Best Father Christmas / Grotto - London & SE

[skyzumarubble]

So holiday is over its time to start thinking about Christmas and I know the tickets will start going on sale soon...

I think this is the last year that 6yo DTs will TRULY believe so really want to go to a good one.

We have done Ruxley, Coolings and a crappy shopping centre one.

We are in SE London and prepared to travel for it. Is Hamleys worth it or is it crazy busy with queuing? I saw Leeds Castle had one last year but can't seem to find anything about it this year.

Any ideas appreciated!

Best one in London i have been to is Duke of York Square in sloane square. He looks like the real deal and you get a time to go and sit with other children in the grotto. You get a photo sent to you and a couple of sweets in a goodie bag. All free as well! Have been last 3-4 years. Booking is usually end of Oct and books up quick.

The grotto at Penshurst Place is my favourite.

It's a bit further away, but the Reindeer Farm is absolutely lovely, too.

Ooh thank you both!

I was coming on to say Ruxley (although the booking system is absolutely bonkers) but I see you've done that already

We go each year, and love it. Managed to get Xmas eve tickets last year and it was lovely

I got so pissed off with the Ruxley booking fiasco year before last I vowed never to go back!! Agree it was great though.

How I got Xmas eve I literally have no idea, I really hope they sort their booking system out this year as I really want to take DS back again