For many, Christmas is the most joyous time of the year. Yet, no matter how much we cherish the festive season as adults, nothing compares to the magic of Christmas as a child. Young, innocent minds delight in the wonder of this season, and while we may feel Christmas has become increasingly commercialised, it’s children who keep the true enchantment alive. Although we can’t recapture the feelings we had during our childhoods, seeing the joy and excitement on the faces of our children and grandchildren is a gift in itself.
For those looking to create magical memories with their little ones, Yorkshire is brimming with opportunities. For kids, it’s all about the jolly man in the bright red suit, and towns and cities across the county are offering enchanting encounters with him.
We’ve compiled a list of the most magical Santa experiences in Yorkshire, guaranteed to help you create lasting memories of the most wonderful time of the year. Each one promises fantastic entertainment, a captivating festive atmosphere, and of course… a special meeting with Father Christmas!
Best Yorkshire Santa Experiences for Families in 2025
National Coal Mining Museum
Where: National Coal Mining Museum, Caphouse Colliery, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF4 4RH
When: 22nd November – 24th December 2025
Prices: From £12 per child, adults free with accompanying child, book online
Step into a world of festive magic at the National Coal Mining Museum’s Santa’s Magic Workshop. Santa and his team of elves will welcome little visitors in their enchanting toy-making workshop, where they can watch festive preparations, follow a magical trail, and create their very own wooden keepsake to take home.
The experience includes a heartwarming Christmas story at the Pony Discovery Centre, along with seasonal crafts, ensuring children are entertained from start to finish. Every child ends the adventure with a special gift from Santa, making it a memorable holiday encounter.
Set within the historic museum, the workshop offers a unique combination of festive magic and family fun. With limited tickets each day, booking in advance guarantees your spot for this truly enchanting Yorkshire Christmas experience.
Cannon Hall Farm
Where: Cannon Hall, Cawthorne, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S75 4AT
When: November 22nd 2025 – December 24th 2025
Prices: Children ( 2 and over ) – £32.95 (includes toy), Adults from £16.95
Cannon Hall Farm is one of Yorkshire’s most beloved family destinations, famous for its charming animal encounters and endless fun for little ones. During the festive season, the farm transforms into a magical winter wonderland, offering a Santa experience that includes full-day access to the farm.
The adventure begins as you board a magical elevator that seems to whisk you through the clouds straight to Santa’s traditional grotto. After meeting Santa, the fun continues at the Toy Factory, where children can meet the North Pole Elves, see a real reindeer up close, and choose a special gift to take home.
Children’s tickets (ages two and up) start at £32.95, with adult tickets from £16.95. For an extra £5 per person, you can upgrade to the VR Santa’s Magical Sleigh Ride, adding an exciting, immersive twist to an already enchanting day.
Tickets must be booked online in advance, which will give you both your farm entry time and a scheduled slot for the Santa’s Magic Elevator experience.
The Polar Express at Wensleydale Railway
Where: Departs from Leeming Bar Station
When: November 13th 2025 to 23rd December 2025
Price: Ticket prices vary from £35.95 to £50.95, depending on the date of booking
If you’re looking for a truly magical Christmas adventure, the Polar Express at Wensleydale Railway is hard to beat. In 2025, the festive train runs from 13th November to 23rd December, and tickets are in high demand, so booking early is essential.
Board the train at Leeming Bar Station and settle in for a journey through the stunning Yorkshire Dales. As you travel, children can sip on hot chocolate, enjoy freshly baked cookies, and sing along with characters from the beloved movie. The team bring the story to life with storytelling, songs, and plenty of festive fun.
The highlight of the journey comes when Santa and one of his elves board the train. Each child receives a special silver sleigh bell, just like in the film, creating a magical keepsake to treasure for years.
Tickets for 2025 vary depending on the date, typically from £38 to £55 per person, with early booking recommended to secure your spot.
Whether you’re a fan of The Polar Express or simply want an unforgettable festive day out, this enchanting train ride is one of the most memorable Christmas experiences in Yorkshire.
Father Christmas in the Castle
Where: Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
When: From 22nd November 2025
Price: Father Christmas in the Castle: From £65 per child, with adult tickets priced slightly lower (includes show, gift, and house access)
Castle Howard is one of Yorkshire’s most iconic family destinations, and at Christmas it’s transformed into a truly magical experience. In 2025, the Father Christmas in the Castle experience runs from 22nd November to 24th December, and tickets are already selling fast.
The day starts with a lively festive show featuring Santa, Mrs Claus, and friends. Children then get an individual moment with Father Christmas, and every child with a ticket receives a special gift. For those booking the full experience, tickets also include access to the house and gardens, where this year’s main attraction, Christmas at Castle Howard – The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, brings the story’s colourful characters to life with immersive theatrical installations, projections, and soundscapes. It’s one of the most magical things to do in York at Christmas.
For families who want a shorter or lower-cost option, there’s also Santa’s Grotto in the Boathouse. This includes a short performance by the Story Craft Theatre, a gift from Santa, and entry to the adventure playground and gardens, so there’s still plenty to see and do after the experience.
Mother Shipton’s Cave
Where: Mother Shipton’s Cave, Prophecy Lodge, High Bridge, Knaresborough HG5 8DD
When: November 23rd 2024 – December 24th 2024
Price: Magical Christmas family ticket (covers up to 5 people): £38–£44. Additional child ticket for the Santa experience: £14–£17
Mother Shipton’s Cave is one of Yorkshire’s most enchanting festive destinations, and in 2025, it’s back with its Magical Christmas experience from 23rd November to 24th December. This charming event combines the beauty of winter woodland with a truly personal visit to Father Christmas.
As you wander through the snow-dusted woodland paths, you’ll arrive at a magical Christmas village. Santa’s chief elf, Chestnut, will greet you warmly before guiding you to a beautifully decorated grotto for a personal encounter with Father Christmas himself. Every child leaves with a special gift, making this a day to remember.
The festive displays are full of charm and detail, with twinkling lights, seasonal decorations, and a wonderfully cosy atmosphere. To make the experience even sweeter, the village offers hot chocolates, gingerbread biscuits, and marshmallows for toasting over the crackling Christmas fire.
Christmas at Stockeld Park
Where: Stockeld Park, Wetherby LS22 4AN
When: 16th November 2025 – 6th January 2026
Price: Silver Package from £21, Gold Package from £30
What better place to meet Santa than in the heart of an enchanted forest, twinkling with dazzling lights and captivating projections? Each year, Stockeld Park transforms into a Winter Wonderland packed with festive fun, including the family-friendly ice rink and the Snowflake Maze—a frosty labyrinth full of twists and turns.
For 2025, there’s even more magic with the addition of a brand-new interactive Christmas show at the onsite theatre. Guests of all ages can take part, join the festive fun, and even become honorary Christmas elves.
The festivities kick off as Mr and Mrs Claus arrive in a unicorn-drawn carriage, leading a sparkling parade through the Enchanted Forest before Santa settles into his cosy grotto to greet children and hand out gifts.
Visitors can choose from different experience packages depending on what they want from their day:
- Silver Package: Access to Santa’s grotto, Winter Illuminations, Snowflake Maze, and the Enchanted Forest.
- Gold Package: Everything in the Silver Package, plus exclusive access to the live Christmas show.
With magical lights, interactive activities, and a visit from Santa himself, Stockeld Park offers a Christmas Adventure that will delight the whole family and create memories to last a lifetime.
Father Christmas at Bolton Abbey
Where: Bolton Abbey, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 6EX
When: November 22nd to December 23rd
Prices: Child tickets: £32.50 for 22/23 Nov, £37.00 for 29/30 Nov, and £40.00 for dates 6/7/13/14/20/21/22/23 Dec. Adult tickets: £12.00 (each booking must include at least one adult). Older sibling (child) ticket: £10.00 (no gift included)
Father Christmas returns to the picturesque Bolton Abbey this festive season with an enchanting adventure in the Strid Wood Christmas Village. This is not just a quick grotto visit. In 2025, the village has been transformed into a festive bushcraft haven where children can fully immerse themselves in the magic of Christmas.
The adventure begins as children are welcomed by traditional woodland guides and the village fire is lit. From there, the day continues with hands-on activities such as candle-making, natural crafts, and woodland games, creating a truly unique Santa experience in Yorkshire.
Each family is called individually to Santa’s grotto where children can meet Father Christmas, take photos, and share their Christmas wishes. Afterwards, families gather around the crackling fire for storytime with Santa and his elves while enjoying hot chocolate they have prepared themselves. Every child receives a special gift and takes home the festive crafts they have made.
The Christmas Village is exclusive to ticket holders so booking in advance is essential. Parking is available at the Riverside car park and the village is just a scenic 15-minute walk away. Most of the experience is outdoors so warm clothing and comfortable footwear are essential for a cosy and magical winter day out.
Father Christmas Experience at Harewood House
Where: Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG
When: 29th November – 24th December 2025
Prices: Children – £38 for a standard ticket, £46 for a premium ticket. Adults – £38
After a sell-out season in 2024, Father Christmas returns to Harewood with a brand-new adventure, and this year it promises to be even more magical. Step into a world of wonder as your family joins Father Christmas and his merry band of elves in preparing for a once-in-a-century celebration: The North Pole’s Royal Ball.
Children become part of the festive preparations, helping Father Christmas choose an enchanted outfit for this extraordinary event. The experience is filled with storytelling, laughter, and unforgettable festive moments. Each child will enjoy a personal meeting with Father Christmas, receive a special gift, and help bring the magic of the season to life.
Set within the beautifully decorated grounds of Harewood, this immersive Santa experience combines interactive fun, festive mischief, and traditional Christmas magic. Tickets include access to Harewood House’s gardens and parking, making it a full family day out in one of Yorkshire’s most spectacular locations.
The Christmas Experience at Lotherton Hall
Where: Lotherton Hall, Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds LS25 3EB
When: 22nd November 2025 – 5th January 2026
Prices: Christmas Experience (without Santa visit) – Adult £12, Child £7, Free for children under 2; Santa’s North Pole Santa – £19.50; Santa’s Cabin – £11. All visitors require admission to the Christmas Experience.
This enchanting Edwardian hall in Aberford offers one of Yorkshire’s most magical Santa experiences. Visitors can wander through an illuminated woodland, explore the whimsical Elf Village, and enjoy festive magic shows and Christmas crafts.
For older children, weekends and late afternoons feature a 30–40 minute visit to Santa In The North Pole for £19.50. Pre-schoolers can enjoy a more intimate experience at Santa’s Cabin on weekdays during term time for £11.
The woodland walk is a delight for little ones, with twinkling lights and hidden fairy whispers creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. For an extra special touch, families can listen to Mrs Claus’s heartwarming stories, craft keepsakes with the elves, or enjoy a dazzling festive magic show.
Lotherton Hall provides a perfect mix of interactive fun, festive storytelling, and Christmas magic, making it a wonderful day out for the whole family.
Magical Sleigh Rides Experience at Piglets Adventure Farm
Where: Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane, York YO32 9ST
When: 21st November – 24th December 2025
Prices: Children £15–£29, Adults £15–£29, Under 1 £10 (includes gift)
If you’re looking for one of Yorkshire’s most enchanting Santa experiences, Piglets Adventure Farm’s Magical Sleigh Rides has it all. Arrive at the Departure Lounge to enjoy pizza, waffles and festive treats before the real adventure begins. Kids will love the Polar Post Office, where they send off their Christmas wish lists, collect passports and take part in pre‑flight activities.
Next up is the interactive Elf Academy, where little ones see if they’ve got what it takes to become Santa’s recruits. Then, with their Magic Key in hand, children enter Santa’s Toy Shop, a wonderland of festive treats where they choose their special gift.
Finally, the whole family boards the enchanted sleigh and is whisked away through a winter wonderland to Santa’s secret woodland village. There you’ll meet Father Christmas in his cosy grotto, with plenty of crafts, farm animals and yuletide cheer throughout the experience.
This one promises family memories that last long after the final sleigh bell rings.
Christmas at Gulliver’s Valley
Where: Mansfield Road, Rotherham S26 5QW
When: Various dates from 16th November 2025
Prices: Smasher package from £25pp, Cracker Package from £32pp, Festive Breakfast from £31pp and Tinsel Tots from £9pp
Yorkshire’s Gulliver’s Valley pulls out all the stops for Christmas 2025, transforming the park into a sparkling winter wonderland full of festive rides, magical attractions, and Santa experiences for the whole family. There’s a package to suit everyone, whether you want a short visit, a full day of festive fun, or an overnight stay.
The Smasher Package includes access to Christmas-themed rides, a visit to Santa’s House, and a personal gift from the Elf Workshop. The Cracker Package builds on this with a festive show and a hot turkey or quorn roll to keep the whole family fueled for adventure. For an early start, the Festive Breakfast package offers a morning show, breakfast bap and drink, plus access to the rides and Santa’s grotto.
For younger children, the Tinsel Tots package runs on selected Mondays and Fridays. It includes indoor rides, a visit to Santa’s House and grotto, and a gift from the Elf Workshop, while adults can enjoy a mince pie and coffee.
For the ultimate Christmas experience, families can opt for a Santa Sleepover, staying overnight at the resort and enjoying extended access to rides, festive attractions, and Santa’s House.
Yorkshire Santa Experiences – FAQ
Q: When do Santa experiences start in Yorkshire?
Most Santa experiences begin in mid to late November and run until just before Christmas Eve. Popular venues like Harewood House, Stockeld Park, and Piglets Adventure Farm open from around 16–22 November.
Q: Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes. Many Yorkshire Santa experiences sell out quickly, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Booking online in advance guarantees your preferred date and time.
Q: Are there experiences for toddlers and young children?
Absolutely. Many venues, including Lotherton Hall and Gulliver’s Valley, offer tailored experiences for toddlers, such as Santa’s Cabin or Tinsel Tots, with gentler activities and smaller groups.
Q: What is included in a Santa experience ticket?
Most tickets include a personal visit with Father Christmas, a small gift for each child, and access to festive attractions or activities. Some packages also include meals, interactive shows, and crafts.
Q: Can adults go too?
Yes. All Santa experiences require at least one adult per booking, and many packages include treats for adults like mince pies, hot drinks, or access to shows.
Q: Are the experiences suitable for large families?
Yes. Most venues accommodate families of all sizes, and many offer family tickets or packages that cover multiple children. Some places also offer extra gift options for older siblings.
Q: Do experiences take place indoors or outdoors?
It varies. Some experiences, like Bolton Abbey and Stockeld Park, are mostly outdoors, so dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Others, like Harewood House and Lotherton Hall, include indoor grottoes and workshops.
Q: Are there festive activities beyond meeting Santa?
Yes. Most experiences include Christmas crafts, magic shows, woodland walks, festive rides, storytelling, and interactive elf activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Q: Can I combine a visit with other Christmas events?
Definitely. Many locations, including Castle Howard and Stockeld Park, include access to their gardens, illuminations, or theatrical Christmas shows as part of the ticket, making it a full day out.
Q: Are there overnight options or sleepovers?
Yes. Gulliver’s Valley and some other venues offer Santa Sleepover packages, where families can stay overnight and enjoy extended access to rides, festive activities, and Santa’s House.
Tips for Visiting Yorkshire Santa Experiences
1. Book Early
Many Yorkshire Santa experiences sell out quickly, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Booking online in advance ensures you get your preferred date and time, and avoids disappointment.
2. Dress for the Weather
Some experiences, like Stockeld Park and Bolton Abbey, are mostly outdoors. Warm clothing, waterproofs, and comfortable shoes are essential for enjoying the winter wonderland to the fullest.
3. Check Age Recommendations
Different venues have experiences tailored for toddlers, young children, or older kids. Look for options like Lotherton Hall’s Santa’s Cabin or Gulliver’s Valley Tinsel Tots if you’re visiting with little ones.
4. Arrive on Time
Many experiences operate in timed groups, so arriving a little early allows you to settle in, explore festive activities, and not miss any part of the adventure.
5. Plan for Extra Activities
Beyond meeting Santa, many venues offer crafts, shows, woodland walks, or festive rides. Check the schedule in advance so you can enjoy all the Christmas magic on offer.
6. Bring a Camera
These experiences are full of magical moments perfect for photos. Whether it’s meeting Father Christmas, exploring an illuminated woodland, or enjoying festive workshops, you’ll want to capture the memories.
7. Consider Meal Options
Some packages include festive snacks, hot chocolate, or meals. If not, plan for a break, especially with younger children, to keep energy levels high during your visit.
8. Check Accessibility
Many Yorkshire Santa experiences are family-friendly, but it’s worth checking accessibility options if you have a stroller, wheelchair, or need assistance during your visit.
9. Look Out for Special Packages
Venues like Gulliver’s Valley offer Santa Sleepovers or premium packages with extra activities and gifts. These can make your visit even more memorable and magical.
10. Enjoy the Whole Day
Many attractions, such as Castle Howard or Stockeld Park, include access to gardens, illuminations, or festive shows. Plan enough time to make the most of your day and experience the full magic of Christmas in Yorkshire.
