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Your Total Guide To entertainment

Santa's Grottos In Cardiff 2024

visit santa near cardiff

Christmas is here and it's time to celebrate the festive period like never before as Father Christmas makes his way to Cardiff. Santa's grottos are being set up all around Cardiff and the surrounding areas in 2024 so if you're looking for somewhere to take your little ones to meet Santa this year, then check out these Santa's Grotto events in Cardiff.

Check out the best Santa's Grottos in and around Cardiff for Christmas 2024 below...

Believe at St David's

Believe at St David's

About:  St David’s is hosting ‘Santa’s Magical Reindeer Grotto’ guests are welcomed into a mystical cavern where they’ll meet one of Santa’s trusted elves, McJingles, and the magical talking reindeer, Norbert, a small creature with big dreams. Immersed in the festive spirit, little ones will then be invited into Santa’s enchanting grotto to enjoy a one-to-one with the man in red himself, receiving a gift of an age-appropriate book and the opportunity to take away a photo of the occasion.

Dates/Times:  From 1st December 2023

  • Child - £14.00+BF
  • Adult - £6.00+BF

How to book:   Click here to book tickets!

Address:  Bridge Street, St David's Dewi Sant, Cardiff CF10 2EF

Santa at Cardiff Castle

Santa at Cardiff Castle

About:  This festive season, you can enjoy a Victorian Christmas in Cardiff Castle. Santa’s magical grotto is in the Black Tower, where he will be presenting gifts to children by the fireplace. Tickets also include a costumed guide around the castle’s apartments, a treasure hunt and a lantern trail. There’s even mulled wine biscuits, and 10% off in the Castle Christmas Shop. 

Dates/Times:  16th November - 2nd January 2024 from 10:30

Prices: Various, view here .

Address:  Cardiff Castle, Castle Street, Cardiff CF10 3RB

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Real Girls Travel

A multi-award winning staycation, travel and lifestyle blog

Your Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Cardiff

There are so many things to do in Cardiff at Christmas 2023. Unwrap the festive spirit of the Welsh capital! Dive into a winter wonderland with enchanting markets, dazzling lights, and heartwarming events. Explore restaurants that promise culinary delights, making this holiday season a feast for the senses. Here is a full round-up of what to expect during Christmas in Cardiff.

visit santa near cardiff

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Christmas in Cardiff 202 3

It was the night before Christmas, and the city was buzzing with excitement. The streets are lined with twinkling lights, and the air is filled with the sweet smell of mulled wine. Children are eagerly counting down until Santa arrives in cities around the world, leaving presents under their Christmas tree.

It’s time to get together and celebrate with friends – fire up the hot chocolate, admire the twinkling lights and remember the true joy of the season. Let’s make this Christmas in Cardiff one to remember!

Table of Contents

  • Cardiff Christmas Events

Cardiff Christmas Market

Pantomimes and festive shows, christmas parties in cardiff, festive afternoon tea, bottomless brunch, restaurants in cardiff, christmas eve cardiff.

  • Christmas Lunch in Cardiff

Boxing Day in Cardiff

New year celebration in cardiff, welsh christmas traditions, the hilton cardiff, plan a trip with expedia, create your itinerary, free visit cardiff checklist & guide.

Get your FREE Visting Cardiff Checklist and Guide with over 25 pages full of travel tips, how to get around, places to visit, food and drink, shopping, parks and green spaces, some Welsh phrases and a travel itinerary.

Is Cardiff good at Christmas?

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! I am biased, but Cardiff is a brilliant city that is truly magical at Christmas. The festive season begins as soon as  Beaujolais Day  is out of the way. Whether it’s something for the whole family, with friends or you and your partner, you will be spoilt for choice with things to do at Christmas in Cardiff.

Christmas at Bute Park 2023

The most extensive light trail in Wales has ever seen is Christmas at Bute Park Cardiff . This year, it takes place between 24 November and 1 January 2024. The park is taken over by dazzling light displays, interactive installations, a flickering fire and an enchanting fairy tree forest. Also, some of the best street food vendors can be enjoyed too. Fun for all the family!

🐾 Dog friendly

visit santa near cardiff

Cardiff Winter Wonderland

The annual  Christmas Winter Wonderland  is in the heart of the city centre, on the City Hall lawn. The Christmas festival will have familiar funfair rides, games and a big wheel. There’s plenty of food and drink on offer too. 

The Sur la Piste and Ski Lodge Bar are my favourites. Here is where you can grab a mulled wine or cider and festive food whilst enjoying the views of Cardiff from the outdoor roof terrace.

Do you have to pay to get into Cardiff Winter Wonderland? Entry is free. However, games, ice skating, food and drink are chargeable, and tickets are needed for the Ice Bar.

visit santa near cardiff

Cardiff Ice Bar

The Ice Bar is also brilliant fun. Enjoy a drink where it is chilled to minus 10 degrees, and absolutely everything is made of ice. The pre-timed slots in the sub-zero temperatures book fast, so get them well in advance.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Katrina Rohman (@realgirlswobble)

Christmas at Cardiff Castle 202 3

This year the Winter Wonderland events are spilling over to Cardiff Castle too, where you’ll find the ice rink and ice walk within the public square in the castle grounds. Get your skates on with family and friends, or enjoy a festive drink or feast under the twinkling lights in this magical setting. Entry is free. However, skating (pre-booking required), games, festive food and drink are chargeable. 

The Castle will also be decorated for Christmas if you want to explore beyond the walls. Tour the beautifully decorated apartments and learn about Victorian Christmas traditions. You can also meet Santa in the Castle’s Drawing Room, followed by seasonal treats in the library. 

Cardiff Christmas Festival

The Cardiff Christmas Festival and its iconic Spiegeltent is in the grounds of Sophia Gardens in the centre of Cardiff. Productions include Santa’s Wish, Castellana, Britain’s Got Talent musical theatre stars Welsh of the West End, Christmas Cracker Comedy Night and My My! ABBA. It’s ideal festive entertainment for all the family or to spend time with friends.

The Snow Trail

The Christmas Trail will get all family members in the festive spirit if you want free things to do in Cardiff this Christmas. The  Cardiff Bay Snow Trail  is the best opportunity to explore The Bay and track down eight snow-themed characters. There are prizes every week to be won. 

The launch event is on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December, at the Red Dragon Centre, between 12pm and 4pm. There are free games to play, including Snowball Splat and Narnia Ring Toss, and again you can win some prizes. Also, there’s face painting and photo boards to bag some pictures for the family memory book. 

Everywhere you can see Santa in Cardiff

There are many opportunities to see Father Christmas in Cardiff in November and December 2023. Family-friendly events happen all over the city. You could have breakfast with Santa, Sunday lunch with Santa or a traditional meet and greet in his grotto.  Where to see Father Christmas in Cardiff

Everywhere you can see Santa in Cardif

Cardiff Christmas Tree

You will find Christmas trees throughout the city centre, but the main one is located outside Cardiff Castle. The huge fir tree is decorated with giant string lights and sits alongside decorations along the castle battlements. There was a 40-foot artificial tree for a few years, which cost a whopping £30,000. It was dubbed ‘plastic fantastic’. However, the public did not like it, and Cardiff Council were under scrutiny. 

Christmas in Cardiff - Christmas tree outside Cardiff Castle in Wales

Christmas Lights Cardiff

When are the Christmas Lights on in Cardiff? The Christmas Lights in Cardiff are turned on for the first time on Thursday 9 November 2023. It is also when the Christmas Market and Winter Wonderland will open. 

When does the Christmas Market start in Cardiff? The Christmas Light switch on signals the start of the markets and late-night shopping in Cardiff. The 2023 dates are from Thursday 9 November until Saturday 23 December.

A huge range of craft stalls and food can be browsed throughout the day in Alpine-style huts. Where is the Christmas Market in Cardiff? Found on St John Street, Working Street, Hills Street, Trinity Street and the Hayes, known as the Festive Quarter. Over 200 individual businesses sell a wide variety of diverse arts and crafts, plus seasonal food and drinks each year.

🐾 Dog friendly including Cardiff Indoor Market. If you want to take your pooch Christmas shopping check out the dog friendly shops in Cardiff

Christmas in Cardiff - Cardiff Christmas Market

Late Night Shopping Cardiff

With large shopping centres, high street favourites, individual stores, and a thriving indoor market, Cardiff is the ideal destination for a shopping trip. The real highlight of Cardiff’s retail scene is the Victorian and Edwardian arcades, full of independent boutiques and cafes, worth a visit as architectural gems. n fact, Cardiff is known as the  City of Arcades . Cardiff Christmas shopping hours are extended in December, with the shopping centres open until 9pm.

Don’t forget about the incredible Boxing Day Sales!

Pre-book your parking and save!

There is an NCP car park across the road from The New Theatre. NCP Park Pass is an easy way to save money on parking. Not only do you access special parking deals, but you also don’t need to remember where you put the ticket collected at the barrier – mine always gets lost in the handbag. As payment is contact-free and cashless, you do it on your phone.

You can always pre-book your parking online and save money if that’s not your thing. Find a car park, choose your date and time, enter your details and make your payment. Once you’ve booked your parking online, you will receive a booking confirmation email detailing your booking and how to enter and exit the car park.

visit santa near cardiff

Food and Farmers Markets

The  Riverside Market  takes place every Sunday, throughout the year, opposite the Principality Stadium and along the River Taff. There’s also a Night Market on the last Wednesday of every month from 5pm-8pm. At Christmas, additional markets are put on to get you in the mood for the big day and to pick up last-minute gifts. More information is coming soon.

The  Insole Court Farmers Market  is on the last Sunday of the month between 9am-1pm. However, it has been moved earlier to 17 December 2023. There’s also a Christmas Market on 3 December 2023. You can expect local gins, chilli sauces, brownies, flowers and plants, and artisan pasta, as well as the hosts Harrison Teas, Llanblethian Orchards and Bang On Brewery. Whilst there, walk around the gardens, visit the house and the exhibition ‘This House is a Stage’. 

Christmas Market Cardiff Bay

There isn’t a Cardiff Bay Christmas Market. However, there are some shops where you can do some Christmas shopping.

The New Theatre  is the home of the pantomime in Cardiff. The 2023 panto is Jack and the Beanstalk with Lesley Joseph and Mike Doyle. The show will be packed full of classic pantomime ingredients and innuendo. There are also accessible performances, plus audio-described, British Sign Language, captioned and relaxed. 

The big show at the Wales Millennium Centre this year is  Disney’s Aladdin  running from 7 December to 14 January 2024. Featuring iconic music, including Friend Like Me, Arabian Nights, and A Whole New World. With astonishing special effects, over 350 lavish costumes and a fabulous cast and live orchestra, Aladdin is going to be an exciting show.

Cardiff Santa & Elf Dash 202 3

Want to see lots of Santa’s? The Santa Run Cardiff, or Santa Dash Cardiff, as some call it, is an annual running event. This year it is taking place on Sunday 3 December 2023, starting at 11am. Walk, run or support those raising money for charity. Children, pushchairs and dogs are welcome.

You are always guaranteed a good time in Cardiff.  Bingo Lingo at Depot  is a firm favourite with my colleagues, as it doesn’t have to be a boozy affair. It’s an excellent opportunity to wear your Christmas jumper too. 

The Best Bars in Cardiff. Cocktail bars in Cardiff - The Botanist

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Afternoon teas are composed of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, plus cakes and sweet treats. During December, the  Cardiff restaurants  and cafes put a festive twist on their usual offers.

Afternoon tea in Cardiff | Afternoon tea in Caerphilly | Afternoon tea in Pontypridd

Christmas in Cardiff - Festive afternoon tea

Picture this: a perfect blend of merry ambience, delectable brunch offerings, and free-flowing festive cheer. Christmas is the perfect time to indulge in bottomless delights.

Bottomless Brunch in Cardiff | Bottomless Brunch in Pontypridd | Bottomless Brunch in Bridgend

visit santa near cardiff

Get 50% off food  in Cardiff

If you love food and drink, do you have a Tastecard ? You get 50% off the food bill or two meals for the price of one. There are over six thousand participating restaurants across the UK. Get a 60-day free trial here:

visit santa near cardiff

Cardiff is a foodie’s delight. From the quality of the produce to the level of cooking, at both the casual and cheap eats, Cardiff is staking a serious claim to being one of the most exciting places to eat in the UK.

visit santa near cardiff

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I used to love Christmas Eve in Cardiff. It was wild! The bars would be open until midnight, with DJs keeping you on the dancefloor. Now, this isn’t the case, and it is a much more subdued affair. These days, I head to our favourite  dog friendly pub in Cardiff .

Christmas Lunch in Cardiff 

If you want to eat out on Christmas Day, there are plenty of festive menus. Popular venues sell out in advance, and wherever you go, you’ll need to provide a pre-order for everyone. If you wish to eat locally, in the city centre or Cardiff Bay, it’s recommended to book early. 

Most pubs and restaurants will open if you’re not done eating out. For example,  Thomas Restaurant  has a 3-course Boxing Day menu for £19 per person. The big clubs such as Tiger Tiger, Pryzm and Revolution host a Boxing Day party. 

Many people like to brave the weather, head to the  beaches near Cardiff , and participate in a Boxing Day Swim.  Cardiff City Football Club  are playing Plymouth Argyle on Boxing Day, kicking off at 3pm. Cardiff Rugby are against The Dragons. Kick-off is at 3pm. 

Of course, the Boxing Day sales start. Bargain hunters like to queue for hours outside Next on Queen Street before it opens at 6am. Retailers across the board can offer up to 50% off items, including clothes, shoes, books and games.

If you want to go out on New Year’s Eve in Cardiff, expect to buy an entrance ticket in advance. Including local pubs and clubs. However, most hotels will have a party night, including food and entertainment. Some of these are family-friendly, but most are adult-only.

At City Hall and Winter Wonderland, the New Year starts with a bang. The full firework display starts at midnight. This is a free event. UPDATE – in 2023, this event is not taking place.

Taxis aren’t expensive on New Year’s Eve either; you can expect a £5 additional fare. Cardiff Bus is free throughout the day, and some routes run until 1am. If you choose to put money in the box, the driver gets to keep this. Did you know that Cardiffians thank the driver as they get off the bus? It’s just one of the  things the Welsh say .

Getting around Cardiff has never been easier

Transport for Wales  now offers Multiflex, which gives you 12 journeys for the same price as 5 returns. With stops in  Taffs Well , Radyr,  Whitchurch , Llandaff North , Cathays, two in the city centre – Queen Street and Cardiff Central – plus Cardiff Bay . And, who doesn’t want to save money to spend on Christmas?

visit santa near cardiff

We all do Christmas in our own way. From spending time with family and friends to taking a tropical holiday. Or cooking, baking and gift exchanges. I also love how ancient Christmas traditions, some of which date back centuries, are still entwined in our modern celebrations.  Weird and Wonderful Welsh Christmas Traditions

When was the last white Christmas in Cardiff?

On Christmas Eve 1981, people in Wales woke up to snow that would stick around until early February. It was also the only year in the 20th century when over half of the UK experienced a white Christmas. 

How do you say Merry Christmas in Welsh?

Nadolig Llawen. Nadolig means Christmas, and Llawen means joyful.

Stay the Night

If you don’t want to worry about getting a taxi home on Beaujolais Day, try to book in advance and as soon as possible. Prices tend to rise the closer you get to the travel date. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets. 

easyHotel Cardiff

The  easyHotel Cardiff  is a 10-minute walk from the theatre. It has double rooms (with or without a window), accessible bedrooms and twin rooms. Found a short walk behind Cardiff Queen Street train station, the budget hotel has en-suite bathrooms, heated rooms in the winter and air conditioning in the summer. WiFi is free; pay and display and multi-storey car parks are nearby.

visit santa near cardiff

Radisson Cardiff

The Radisson Blue Hotel Cardiff is in the city centre. The 4-star hotel has smart TVs in the bedrooms, private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, laptop-compatible safes, and limited onsite parking.

visit santa near cardiff

Dog friendly hotels in Cardiff

Your perfect dog-friendly escape in Cardiff awaits! Before I had my rescue dog, Ivan, I didn’t think Cardiff was very dog friendly. How wrong was I? The dog friendly hotels in Cardiff include national chain hotels, budget brands, pubs and country houses.

The Copthorne

The Copthorne , part of Millennium Hotels and Resorts, is a traditional 4-star hotel in Cardiff that is ideally located between the city centre and the coast of Barry Island. Ideal for business travellers, couples or families, it is a perfect base. You can expect free Wi-Fi, an indoor pool and modern in-room amenities. Book early and save up to 20% off:

visit santa near cardiff

For a luxurious stay, The Hilton Cardiff, in the heart of the city centre, has beautiful amenities, including a pool and health club. With Hilton Honors , you get exclusive perks when you stay at more than 6,700 hotels around the world. Members receive Points on every stay, which can be turned into free nights.

Endless Possibilities

Booking a hotel via Expedia is a seamless experience that offers convenience and choice at your fingertips. With just a few clicks, you can browse through a wide array of cosy boutique hotels to luxurious resorts, tailored to your preferences and budget. Compare prices, read reviews from fellow travellers, and explore amenities, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay for your trip.

Using TripAdvisor when booking a hotel allows you to access a wealth of reviews and ratings from fellow travellers, helping you make an informed decision on where to stay, while also providing recommendations and insights on planning things to do during your trip.

View deals on Tripadvisor

The surrounding areas

Don’t be afraid of staying out of central Cardiff, either. Penarth, Barry,  Caerphilly , Pontypridd , and Merthyr Tydfil are the surrounding areas connected by regular buses and trains.  You can also plan with LastMinute.com . Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price.

visit santa near cardiff

National Trust Holidays

National Trust Holidays offer a selection of holiday cottages, campsites and bunkhouses set in spectacular locations. They have everything you need for a night away, from kitchen facilities to cosy gardens to relax in during warmer weather.

Get 15% off selected cottages for bookings made and taken by 31 May 2024. Use discount code NTAF .

visit santa near cardiff

Cottages and Houses

The award-winning business, Sykes Cottages, has properties across the UK, and the ones near Cardiff are beautiful. From cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages .

visit santa near cardiff

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Santa and Christmas experiences in Wales ranked from most expensive to cheapest

There are many different places you can meet Santa this year including Believe at St David's shopping centre, Fonmon Castle, the Principality Stadium

  • 15:24, 1 DEC 2022
  • Updated 16:43, 2 DEC 2022

visit santa near cardiff

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Many families might be feeling the pinch ahead of Christmas 2022 as the cost of living continues to rise. This means the cost of Christmas activities, like meeting Santa, might need to be carefully considered to find the best deal.

There are plenty of Christmas activities you can enjoy in Wales, you can read our bumper guide, here and many different places you can meet Santa including Believe at St David's shopping centre, Fonmon Castle, the Principality Stadium and GreenWood Family Park. Some range in price from others, in some cases depending on what else you may get in the experience.

READ MORE: First look at Christmas at Bute Park as festive light trail opens in Cardiff for 2022

Here are the Santa and Christmas experiences we found in Wales ranked most to least expensive. You can keep up to date with the latest What's On news by signing up to the newsletter here.

Santa's Tea Party at Celtic Manor, Newport

Father Christmas at Celtic Manor Resort

The luxury hotel Celtic Manor, near Newport, is hosting a Santa's Tea Party on selected dates in November and December. Prices range from £28 to £40 for adults and £18 to £33 for children, depending on which date you go.

Included in the package is festive afternoon tea, individual meeting and picture with Santa, festive activity packs and a gift from Santa. You can find out more here.

Tea with Santa at Fonmon Castle, Vale of Glamorgan

Giving customers access to Festive Lights, Santa Shows, Mrs Claus, The Magician, the owls and all the festive elves you can enjoy tea with Santa at Fonmon Castle. Customers will also have a private meet and greet with Santa and tea with Santa.

Tickets range from £30 to £40 for adults, £20 to £30 for children and £10 for children aged under three. You can book your ticket here.

Family Festive Lunch at Maes Manor, Blackwood

Mae's Manor in Blackwood is hosting a family festive lunch on Wednesday, December 7 and Wednesday, December 8. Guests will be eating a freshly cooked festive roast with all the trimmings in the ballroom.

There will also be party games, and a children's disco and each child will then be invited to meet with the man himself Santa, by his lovely warm log fire. Tickets cost £27.95 for adults and £13.95 for children and you can call 01495220011 to book.

It wouldn't be Winter Wonderland without some proper old-fashioned fairground rides

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visit santa near cardiff

The best pictures from the magical Swansea Christmas Parade 2022

The Ffestiniog Railway

You can meet Santa on a train!

There are two ways to meet Santa at Ffestiniog Railway in north Wales, the first is at the Welsh Highland Railway where Santa Specials will be run between Caernarfon Station to Rhyd Ddu. You will board the train at Caernarfon Station, collect your Christmas hamper, and then enjoy the treats on your train journey which will take you through the stunning Snowdonia National Park.

Santa and his elves will be aboard the train saying hello and handing out gifts during the service which runs on selected dates from Sunday, December 4, to Friday, December 23. Tickets start at £23.50 for adults and children and £4.50 for babies and you can book tickets online, here.

The second way to meet Santa is from Porthmadog Harbour Station, where you will find Santa in his Christmas Carriage Grotto. Santa will be in his grotto on selected dates from Saturday, December 10, to Friday, December 19, and Wednesday, December 23, and tickets start at £4.50.

To meet Santa you will need to pre-book, which you can do online here. You can read more about festive and Santa train rides here.

Santa Specials at Gwili Railway

Meeting Santa is a highlight for many children at Christmas and meeting him on a steam train is even more magical. This steam ride at Gwili Railway in Carmarthenshire includes a meet with Santa, present, drink and snack for children, and mince pie and sherry for adults.

Running every weekend in December tickets start at £9.95 for children aged two and under and £22.50 for children aged three and over and for adults. You can book your tickets here.

Enchanted Forest at GreenWood Family Park

In north Wales, in Y Felinheli you will be able to enjoy wandering through the illuminated forest and meet Santa in his cosy cottage. Tickets cost £18 for adults, £22 for children and £6 for babies aged under 12 months. You can book here.

The Brecon Mountain Railway

You can travel to Santa's grotto with The Brecon Mountain Railway

This Santa special has been running for 33 years and starts at Pant Station in Merthyr Tydfil where you board a steam train and travel to Santa's grotto in Pontsticill. Here children will receive a present from Santa and adults will be served mulled wine and mince pies - a definite win-win!

The Santa Special train will be running on selected dates from Saturday, November 26, to Thursday, December 15. Tickets are £20.75 per adult, £17.75 per child, and babies under two are free. You can book your tickets to meet Santa here.

Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway

Travelling through mid-Wales and meeting Santa is possible thanks to the Santa Specials at Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway. Boarding the train at Llanfair Caereinion you can stay warm and cosy in the heated carriages and you will then meet Santa during the 50-minute train journey.

Every child will receive a gingerbread man and a juice carton, while adults can enjoy a hot mince pie and a non-alcoholic hot seasonal drink. Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway has not increased its prices since 2021, meaning adult and child tickets are £19.50 and infants under one go free.

This train ride will be running on the first three weekends of December and Monday, December 19. You have to book beforehand, which you can do here.

Tea with Santa at The Plough, Llandeilo

The Plough is a country hotel near Llandeilo and they have invited Santa over for tea, where children and adults get a meal, whilst children also get to meet Santa and have a present. Tickets cost £19 for children, aged under 12, and £14 for adults. You can book here.

Breakfast with Santa at Future Inns, Cardiff

You can enjoy breakfast with Santa at Future Inns in Cardiff Bay. There will be a Welsh brunch, meet and greet with Santa in his grotto and Christmas stories and games.

Tickets cost £19 per person, £9.50 for those under 12 and children aged two and under go free. You can book your tickets here.

Lots of places are giving out gifts with Santa visits

At the Llechwedd ZipWorld site is Zipmas where you can visit Santa in his Christmas Grotto which is 500ft underground. The experience comes with a mince pie, hot chocolate and slate bauble decorating. You can book your tickets here. Prices are from £18 - if you want to add on a golf game you'll pay £30.

Rheilfford Gwili Railway

Starting and returning from Bronwydd Arms station, near Carmarthen, you can enjoy a steam train ride alongside Santa. Children under 11 will receive a present from Santa and everyone can pose for a photo with Santa while the train journey lasts around one hour and a half.

You can hop on board the Santa Special train on selected dates from Saturday, December 3, to Christmas Eve. Tickets start are £17 for adults and £4 for children and you book your tickets here.

Brunch with Santa at Llandegfedd Lake

visit santa near cardiff

Arriving on his own personal speedboat, you can enjoy brunch with Santa at Llandegfedd Lake, near Newport. After a brunch, children will be invited to the café balcony to witness Santa’s speedy arrival. He will then join them in the café to chat with the children individually and give them all a gift.

Tickets cost £16.95 for children and £12.95 for adults and the brunch is running every weekend from Saturday, December 3 to Sunday, December 18. You can book your tickets here.

Rhyl Miniature Railway

Rhyl Miniature Railway has been running for more than 100 years and this Christmas you can meet Santa on this sweet smaller railway on their Santa Specials. The Santa Specials are running on selected dates from Saturday, December 3, until Christmas Eve.

Tickets are £12 for adults and £4 for children and you can book your tickets here.

Gower Fresh Christmas Trees

There is lots to enjoy at Gower Fresh Christmas Trees this Christmas

At Gower Fresh Christmas Trees there are loads of different scenes to see inside and families are welcome to take as many photos as they want. There is a sleigh you can sit in with your family for a lovely seasonal photograph.

Tickets for Winter Wonderland and Santa's Grotto cost £7.65 for adults and £16.75 for children. A family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) costs £44.95. You can book your tickets here.

The Royal Mint Christmas Experience, Llantrisant

The Royal Mint is hosting its own Christmas experience. At The Royal Mint Christmas Experience, visitors will take a tour of the festive coin factory and all children will meet Santa and have the opportunity to have their photo taken, before leaving with a special gift to take home.

Running from Saturday, November 26 to Saturday, December 24 tickets cost £10 for adults and £15 for children. You can book here.

Christmas experience at Forage Farm, Vale of Glamorgan

There is Christmas cheer at Forage Farm

Forage Farm will be running its Christmas experience on selected dates in December. There will be a Christmas show with a cheeky Christmas elf and the chance to meet Father Christmas.

Tickets cost £10.50 for adults, £12.50 for children, and £2 for children aged under three. You can book your tickets here.

Santa Experience at Principality Stadium

Santa is coming to the Principality Stadium and for the first time in the stadium’s history, Santa will be taking over the Wales team home changing room for December. After two years the Santa Experience is back at the Principality Stadium and will be running from Friday, December 2 to Christmas Eve.

Tickets are £10 for adults and £12 for those under 16s, which includes a free gift from Santa. Or family tickets are available for £40 for two adults and two children. You can book here.

Mumbles Pier

Santa has lots of helpers at Mumbles Pier

You can visit Santa himself at Mumbles Pier when the Christmas Grotto has been opened since Saturday, November 19. There are loads of festive events on for the family at Mumbles Pier this year.

You can have breakfast or a tea party with Santa and his elves, make gingerbread houses with Mrs Claus, visit Santa's workshop and enjoy a festive afternoon tea with the family.

Some events in December have already sold out so book in advance to avoid missing out on these festive events on the pier. A visit to Santa's Grotto costs £12.99 for children and £4 for adults. You can add a festive afternoon tea for £5.95 per child and £12.99 per adult. Book your tickets here.

Santa's Toy Mine at Rhondda Heritage Park

Santa is back at the Rhondda Heritage Park

Santa and his amazing Toy Mine are returning to A Welsh Coal Mining Experience at Rhondda Heritage Park for 2022. As well as a magical tour filled with Christmas surprises, the event will also include themed activities such as writing a letter to Santa, which will take place in small log huts scattered throughout the site.

Tickets will cost £11 per person or £3 for babies aged 18 months and under. You can book your tickets here.

Zoar's Ark Gift and Garden Centre, Neath

You can visit Santa in his Grotto at Zoar's Ark Gift and Garden Centre in Neath this Christmas. Each visit costs £10 per child and includes a gift (maximum of four children per visit). Call 01639642180 or click here to book.

IKEA Cardiff

Noah’s Ark Charity’s award-winning Santa’s Grotto at IKEA Cardiff is back! No need to book, just come along and enjoy the magic and meet Santa in his cosy log cabin.

Running from Saturday, November 26 to Friday, December 23, your £10 entry fee will go directly to making sure that children at the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales receive the best possible care this Christmas.

Bodafon Farm, Llandudno

Santa Claus is back at Bodafon farm in Llandudno, with Mrs Claus and the elves. £10 per child will include a visit to Santa's Grotto, a present, lots of games, activities, arts and crafts, glitter tattoos, decorating cookies with Mrs Claus and a ride on the tractor. Click here to book.

Believe Christmas grotto, Cardiff

The Believe Christmas grotto is in St David's Centre

Believe, the enchanted Christmas experience is returning to St David’s shopping centre in Cardiff for 2022. The Christmas grotto launched at St David’s Cardiff for the first time in 2021 and, due to popular demand, is set to make a return this year.

Believe will open daily from Friday, November 25, right up until Christmas Eve and invites guests into a mystical cavern to meet McJingles, one of Santa’s most trusted elves, along with Norbert, his magical reindeer friend. After hearing Norbert’s story, the children will take part in a festive craft activity decorating their own bag of magical reindeer food to take home with them.

Families will then be invited into Santa’s grotto where little ones will meet Santa before receiving a gift, as well as having the opportunity to capture the memorable moment on camera. Tickets for Believe will go on sale at 10am on Friday, September 9.

Tickets cost £6 for children and £13 for adults and you can book your tickets on the St David's shopping centre website.

Santa's Grotto, Cardiff

Visit Santa once again this Christmas in his cosy log cabin located on Queen Street, Cardiff City Centre and there is no need to pre-book. This is a great value-for-money Santa experience at only £8.50 per child - this includes a gift and up to two free accompanying adults.

Each family will have a chance to have photos taken inside and an option to purchase them at the end of the visit. Prices start at £7, with a great selection of frames to choose from.

National Botanic Garden's Grotto, Carmarthenshire

Visit Santa in his grotto (£6 per child - accompanying adults free), post your letters to Santa, meet the owls who deliver the letters to Santa, meet Fudge the giant owl and play Christmas games, watch the Christmas Flying Shows at the Botanic Garden and British Bird of Prey Centre. You can book your tickets here.

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Santa Returns to Brand New ‘Believe’ Grotto at St David’s Cardiff

Friday 20 October 2023 · St David’s Dewi Sant

St David’s Cardiff is set to unveil a brand-new enchanting Santa experience this Christmas.

Opening on 1 st December, Believe at the city shopping destination, will have a magical makeover for 2023 with a new story, theming and family activities but, most importantly, children will still get to meet Santa!

On arrival, guests to Believe will discover Santa’s enchanting post room where they’ll be immersed in festivity and fun with the mischievous elves as they sort through Santa’s letters from children around the world ready for the big day. Children will be able to decorate their own delicious Christmas gingerbread treat* and capture Christmas cheer at the Elfie Selfie posting point before being invited to meet the big man himself. Families will be hosted personally by Santa in his warm, cosy study where they can share their Christmas hopes and dreams, pose for professional photographs as well as receiving a special present to take home.

Believe at St David’s Cardiff will open to guests on Friday 1 st December right up until Christmas Eve.  The grotto will be located on the lower level of the Grand Arcade, next to the LEGO store and opposite Menkind.

Tickets for Believe 2023 will be on exclusive pre-sale for registrants on Tuesday 19 th September before going on general sale on Thursday 21 st September.

Helen Morgan, Centre Director of St David’s Cardiff, commented: “This is our third year hosting Believe at St David’s and we can’t wait to welcome Santa back again! This year, the grotto has been transformed to offer a brand-new exciting experience for guests where children can explore Santa’s post room with his jolly elves before decorating cookies and finally meeting Santa himself. Along with our new stunning Christmas decorations across St David’s, guests are in for a real treat this festive season.”

Guests are advised to book tickets for Believe early to avoid disappointment.

Find out more about what’s happening over Christmas 2023 in Cardiff.

visit santa near cardiff

09 Apr 2024

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04 Apr 2024

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22 Mar 2024

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20 Mar 2024

Live Music to provide City Soundtrack this weekend

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2019 – Where to see Santa in Cardiff and South Wales

Getting to meet Santa is an amazing experience, whether you’re in Wales or the North Pole. Every year Christmas brings a lot of magic and joy to our little ones, and for them, part of the innocence of Christmas is seeing Santa. Whether your child believes Santa is real or understands it’s more of a “In the spirit of Christmas” thing, there’s a lot of fun to be had by playing in fake snow, looking at pretty lights, enjoying some sweet treats and a hot chocolate, and receiving a gift. For parents, a Santa’s Grotto visit offers some great photographic opportunities. Get those cameras out and get snapping! I’d have loved to visit Father Christmas in South Wales as a child and these Santa’s Grotto’s will fill your whole family with delight.

These do get pretty packed and it’s advisable to book as early as possible, especially if you’re thinking of visiting on a weekend.

This where to see Santa or Father Christmas in Cardiff and South Wales guide was written in 2017 and 2018 and I’ve had positive feedback ever since. In 2019 I’m publishing this guide earlier than ever to try and help you get all the information you need. It will be updated regularly as new information is published.

Time of last update: 7th October 2019

Due to requests for updates and more information, in 2019 I have created a Christmas Mailing List. You will only be emailed updates to posts regarding Christmas events if you sign up for this email list.

Enter your email and hit enter/return key.

Always contact the business for confirmation before traveling to see Santa!

Visit Santa in Cardiff

Christmas around the world at pugh’s garden center, radyr. tickets on sale. weekday tickets still available 25th nov – 18th dec..

Weekend tickets sold on the first day for this ridiculously popular multiple-room Santa visit this year titled “Christmas around the World”, but week day tickets were still available at last update. Children £17, Adults £5 each. Book direct here.

Santa’s Ice Adventure at Pugh’s Garden Center, Wenvoe. Dates to be announced.

Tickets are not yet on sale for “Santa’s Ice Adventure” at Pugh’s Garden Center, Wenvoe but it shouldn’t be too long!

Victorian Christmas at Cardiff Castle. Various dates between 14th November and 23rd December. TICKETS ON SALE.

New for 2019 at Cardiff Castle is “Santa’s Victorian Castle”, a candlelit evening of festive family fun in the Victorian apartments, culminating in a Candy Cane Trail and visit with Santa with gifts. Children £12.95 and adults £6.95. Various dates and times between 14th Nov and 23rd December. They are all evening sessions at 30 minute intervals between 4pm and 6:30pm. Tickets go on sale 7th October. Full details here.

Father Christmas at Dyffryn Gardens. 6th to 15th December. TICKETS ON SALE.

Visit with Santa and Christmas Crafts in a beautifully decorated Manor. Dyffryn Gardens also has some amazing autumn and winter walks through the extensive gardens, as well as a large historic mansion to explore. Well worth a visit any time of year!

The Christmas trail is running from 16th November to 25th December, whilst the Meet Father Christmas event runs selected Friday, Saturday and Sunday dates from 6th to 15th December and costs £8 per child. Tickets on sale now. For more information or to book, visit the Dyffryn Gardens event page.

Santa Tours at the Principality Stadium. 4th – 24th December. TICKETS ON SALE.

Visit Santa in his Christmas Grotto after a mini stadium tour. £12 children, £8 adults, £36 family of four. For more details and to book tickets visit their website .

Father Christmas and Friends at St Fagan’s Museum. Weekends from 30th November to 22nd December. TICKETS ON SALE.

St. Fagans Museum is one of my must visit free places to visit in Cardiff and always has amazing Christmas events. Entry into St Fagan’s Museum is free (£5 car parking), and events cost between £5-7 per child, with meeting Father Christmas, cooking with Mother Christmas, Writing your Christmas Letters and Christmas Crafts with the Elves available. Full details about special Father Christmas weekends here.

Visit Santa in South Wales

Christmas weekend at mountain view ranch, caerphilly. 30th november & 1st december. tickets on sale..

On 30th November and 1st December Caerphilly Mountain View Ranch are having a Christmas weekend which includes photos with reindeers, sitting on Santa’s sleigh, a visit to Santa and a Christmas gift. Announcement here on their Facebook page.

Winter Wonderland and Santa’s Grotto at Gower Fresh Christmas Trees. TICKETS ON SALE.

Gower Fresh Christmas Trees is hosting a Winter Wonderland that culminates in meeting Santa and his reindeer. Sessions are available from 22nd November to 24th December with special VIP evenings on Tuesday evenings. Tickets are available now and priced between £10.50 to £20 for children and £4.50 to £9 for adults, with family tickets available..

Santa’s Grotto at Dan Yr Ogof Showcaves. 30th November – 24th December (Selected Dates) TICKETS ON SALE.

Located about an hour from Cardiff and north of Swansea, Dan-yr-Ogof Showcaves is a must visit. In 2019 the dates have been announced for 30th November, 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd and 24th December.

Price: Adults £15 includes hot drink and mince pie, 3-12 years £12 which includes Santa visit and a gift, 2 and under £6 which includes Santa and a gift. Tickets available at last update. For more information and to book, visit their Christmas website.

Santa’s Toy Mine at Rhondda Heritage Park. 23rd November – 24th December. TICKETS ON SALE.

Rhondda Heritage Park offers an authentic and historic mining experience in a beautiful setting about 30 minutes outside Cardiff. Santa’s Toy Mine at Rhondda Heritage Park is a unique underground Christmas experience for the whole family to enjoy. The kids will follow the clues, through the toy mine, sweet mine and ice cave, to meet Santa. £10 per person. Visit their website.

Santa Specials on the Brecon Mountain Railway. Various dates between 23rd November and 22nd December. TICKETS ON SALE.

For something really special, the whole family could meet Santa on board the Brecon Mountain Railway! All children an adults receive a gift, whilst adults are served minced pies and mulled wine. You’ll travel by steam train from Pant Station to Santa’s Grotto in Pontsticill where everyone gets to meet Father Christmas! Tickets on sale here.

Victorian Christmas at Aberdulais Falls, Neath. 13th & 20th December.

About 45 minutes from Cardiff, on 13th and 20th December Aberdulais Falls will offer Victorian Christmas visits between 5:30pm and 8pm which are free visits with normal admission prices applying to the attraction. Mr and Mrs Claus will be greeting the children and hosting a festive story-telling evening. Children can write their Christmas letters and take part in festive family activities. After a winter stroll head inside our new cafe, to indulge in some Christmas treats. Further details here.

Magical Wonderland at Cantref Adventure Park. Dates to be announced.

Cantref Adventure Park is located in Brecon, so will be under an hours drive from Cardiff. This is a big adventure farm and park, with plenty to do for the whole family – including heated indoor play areas ideal for the winter weather. Dates to be announced for 2019. In 2018 this ran on weekends in December.

Christmas at Lysaght, Newport. 15th, 22nd & 23rd December. TICKETS ON SALE.

On the 15th & 22nd December there are two sessions to visit Santa’s Grotto and see his reindeer for £10 per child whilst you can visit and feed the reindeer between 11am and 1pm for £5. On the 23rd December there are 6 sessions to Visit Santa’s Grotto between 10am and 4pm, at £8.50 per child.

Tickets were available at last update. Click here for more information or to book.

Visit Santa at Oxwich Bay Hotel, Gower Peninsula. 30th November – 24th December (Various dates). TICKETS ON SALE.

This beautiful hotel on the coast will be hosting afternoon and evening sessions where you can Visit Santa in his grotto, have your photo taken and receive a gift. Afternoon visits are free with a purchase of a child’s meal from the Festive menu, whilst evening visits include crafts, story, fancy dress and a 2 course meal. Adults £24.95, Kids £14.95

Various dates between 30th November and Tuesday 24th December, please visit their website for more details. Available to book now. Sold out on some dates.

Pyle Garden Village, Bridgend. 23rd November – 15th December (Weekends). TICKETS ON SALE

For £8.50 your child can visit “Steel Works Santa” in his grotto, which was voted number one place to visit Santa in Wales in 2018. There are only a maximum of 5 children per slot, which makes this one quite an intimate visit. Book here.

Christmas at Tredegar House, Newport. 30th November – 22nd December.

In 2018 you could visit Father Christmas at Tredegar House. However for 2019 they have announced Christmas at Tredegar house with no specific mention of a visit to Santa. It seems that the house will be decked out in festive decorations from 30th November to 22nd December but without a specific Santa’s Grotto in 2019.

Christmas at Greenmeadow Community Farm. Weekends 7th – 23rd December.

Father Christmas will be available to meet farm visitors between 10am and 4pm on the 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 20th, 21st, 22nd and 23rd December. More details here.

Non Grotto or Single Day Events where your children can still see or interact with Santa

7th, 14th, 21st, 23rd december 2019 – breakfast with santa and santa’s grotto at cedar tree farm, cardiff bay.

Breakfast will be served between 8am and 11am, with Santa joining the festivities between 9:30am and 11:30am. There will be a Grotto set up for photos and presents. Cost is £7.49 per child to visit the Grotto, plus your breakfast costs as you order on the day. Booking a table in advance is essential and payment is required in advance. See the Facebook Event Page for more information.

8th December 2019 – Cardiff Santa and Elf Dash, Cardiff Bay

On the 8th December thousands of people dressed as Santa will turn up for the Cardiff Santa and Elf Dash, which is a 5K race to raise money for Welsh Hearts. Warming up at 11:30am, the race will kick off at noon at Roald Dahl Pass. You can cheer from the sidelines and watch lots and lots of festive costumes whilst supporting a great cause. Whilst not strictly a Visit Santa event, it’s certainly a magical way of supporting charity at Christmas! This is a free event for spectators.

8th December 2019 – Santa Splash at Rhondda Sports Centre

Welsh Heart’s is proud to launch the first ever SANTA SPLASH event at Rhondda Sports Centre. The charity, which fundraisers for life saving Defibrillators throughout Wales and across RCT, is inviting the community to take part in a fundraising swimming event. Visit the Facebook Event Page for more information.

8th & 15th December 2019 – Sunday Lunch with Santa and Santa’s Grotto at Future Inns, Cardiff Bay

Running from 12pm to 4pm, this is a 3 course festive lunch with tea or coffee, children’s disco and a visit to Santa in his Grotto. It’s £19.95 for adults and over 12s, £9.95 for under 12s but free for under 5s! For more information visit their event page .

8th & 15th December 2019 – Sunday Lunch with Santa at The Exchange Hotel, Cardiff Bay

Culley’s Restaurant at the Exchange hotel will be hosting Santa for sunday lunch between 12pm and 2pm on Sunday December 8th and 15th. Cost is £25 per adult (3 course meal) and £15 per child (2 course meal and a gift from Santa). For more information visit their event page .

14th December 2019 – Help Santa at John Lewis, Cardiff.

On Saturday 14th December, 2 Wish Upon a Star are providing children’s entertainment in store from 10:30am to 12:30pm, culminating in a visit from Santa. This is a free event.

15th & 22nd December 2019 – Festive High Tea with Santa at Miskin Manor

Festive High Tea followed by a visit with Santa Claus, £23.50 per adult, £13.50 per child. Details and book here.

21st December 2019 – Festive Brunch with Santa at Miskin Manor

Join Father Christmas for a magical brunch and story telling at Miskin Manor. Adults £23.50, children £13.50. Details and book here.

17th & 18th December 2019 – Tea Time with Father Christmas at Parkway Hotel and Spa , Cwmbran

Details to be announced.

22nd December 2019 – Santa Sunday Lunch at voco, St David’s, Cardiff.

Children’s games, and an early visit from Santa Claus himself, with a special treat for the little ones at voco in St David’s, Cardiff. Adults £35, Children 3-12 years £17.50 and children 2 and under are free. See the Facebook Event Page for more information.

22nd December 2019 – Festive Sunday Lunch and Santa’s Grotto at New House Hotel, Cardiff

Enjoy a festive 3 course lunch a visit to Santa’s grotto and a fun disco for the little ones. Arrival from 12 noon, lunch from 12.30. £27.95 adult, £15.95 child. Visit the Facebook Event Page for more details / to book.

23rd December 2019 – Brunch with Santa at New House Hotel, Cardiff

Enjoy a Full Welsh cooked breakfast with all the trimmings with unlimited Tea or Cafetiere coffee. Presents from Santa and fun face painting or Glitter Tattoos. £14.95 adult, £12.95 child. Visit the Facebook Event page for more details / to book.

So what do you think? Are you going to be seeing Santa anywhere in South Wales this year?

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  1. Everywhere you can see Santa in Cardiff

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  2. Christmas Events 2022

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  3. The top 5 things to do in Cardiff this Christmas

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  4. The best photos from Cardiff Bay's annual Santa Dash

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  5. Santa’s Wish at Cardiff Castle

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  6. Visit Santa in Cardiff 2023 • Visit Cardiff

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COMMENTS

  1. Visit Santa in Cardiff 2023 • Visit Cardiff

    SANTA'S TRADITIONAL GROTTO. Where: Queen Street When: Thu, 16 Nov 2023 - Tue, 02 Jan 2024 Get away from the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping and visit Santa Claus at his grotto on Queen Street.

  2. Christmas Events 2023

    Visit Santa at Cefn Mably Farm Park, Cardiff - Weekends from 25th November to 17th December & 22nd December 2023. Explore the winter garden, visit Santa and receive a gift. ... Tea with Santa at The Plough, Llandeilo - Dates not confirmed - The Plough is a country hotel near Llandeilo, about 1 hour 15 - 30 minutes from Cardiff. They ...

  3. Everywhere you can see Santa in Cardiff

    Santa's Grotto on Queen Street. No booking is required for Santa's Grotto on Queen Street. The wooden hut can be found outside the Queen's Arcade. The big man can be seen from 10 November 2022 until Christmas Eve, from 10.30am until 6pm daily. It is £8.50 per child with 2 adults and includes a present.

  4. Where to see Santa in Cardiff and South Wales

    2.17Elf at Motorpoint Arena Cardiff - 27th & 28th December. 3Barry & Vale of Glamorgan. 3.1Barry Island's Christmas Wonderland and Ice Skating at Barry Island, 31st October - 3rd January. 3.2Christmas 2022 at Fonmon Castle, Rhoose - 26th November to 23rd December. 3.3Afternoon Tea with Santa at Fonmon Castle, Rhoose - 26th November to ...

  5. Where to meet Santa in Wales this Christmas

    Santa's Grotto Cardiff. Visit Santa once again this Christmas in his cosy log cabin located on Queen Street, Cardiff City Centre. Open from Thursday November 10 daily at 10.30am all the way up ...

  6. Family Christmas Events and See Santa in Cardiff and South Wales 2021

    4 Cardiff. 4.1 Christmas at Bute Park, 25th November to 31st December 2021. 4.2 Believe at St David's Dewi Sant. 4.3 Cardiff Santa & Elf Dash 2021, @ Cardiff Bay, December 5th 2021. 4.4 Breakfast with Santa at The Sand Martin, Cardiff, December 11th & 12th 2021.

  7. 10 places where you can visit Santa in Wales

    Prices range from £5 to £15.75. Where: Bronwydd Arms Station, Bronwydd, Carmarthen, SA33 6HT. Get in touch: Call 01267 238213 or visit www.gwili-railway.co.uk. 9. Llechwen Hall, Mid Glamorgan ...

  8. 14 magical places to visit Santa in the run-up to Christmas

    Where to go: Begelly, Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire, SA68 0XA. Get in touch: Visit www.folly-farm.co.uk or call 01834 812 731. 6. Zoar's Ark. Take a stroll through the magical Ice Kingdom at Zoar's ...

  9. Santa's Grottos In Cardiff

    There's even mulled wine biscuits, and 10% off in the Castle Christmas Shop. Dates/Times: 16th November - 2nd January 2024 from 10:30. Prices: Various, view here. How to book: Click here to book tickets! Address: Cardiff Castle, Castle Street, Cardiff CF10 3RB. Find out more. Christmas is here and it's time to celebrate the festive period ...

  10. Cardiff Christmas Events at The Royal Mint Experience

    PLAN YOUR VISIT. The Royal Mint Christmas Experience runs every day from Saturday, 25th November 2023 to Sunday, 24th December 2023. Tours depart every 20 minutes, as follows: Monday-Thursday: first tour 12:00pm; last tour 8pm. Friday-Sunday: first tour 9:00am; last tour 8pm.

  11. SANTA'S GROTTO

    It is open 7 days a week from 10:30am and a ticket includes a gift from Santa. Get away from the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping and visit Santa Claus at his grotto on Queen Street. Housed in a traditional wooden chalet, dressed perfectly for the festive season, children can meet Santa and his elves.

  12. 8 Perfect Places to See Santa in South Wales

    Santa's Grotto will be at Cardiff Castle on the 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th and 19th - 23rd December. Cardiff Castle always has some amazing Christmas lights, and you could combine this with a visit to the Christmas Market just a few minutes walk away. Santa's Grotto is in the Black tower, a magical Victorian setting, guaranteed to amaze and ...

  13. Your Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Cardiff

    Everywhere you can see Santa in Cardiff. There are many opportunities to see Father Christmas in Cardiff in November and December 2023. Family-friendly events happen all over the city. ... Many people like to brave the weather, head to the beaches near Cardiff, and participate in a Boxing Day Swim. Cardiff City Football Club are playing ...

  14. Christmas: 10 places to see Santa in Wales

    How much is it? £7 to see Santa including a gift, £9 to have a photo or £12 to have two photos. ... Visit the Cardiff Castle website. 10. Santa's Grotto at People's Market, Wrexham.

  15. Principality Stadium

    The Santa Experience will return for Christmas 2024! Experience the magic of Christmas in one of the most unique settings in the UK. Explore the sacred halls of Principality Stadium before stepping into the magical winter wonderland, and beating heart of the home of Welsh Rugby. A place where heroes gather, a place of legends, a place of dreams.

  16. Santa experiences in Wales ranked from most expensive to cheapest

    The luxury hotel Celtic Manor, near Newport, is hosting a Santa's Tea Party on selected dates in November and December. Prices range from £28 to £40 for adults and £18 to £33 for children ...

  17. Santa Returns to Brand New 'Believe' Grotto at St David's Cardiff

    St David's Cardiff is set to unveil a brand-new enchanting Santa experience this Christmas. Opening on 1 st December, Believe at the city shopping destination, will have a magical makeover for 2023 with a new story, theming and family activities but, most importantly, children will still get to meet Santa!. On arrival, guests to Believe will discover Santa's enchanting post room where they ...

  18. 2019

    8th & 15th December 2019 - Sunday Lunch with Santa and Santa's Grotto at Future Inns, Cardiff Bay. Running from 12pm to 4pm, this is a 3 course festive lunch with tea or coffee, children's disco and a visit to Santa in his Grotto. It's £19.95 for adults and over 12s, £9.95 for under 12s but free for under 5s!