, heartwarming adventure is pure festive joy, and a must for families looking to capture the true magic of Christmas.
