Where can we go to see Santa in London?

[muminthecity]

DD is 8 and I have a feeling this may be the last year that she still believes in Santa, so I really want to take her to a grotto. We usually go to Harrods or Selfridges, but I was too late to book Harrods this year and Selfridges don't seem to be doing one.

I am skint so can't afford the Hamleys extravaganza or any other 'experience' type thing. Just want a nice grotto where DD can sit on Santa's knee, have her picture taken and maybe get a little gift.

Any ideas?

I'm trying to remember the places I took my DC when they were younger.

Shopping centres will have a Grotto but there's usually a queue or you need to book well ahead.
About 5 years ago we took them to Bluewaters Winter Wonderland (they had a free Grotto but it needed pre-booked).

We went to Deal Castle one year - grotto and activities (free)

Steam trains - they did Santa Rides. Once they went to his cabin, on another he was on the train and came to sit with all the children.

And my DC are 14 and 11.6 now - but they've never been to one where they can sit on FC knee.
Sign of the times eh?

Selfridges stopped doing Father Christmas last year. Canary Wharf is good and they have loads of free activities such as bauble making, cup cake decorating, face painting. You need to queue early to see Father Christmas and I think it is £2 donation. There is also a good ice rink at Canary Wharf. Also Stratford Westfield has a grotto and always lots going on.

Thank you for the suggestions, bluewater and deal both a bit too far, but I will definitely look into canary wharf and Westfield.

We really enjoyed the Santa experience at Westfield Stratford last years. Wasn't mega expensive and felt really Christmassy with the ice rink next to it. Have a look online for more details. HTH

madame tussuads had one a few years ago and rainforest cafe do a great santa tea party which is LOVELY!

Thanks again for the suggestions - I think the Rainforest Cafe one is quite expensive, isn't it? Will have a look at the others.

Westfield Stratford City didn't have their bookings link open (but I reckon they will soon).

I don't know if the White City one does a Grotto too (I'll go and have a look,)

White City Westfields are on TicketMaster (£4 )

Try the one in Docklands Museum of London in Canary Wharf. It is a lovely little museum a 5 minute walk from canary wharf shopping centre & tube station. It's got brilliant facilities for families including a packed lunch room in the basement.

www.museumoflondon.org.uk/london-wall/whats-on/events-calendar/event-details/?eventID=6059

www.visitlondon.com/tag/christmas-grottos