visit santa taunton

Track Santa around Taunton Santa is supported by Taunton Round Table

Coming december 2023.

• Monday 4th December Monkton Heathfield
• Tuesday 5th December Sherford / Galmington
• Wednesday 6th December Halcon / Blackbrook
• Thursday 7th December Priorswood
• Monday 11th December Cotford / Norton
• Tuesday 12th December Wellsprings / Lyngford
• Wednesday 13th December Holway / Killams
• Thursday 14th December Bishops Hull / Comeytrowe

It's almost time for Santa Claus!

Santa and his merry band of elves will be spreading good cheer this year.

Santa has another busy schedule and will be visiting as much of Taunton as possible with full maps published here. Starting at 6pm each night Santa will make his way following the route.

If wish to donate we will be collecting this year, but you can also donate online by clicking the button below. We'll be raising money for for the Taunton Round Table Charitable Fund, which donates to many good local causes.

When and where you can catch Santa during his eight-date Taunton area tour

There's some exciting news hot off the ice from the North Pole - Santa is on his way to Taunton on a pre-Christmas Eve tour of our area.

Coverage Details

Bias distribution.

• 100 % of the sources are Center

To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage

Similar News Topics

• Where to drink
• Where to eat
• Where to shop
• Where to stay
• Somerset with kids
• What’s on School holidays? In the shire for a short while? At a loose end? If you’re in need of a little inspiration, check out what’s on in Somerset
• Accommodation Thatched cottages and yurts, to luxury country mansion hotels, discover special places to stay in Somerset
• Bath and North East Somerset
• North Somerset
• South Somerset
• West Somerset

 What’s on this Christmas in Somerset?

One minute you’re clinging on to the last throes of summer, the next, the hours of daylight are shrinking and Christmas is right around the corner! If you’re keen to maximise the festive feels this year, planning ahead early for family visits to Santa and Christmas Lights Trails is essential to avoid disappointment. Venues get booked up really quickly, so I’ve put together a hand-picked selection of enchanting Christmas lights trails, Christmas markets , Father Christmas meet-and-greets and the best of what’s on in Somerset this Christmas, so you can be prepared for when December comes around.

Use the table of contents to skip ahead, or browse through the post for inspiration. There’s so much on, you’re bound to find something you fancy near you. Be sure to check back regularly as I’ll continue to update the post with this to do in Somerset this Christmas, do let me know if you’d like your event added to the list.

This post contains affiliate links, should you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, although I receive a small commission which goes towards the upkeep of this blog.

Ice rinks and winter skating in Somerset

Clarks village ice rink.

2024 dates: 14 November-5 January

Get your skates on! Returning for a second year is Clarks Village outdoor, under-cover ice rink, featuring real ice. Look out for quiet sessions as well as parent and toddler sessions for wobbly starters. Penguin and seal skating aids will be available for little ones, as well as bob skates to help guests stay steady.

When you show your ice skating tickets (and/or receipt), you’ll get access to some exclusive brand discounts at Clarks outlet shopping.

Icescape Tropicana , Weston-super-Mare

2024 dates: TBC

The UK’S largest undercover winter ice rink returns to the Tropicana! The rink features real ice and each skating session is 45 minutes long and the ice rink is (manual) wheelchair accessible. Enjoy the thrill of the rides (including a Christmas rollercoaster and bungee trampolines), indulge in festive treats, and meet beloved mascot, Pippen the Penguin.

Somerset Christmas events 2024

Christmas lights trails in somerset.

Make the most of the nights drawing in with the most joyful of winter events – twinkly Christmas lights trails! A number of attractions in Somerset will be bringing a little bit of festive magic into our lives over the Yuletide season with their outdoor Christmas events – expect neon illuminations, dazzling foliage and glittering light displays! Here’s my round-up of Somerset’s best Christmas lights 2024 .

Family Holiday Activities: Christmas Crafts

• When? 18-20 December 2024, 10am/11.15 am/2pm

Follow the Christmas trail around the cathedral, then create seasonal crafts to take home. Morning and afternoon sessions, with the trail available throughout Advent. Admission: £1.10–£2.15.

Crib Services, Wells Cathedral

• When? 23 December 2024, 2 pm/3.15 pm

Perfect for children and families. Children are invited to dress up for this fun service — come dressed as a shepherd, an angel, a wise man, or even a super hero!

For a full list of Advent and Christmas events at Wells Cathedral, click here .

Taunton’s WinterFest

10am-8pm, 24 November 2024

Taunton’s WinterFest is a jam-packed day of festive fun with live music acts and performances, funfair rides, a Christmas market, charming Yuletide characters and the big Christmas light switch-on happening at 6pm. Santa will be enjoying the festivities too!

Reindeer World Tour at Montacute House

From 23 November 2024- 1 January 2025 (excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day).

Montacute House welcomes Father Christmas’s reindeer back to the garden and they need your help. Four sacks of presents have slipped off the sleigh, so Father Christmas has sent the reindeer out to find them. Can you discover where in the world the sacks have landed?

Afterwards, have a peek inside the house – the ground floor will look beautifully festive with its 15-foot Christmas tree decorating the Great Hall.

More info about festive Montacute

Christmas at Tyntesfield

2024 Family Reindeer making dates: 15, 21, 22 December 2024

Construct a festive wooden reindeer from parts provided by the Somerset Bodgers. Each day has three two-hour sessions – 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2pm. Book early to avoid disappointment.

Christmas is particularly festive at Tyntesfield. Soak up a Victorian Christmas atmosphere inside the mansion house as the Gibbs family and servants set about their festive preparations.

Look out for a roaming Father Christmas, Christmas horse and carriage rides (£4 per person per ride, book on the day at front of the house), local choirs crooning Christmas classics in the chapel, a festive audio trail, plus seasonal Sunday markets for a spot of festive shopping.

12 days of Twixmas trails, Dunster Castle

2024 dates: 26 December-5 January 2025

Dog walking, playing games and wearing ill fitting jumpers. Find out what the Dunster household were doing between Christmas and New Year and join in with some of the activities.

Mendip Activity Centre Twilight Tobogganing

2024 dates: 8 November-5 January

Mendip Activity Centre are running their popular Twilight Toboggan sessions this winter. Pop on your free santa hat and shimmy to festive music in between swooshing down slopes dusted with snow (from a machine) and glittering fairy lights.

Afterwards, head off along an illuminated path to a canopied woodland clearing for marshmallows, hot chocolate, s’mores and sparklers around the campfire. 

Coates English Willow Christmas Sculpture Trail

Coates English Willow has been weaving festive Christmas sculptures for you to find. Choose a wordsearch or picture quiz with a prize at the end.

Supper with Santa at Puxton Park 2024

2024 dates: 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 22-23 December 2024 , 6-8pm

Enjoy a magical feast and dance the night away at a disco with Santa with a gift for all children, plus access to the soft play barn.

£20 per child (includes buffet, ice-cream, soft-play, disco, and a present from Santa). £15 per adult (includes buffet)

Join us for a night of food, fun, and festive cheer, where magical memories will be made!

Christmas Concert under Concorde, Fleet Air Arm Museum

2024 dates: 7pm , 12-13 December

Visitors can join the HMS Heron Royal Navy Volunteer Band for Carols under Concorde 002 in Hall Four of the Yeovilton Fleet Air Arm museum. The concert features several classics and festive numbers for the occasion. Tickets include a mince pie and mulled wine on arrival, and Tea/Coffee during the interval.

Vee Dub Christmas Cruz, Weston-super-Mare

See over VW vans, all lit up for Christmas, raising money for The Grand Appeal – the official charity for Bristol Children’s Hospital. The procession starts at the Queensway Retail Park around 5.15pm, and heads out around Worle, along the Boulevard and up to the seafront, down past the pier and on to Marine Parade.

Somerset Rural Life Museum

Visit Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury this December to:

• Print your own Christmas cards (30 November 2024)
• Make a biodegradable Christmas wreath (7 December 2024)

Somerset Brick and Tile Museum, Bridgwater

• Make clay and glass icy ponds for penguins (30 November)
• Enjoy Christmas crafts including painting Christmas decorations and designing a plate for Santa. £4 per child. 2024 dates: 19,23, 24 December

Avon Valley Christmas experience

2024 Dates: 30 November, 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 December.

The Grinch would have a tough time stealing all the festive joy from Avon Valley. With ice skating, a festive fun fair, theatrical Santa Show and an array of yuletide activities, the adventure and wildlife park is hosting one of the biggest Christmas experiences in Somerset.

In addition to the indoor play barn, Dinosaur Valley, mini jeep dino safari, jump pillows, Chair-O-Planes and farm animals, delve into the holiday magic with reindeer food-making (alongside their resident reindeer), receive gingerbread-cooking tips from Mrs Claus, hop on the ‘elf express’ miniature train ride, post a letter to Santa, watch Rudolph preparing for Christmas Eve and if you dare, knock on the Grinch’s door and see if you can make his heart grow!

Visitors can purchase additional Christmas Nights Light Trail tickets which whisks  visitors around the park, past lit-up animatronic dinosaurs and includes a festive fun fair, and Christmas disco.

Tickets for the 300m Avon Valley ice skating rink can also be purchased separately. Warm up afterwards at the Apres-skate bar.

Book tickets here

Somerset Christmas lights switch-on 2024

Yeovil christmas lights switch-on, king george street.

4-7pm, 16 November 2024

Join together to switch on the town centre Christmas lights and illuminate the Christmas tree in the Quedam. With acts starting from 4.30pm there will be live music and dance from local and professional groups, family-friendly creative activities in Yeovil Art Space, seasonal delights at EPS Yeovil and a craft market.

Christmas lights switch-on and lantern parade, Frome

When? 22 November 2024

Ignite your Christmas spirit at Frome’s Christmas Light the Night lights switch-on. The lantern procession parades through the town centre, carols, festive food stalls and Father Christmas in his grotto. Be sure to check  Frome Lanterns website  for workshop details and more information closer to the night.

South Petherton Christmas lights switch-on

1.30-4.30pm, 24 November 2024

An afternoon of Christmas fun with music from Stoke-sub-Hamdon Brass Band in the village square, crafts and games in Blake Hall, decoration-making in St Peter and St Paul church, a craft fair at The Brewers Arms and businesses open late. Lights are switched on at 4.30pm .

Bruton’s Christmas Evening, High Street

5.30-8pm, 5 December 2024

Enjoy early Christmas magic in Bruton High Street – see the Christmas Tree switched on at Crown Green at 5.30pm, browse food, drink and craft stalls and watch Father Christmas and his Elves arrive, abseiling down from the top of the Chapel! Santa will then take up temporary residence in his Grotto.

Weston-super-Mare Christmas Lights switch-on

When? 23 November 2024

The eat:Weston Christmas food festival will take in the Italian Gardens on the same day as the festive lights switch-on, which has a brand new design for 2024.

Christmas Theatre in Somerset

Wells theatre company: a christmas carol.

• When? 9 & 16 December 2024, 1pm & 3pm

An illuminated costumed reading of Charles Dickens’s  A Christmas Carol  with live music, performed by Wells Theatre Company in the medieval Vicars’ Hall, Undercroft, and Chapter House. Admission: FREE in aid of Wells Cathedral; register in advance . Get tickets here.

Tacchi Morris Arts Centre, Taunton

• Cinderella pantomime : 6-22 December 2024

Taunton Brewhouse

• Pinocchio : 4-29 December 2024
• Royal Ballet and Opera Cinderella : 10 December 2024

The Front Room

• A Winter’s Tale : 1 December 2024
• Santa & Sven : 3 December 2024

The Playhouse, Weston-super-Mare

• Beauty & The Beast : 7-31 December 2024

Where to see Santa in Somerset

Visit father christmas, taunton brewhouse.

2024 dates: 4-23 December

Father Christmas is setting up a residency at Taunton Brewhouse for the second year in a row! Make your way through an enchanted forest inspired by the whimsical world of Pinocchio, all crafted from recycled materials.

Visitors can join a jolly forest elf to create a tree decoration and hear the latest news from the North Pole, followed by a meeting with Father Christmas as he prepares for the big day in his Somerset workshop. Before you leave, you’ll receive a make-at-home gift to cherish and enjoy with your family.

Christmas Wonderland, Little Town Adventures

This year, Little Town will be transformed into a Christmas Wonderland , featuring a beautifully decorated festive town and an enchanting grotto. Visitors can expect:

• A Personalised Letter from Santa: The magic starts before your visit with a custom letter from the North Pole.
• An immersive storytime adventure with Santa and his elves, filled with snow, songs and dancing.
• Magical Christmas town with fun festive role-play, games, and surprises.
• A visit to Santa’s magical grotto and a special gift to treasure.
• Snowy Finale

Christmas on the farm with Santa, Palette & Pasture

2024 dates: 7-8, 14-15, 20-22 December

Meet Santa in his grotto, pick a special gift from the Toy Shop, and snap a festive photo on a real Nordic sleigh at Palette & Pasture . Stroll around the farm, where animals await, including cows, ponies, and more.

Kids can make reindeer food and plant a magical candy cane. Enjoy spotting mischievous elves, dance with singing reindeer, and find the giant snowman, but beware the smelly Christmas pudding! Complete your activity sheet for a chance to win a gelato prize. All activities and an elf hat are included with your ticket.

• Adult Ticket £6
• Child Ticket (2 years and older) £19.50
• Child Ticket (under 2 years) £10.50
• Dog Ticket £6

Santa’s grotto at Museum of Somerset

On arrival, Santa’s elves will guide you to the magical grotto to meet with Santa, and each kiddo will receive a special gift. After seeing Santa, pop over to the museum for more Christmassy fun following the Reindeer Trail (£1). The café will be open serving hot drinks and seasonal treats.

Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury

Friendly elves will guide you to Santa, who will be waiting in the Farmhouse Kitchen. After a chat, and a gift from the man in red, you can explore the museum and have a go at the special Christmas Trail. The Grain Store Café will be open serving festive treats. At the end of your visit, make a Christmas decoration to take home with you!

Weston Grotto, We are Super Studios, The Sovereign, Weston-super-Mare

✨ Explore the Elf Workshop ✨ Unleash your creativity with cool Christmas crafts ✨ Dive into the holiday spirit with Christmas games ✨ Enjoy playtime with toys, building blocks, teddies, snow, and snowball fights ✨ Don’t miss a visit to Santa in his charming grotto for Christmas stories and a special gift.

Tickets £12.

Thursdays are extra special with Supper with Santa: 🎉 Party it up with the elves, Santa, and Action Pussycat at an interactive disco. 🎮 Engage in fun Christmas games and frolic in the snow. 🍔 Feast on a meal from Burger King.

Tickets: £15

Father and Mother Christmas at Bishops Palace, Wells

Make your way through the decorated rooms of The Bishop’s Palace to find Mother and Father Christmas’ grotto. Each family will have exclusive time with Father and Mother Christmas and receive a special Christmas gift.

Father Christmas at Wookey Hole Winter Wonderland

2024 dates: 23 November-24 December

Wookey Hole decorate their famous caves with thousands of fairy lights for their festive season, turning it into a magical twinkling grotto. Guided tours take you through the spectacular caverns and then you’re free to explore above ground, where you’ll find a giant gorilla, fairy garden, animatronic dinosaurs, festive 4D cinema, circus shows, soft play, Victorian-style arcade and as part of the Christmas festivities, a chance to meet Santa and his elves.

When you book to see Santa you’ll be given the option to add on a return visit (with 50% off) to Wookey Hole to enjoy their Twixmas experience featuring Paddington  TM ! The beloved bear will be making guest appearances after the twice daily Panto shows between the 27 December 2024 and 5 January 2025.

Book to see Santa at Wookey Hole Winter Wonderland

Christmas fun day at The Helicopter Museum

2024 dates: 8 December

Got a young vehicle enthusiast in the family? Delight their little minds with a visit to Santa’s helicopter grotto at Weston-super-Mare’s Helicopter Museum on Sunday, December 8. Children will have the unique opportunity to meet Santa and his elf pilots, receive a special gift, and climb aboard several aircraft from the museum’s collection.

The festive activities extend beyond the grotto with charity stalls, face painting, and a seasonal fayre. It’s a perfect day out for any aviation lover, mixing festive fun with hands-on exploration of some incredible flying machines. 

Father Christmas at Cheddar Gorge and Caves

Selected dates from 16 November 2024

Did you know that it’s not just cheese stored in Gough’s Cave, but lots of toys too! Father Christmas will be stopping off to ensure his operations are up to scratch and has decided that while the final tweaks are made, he will invite you behind the scenes to marvel at the magic that is Christmas at Cheddar. You’ll see elves checking destinations, busy sorting letters and making toys.

Visit Father Christmas at Sheppy’s House of Cider

2024 dates: 30 November – 1 December , (10am-4pm – weekends, 3-6pm weekdays)

Father Christmas is getting into the Somerset spirit and greeting families in his Sheppy’s Oak Vat grotto! Children will receive a gift and activity pack and afterwards, can visit the donkeys in the Old Barn, take a winter stroll around the orchards or pop by the Christmas Craft Fair (2-3 December).

More info on Sheppy’s Santa Grotto

Cadbury Garden Centre Santa Grotto

Santa’s coming to Cadbury Garden Centre, The Elves are eagerly awaiting your arrival and busy making a gift for you to collect on the way out. Meet Santa in his grotto, go for Christmas afternoon tea or try the breakfast with Santa experience!

Book tickets to the Santa experience here

Weston Pier Santa Grotto 2024, Weston-super-Mare

2024 dates: 23-24, 30 November, 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-24 December

Meet the jolly man himself a quarter of a mile out to sea (depending on tide times of course) and receive a special Christmas gift.

For a Santa visit with a different festive flavour for your little mischief maker, head over on the weekend of 14-15 December 2024 when Mr Grinch is doing a takeover! This green grump will be posing as the magical man himself in an attempt to steal your Christmas spirit!

Book Weston Pier Santa here

Elf School and Christmas grotto at Space Adventurers, Taunton

Selected dates throughout December 2024 at 9.15am, 11.45am and 2.15pm.

Enjoy a magical 2.25 hour experience hosted by one of Santa’s elves, teaching kids the secrets of being a good elf through craft and play! Create your own reindeer food, make your own themed hot chocolate and a Christmas decoration to take home. Santa Claus will give each child a personalised meet and greet (thanks to a special form), there’ll be an elf hat workshop, elf hunt round the soft play, Christmas tree origami plus access to a festive-decorated soft play.

Sister soft play,  Ocean Adventurers, will also be hosting a similar Magical Mystical Christmas experience in Cheddar.

Book here to see Santa at Ocean Adventurers this year

For both venues, S.E.N.D. tickets are available with reduced capacity, no music and lowered lighting.

Santa’s grotto and Grinchmas Party, Chicagos, Yeovil

Pop along to meet Santa . Tickets (£10 per child) include unlimited soft drinks, and there will be breakfast baps available for adults. Or meet Santa and his elf in a Christmas grotto, from 3pm-6pm. Cost will be £10 per child and include a gift.

For fans of The Grinch, there’ll also be a festive Grinchmas party . Tickets include a meal, drink and a gift.

Tea with Santa, Yeovil Railway Centre

2024 dates : 7 December, 10am-12pm, 3-5pm

Kids can meet Santa (and receive a present), join in with games, music and tuck into a kids’ buffet. Adults £5 each, children £10 each. NB There is no train ride with this event.

Santa Special Sunday, Yeovil Railway Centre

2024 dates: 1, 8, 14, 15, 22, 23 December

Travel in a decorated heritage carriage on a steam locomotive (about 1/3rd mile long), before making your way to the ex GWR Transfer Shed, to meet Santa and receive a gift.

To add to the festive spirit there’s also award-winning Christmas displays to marvel at and the chance to dance and play in falling snow. Adult tickets include a mince pie and hot drink.

Christmas Santa trains in Somerset

Santa express west somerset railway.

2024 dates: 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-24 December

Step aboard the Santa Express and take an unforgettable journey through West Somerset’s winter woodlands on a round trip from Bishop’s Lydeard to Williton. Inside festively-decorated heritage carriages, Santa’s presents (made from 100% recycled materials) and refreshments will be waiting at your table and he’ll be along for the ride to make sure you’ve found them! 

West Somerset Railway info and Santa Express ticket availability

Panto Train, West Somerset Railway

2024 dates: 14-15, 21-23, 27-29, 31 December, 1 January 2025).

This year you can also combine theatrical seasonal frivolity with a ride on the old-fashioned railway, thanks to the introduction of the Panto Train .

If you love a ‘he’s behind you’ silliness, watch beloved characters bring a pantomime to life onboard the train, which promises plenty of audience participation, including a sing-a-long. For added Christmas cosiness, be sure to purchase a hot chocolate and cookie (£5) to sip while you watch the fun unfold.

Magical Christmas Experience, Somerset Reindeer Ranch, Yeovil

2024 dates: 30 November, 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-23 December

Head off on a magical, elf-led guided tour to see real-life reindeer and have story time with Santa. This one-hour experience involves a (Narnia-esque) journey through a magical wardrobe, luxury hot chocolate, reindeer feeding (£2 per portion) and a gift for youngsters under 16. 

Click here to buy tickets and check availability

Christmas markets and shopping in Somerset

Old rowlands all year christmas shop, cheddar gorge.

“Oh I wish it could be Christmas every daaayy”… Well, it is at Old Rowlands! Immerse yourself in the festive surroundings and pick up Christmas decorations of all shapes and sizes.

Christmas Markets

During the festive period, there are lots of Christmas markets in Somerset to potter around, from famous, long-standing annual events, o smaller village hall affairs. All promise unique, local, handmade crafts, festive treats and oodles of Yuletide cheer. I’ve put together a list of Christmas markets in Somerset taking place this festive season in order of when they’ll be happening.

Farm shops in Somerset

There’s something so lovely about pondering with an expert over a cheese or hunk of meat for a special occasion. At Christmas, Somerset’s glorious farm shops are brimming with festive goodies, tasty gifts, stocking fillers and scrummy delights for your Christmas feasting. Here are 18 of the best farm shops you’ll find in the county.

Carol concerts in Somerset

Carols by candlelight concerts, wells cathedral.

2024 dates: 19, 20, 21 December

Share in this treasured tradition for an unforgettable celebration of Christmas within the awe-inspiring walls of Wells Cathedral.

Carols around the bandstand, Vivary Park Taunton

2024 dates: 9 December

Taunton Deane Male Voice Choir and The New Horizon Singers will be belting out some festive numbers accompanied by Taunton Concert Band. Bring a torch or even better, a lantern!

You Might Also Like

5 Best castles in Somerset to visit

31 Things to do on the Somerset coast with kids

7 Best pubs with play areas in Somerset 

Christmas Markets in Somerset 2024

October half term activities in Somerset 2024

Where to find the best pumpkin picking in Somerset

REVIEW: Holm Somerset, South Petherton

Horrell and Horrell: Somerset farm-to-fork restaurant REVIEW

What do you think cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

No Comments Yet.

Want a photo with Santa? Here's where to find him on the SouthCoast

Santa Claus is in town — many towns, in fact — to take that beloved holiday photo.

After a difficult year, Santa is ready to bring some cheer to local children and adults — and sometimes, even their pets. But he may be spread a little thin this year.

Dan Greenleaf, of Manchester, New Hampshire, plays Santa Claus and also runs a business,  ImSanta.org , that places Santas at events throughout New England. "There are days I can't fill," he said. "There's just nobody available."

Santa isn't stuck in a shipping container off the Port of Los Angeles like other casualties of the supply chain shortage, but the pandemic is apparently playing a role on both the supply and demand sides of the holiday equation. The regular folks who dress up as Santa tend to be older, and that group has been hit hard by COVID-19. Meanwhile, the demand for the jolly elf has increased dramatically, Greenleaf says. Eager for life to return to normal, a COVID-weary population is organizing big events with Santa as the centerpiece, he told the Providence Journal.

Still, we found some spots where you can get that photo with Jolly Old Saint Nicholas. 

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Photo packages with Santa

Dartmouth Mall, 200 N Dartmouth Mall, Dartmouth

Capture your holiday memories at the center court in the Dartmouth Mall. Reservations are encouraged but not required to have a photo taken with Santa. You can make a reservation at  vipholidayphotos.com .

Mondays only you can get Pet Photos will Santa, make sure to use the Panera Bread entrance. All pets must be on a leash, in a carrier, or held by the owner at all times. Owners must sign a release prior to visiting Santa.  

Santa will be taking photos from now until Dec. 24.

Cookies, Paws, and Santa Claus

Buttonwood Park Zoo, 425 Hawthorn St., New Bedford

Jingle all the way over to the Buttonwood Park Zoo for some holiday fun at Cookies, Paws & Santa Claus. Photos with Santa will take place outside along with a host of activities inside. Don’t forget to bring your letter to Santa with your holiday wishes as he will be flying in for a visit to see his favorite friends.

Sessions are 10 to 11:30 a.m. or 12:30 to 2 p.m. Dec. 11, 12, 18, 19.  Pre-registration is required and tickets are limited for each session. Check out  www.bpzoo.org  for more details and the ticket purchase. 

Santa Paws is Coming to Town

Emma Marie's Grooming & Dog Daycare, 19 County Road, Mattapoisett

Santa Paws will be taking photos from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 11 at Emma Marie's Grooming. The cost is $15 with pre-payment and appointment required. Check out  www.facebook.com/emmamariesmattapoisett  for more information. 

Swansea Mall (yes THE Swansea Mall!)

Swansea Mall is once again hosting a visit with Santa! Just like the old days, in the original location, and with the original décor. The cost is $10/family for a picture with Santa and hot chocolate!

Entrance will be on the Walmart side of the mall.

All proceeds go to support Bags of Hope , a non profit organization providing foster children with monogrammed duffle bags filled with Christmas gifts.

Santa Claus at Taber Lodge

George H. Taber Lodge, 20 Center St., Fairhaven

Bring your own camera or cell phone to take photos with Santa Claus during this festive afternoon. Santa will pose with you from 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 12 at the George H. Taber Masonic Lodge. Refreshments will be available.

Winter Wonderland 

Light Display, 35 Gellette Road, Fairhaven

A beautiful light display, Santa, and the Grinch — what more could you need? Stop by to see the annual light display and take a photo with Santa and/or the Grinch after 5:30 p.m. Dec. 17 and 18. There will be complimentary refreshments, just make sure to bring non-perishable non-expired food items for the local pantry. 

Taunton Green

You can take pictures with Santa on Taunton Green from 5 to 8 p.m. on the following days: Dec. 10, 11, 12,17, 18 and 19.

For more information, contact Parks & Rec at 508-821-1415.

Winter Solstice

Pardon Gray Preserve, 4960 Main Road Tiverton, R.I.

Watch the tree light up with twinkling lights as you take your photo with Santa. The big guy himself will be ready for photos from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Dec. 21 at Pardon Gray preserve. Click this link  givebutter.com/WinterSolstice21  to reserve your spot.

Come visit Santa on the Taunton Green this weekend

TAUNTON — There’s still time for kids to visit Santa and write letters to him before Christmas.

Santa will be at his village on the Taunton Green for pictures with visitors from 5 to 8 p.m. this coming weekend: Friday, Dec. 18; Saturday, Dec. 19; and Sunday, Dec. 20.

And there’s a mailbox next to Santa’s Village where children can leave letters for Santa. All letters will be answered by Santa.

For more information, check out facebook.com/lightingofthegreen .

Where to find Santa's grottos in Somerset this Christmas

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

• 06:00, 24 NOV 2018

Never miss Somerset's latest and breaking news again by signing up to our Daily Newsletter

We have more newsletters

Christmas is coming and if there's one thing families should have on their lists, it's a visit to a grotto.

Visiting Father Christmas is a highlight for most children. How else will they let him know what they want for Christmas this year?

There's nothing like a visit to a grotto, Father Christmas and his elves to get you into the festive spirit.

Below is a list of grottos which will be held across Somerset and Bath. More will be added to this list as Christmas approaches.

Are you running a grotto or know of one which is not on the list? Email [email protected] with details so they can be featured.

Santa's Grottos

Southgate Street, BA1 1AQ

December 5 to 24

Milsom Place

Milsom Place, Bath, BA1 1BZ

December 10 to 24

Details here

Bath and West Showground

Santa South Christmas Village, Bath and West Showground, BA4 6QN

December 1 to 16

Admission to the grounds is £1, the enchanted adventure is £15 for an adult, £20 for a child and £5 for child aged 0 to 3 (including gift)

The Toll House, The Beach, Clevedon, BS21 7QU

December 15 to 24

Tickets are £10 (One adults, one child; including Pier entry)

Glastonbury

United Reformed Chruch, High Street, Glastonbury, BA6 9DZ

During Glastonbury Frist Fayre on November 24 at noon, 1.30pm and 3pm

West Somerset Railway, Warren Road, Minehead, TA24 5BG

December 22 to 24 at 10am, noon and 2pm

Return tickets are £16.50 for adults and £13.50 for children (£5 for under 1 year)

Tickets here

Museum of Somerset, Caste Lodge, Castle Green, Taunton, TA1 4AA

December 1, 8, 15 and 22

Booking required, cost is £4 per child including gift

Stourhead House (National Trust), High Street, Stourton, Warminster, BA12 6QE

December 1 - book soon as all other dates are sold out

The Swan Hotel, Sadler Street, Wells, BA5 3RX

December 9, 11am to 3pm

Tickets are £5 including a present

Bath Christmas Market 2018

Wookey Hole Caves

The Mill, High Street, Wookey Hole, Wells, BA5 1BB

Weekends between November 17 and December 21, daily between December 21 and 24

Ticket prices for Winter Wonderland are £15 for an adult, senior and children 3-14 years, infants (0-2) are £2.50 and concessions (carer/disabled) £7.50

Weston-super-Mare

Weston Pier

December 1 to 24 from 11am

Tickets are £6

• Puxton Park

Cowslip Lane, Hewish, Weston-super-Mare, BS24 6AH

December 1 to 22, from 9am

Yeovil Railway Centre

Yeovil Junction Station, Yeovil Junction, BA22 9UU

December 2, 9, 16, 22, 23

Quedam Shopping Centre

Yeovil Quedam, Ivel Square, BA20 1EY

Every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from November 29 to December 20

Tickets are £5 including a gift (£4 for photos)

Want more news?

To keep up to date with our latest news, follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Find our Bath Facebook page here or Somerset's can be found here

Alternatively, follow us on Twitter - @BathLive and @SomersetLive

• Most Recent

• BOOK FARM ADMISSION TICKETS HERE
• Christmas 2024: Info and Book Here
• 01372 363764

Christmas at Bocketts Farm

Enjoy a magical and festive family day out at bocketts farm including a visit to meet father christmas in his traditional workshop., 21st november – 24th december 2024, visiting father christmas.

The experience begins as children hop on board the Santa Express trailer. Our elves then take you on a short journey to their traditional workshop. Next, you’ll be invited to meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto. Each child will receive a special golden coin to spend in his amazing toy shop, selecting the gift of their choice to take home! Before you leave you may like to purchase a professional photo or souvenir.

Your Booking

Tickets MUST be booked online in advance . When you book, you are selecting a time to visit Father Christmas. Each visit departs promptly at your booked time and lasts for up to 40 minutes. The ticket price for children includes farm entry and a visit to Father Christmas plus a gift. Adults are only required to book farm entry tickets and accompany their children to meet Father Christmas without an additional cost. There is a limit of 2 adults per family group to accompany children through the experience.

You must arrive at the farm at least 30 minutes before your booked Father Christmas time. If you are late or miss your session time to see Father Christmas then we regret this cannot be rearranged. There is no limit to the amount of time you can spend on the Farm Park – you have all day to explore!

The magic doesn't end there! Also included in your ticket price:

• Make your very own Reindeer Food to take home
• Complete the Christmas Trail
• Get creative in Christmas Craft Corner
• Step into the Snow Globe for a family photo
• Meet hundreds of friendly farm animals including baby lambs from December
• Explore all our play areas and farm activities
• Discover our heated indoor soft play
• Enjoy a winter warmer and toast marshmallows in the Yuletide Yard (additional cost)

NEW for 2024: Make a Bear with our Premium Christmas Ticket

For an extra touch of festive magic, children can make their own cuddly bear in our Bear Workshop! Each bear has it’s own certificate to take home and outfits can be purchased on the day. Ensure you select the Premium Christmas Ticket to include this activity during your farm visit. Please see daily Bear Workshop opening times on arrival. (Please note, Premium Tickets not available After School).

NEW for 2024: SEN Father Christmas visits

We will be offering specifically tailored Father Christmas sessions for families of children with special educational needs. These sessions will be available on Wednesday 4th December and Tuesday 10th December from 2.15pm – 5.15pm.

Christmas Event Terms & Conditions

• To redeem your tickets on the day, please provide your booking reference number upon arrival. You are not required to print this.
• Tickets purchased are only valid for the date and timed session for which they were booked. If you miss your timed session for Father Christmas, we are unable to rearrange this.
• The Father Christmas visit at Bocketts Farm is a shared group experience. The timed session with Father Christmas is not exclusive to your family group, however children will meet with Father Christmas individually or with their family group.
• The Santa Express trailer is for children only. We cannot permit adults to ride on the trailer. The trailer travels at walking pace so adults may walk directly alongside with pushchairs or with children not comfortable to ride alone on the trailer. The ride lasts no longer than 5 minutes.
• Please arrive at the farm at least 30 minutes before your booked Father Christmas time to allow for parking and ticket collection etc. Your booked Father Christmas visit time is not changeable and once you have checked in at the entrance you must ensure you arrive at the departure point 10 minutes before your session time. The Santa Express trailer will depart promptly and will not wait for late arrivals.
• After School Tickets purchased are only valid for farm entry after 2:45pm, with the first Father Christmas time available from 3:15pm. These are only available on selected dates Mon - Fri from 29th November – 19th December. Your ticket includes both Farm Entry and a visit to Father Christmas so please ensure you arrive with enough time to enjoy the Farm Park before it closes at 5:30pm. Refunds cannot be issued in the event of not allowing time to visit the Farm Park.
• The Premium Christmas Ticket for children includes all day farm admission, a visit to Father Christmas including a gift and the ‘Make a Bear’ activity. Please see daily Bear Workshop opening times on arrival. Bear outfits will be available to purchase on the day for an additional cost. The Make a Bear activity is not available for After School Tickets due to time restraints.
• The visit to Father Christmas is suitable for children of all ages. Babies wishing to meet Father Christmas, receive a gift and have a professional photo taken MUST have a booked ticket. Babies in arms, not wishing to meet Father Christmas or receive a gift can accompany parents into the grotto without a ticket.
• The number of accompanying adults per family group will be strictly limited to 2. We regret this means additional adults or family members in your group will not be able to join the Father Christmas experience, however we hope you can enjoy a festive farm visit together.
• A photo of each family group with Father Christmas will be captured by the elves. This photo and additional souvenirs are available to purchase in the Toy Shop using card payment. You may also take your own photos.
• Tickets purchased are non-refundable.
• We reserve the right to cancel the Father Christmas experience without any notice. In the event of this, tickets would be refunded in full.

Unwrapping the Magic of the Holidays in Staunton

While the Staunton Christmas Parade may have concluded, there’s still an abundance of holiday festivities awaiting you in the Queen City! Here’s a roundup of things to keep you busy throughout the holiday season!

Downtown Festivities: 

Staunton’s enchanting downtown is one of America’s most celebrated Main Streets and offers a truly authentic holiday experience. Find something for everyone on your shopping list in one of our boutiques and artisan shops offering unique gifts for all ages and interests. 

Saturdays in December

Hit downtown Staunton in style during Saturdays in December – (December 2nd, 9th, 16th). The town lights up to celebrate the season with shopping specials, decorations, holiday performers, activities, and more. Visit Santa and other holiday character on the following dates:

• December 2nd – Santa’s Sleigh & Reindeer will be in Candy Cane Courtyard at City National Bank (38 N Central Ave, Staunton).
• December 9th – Santa’s Cottage, located in Gingerbread Gardens at Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum (18 N. Coalter Street) Fun activities, music, and photo opportunities.
• December 16th – Santa’s Downtown Workshop will be set up inside THE SPACE (35A South New Street). Stop by and grab a selfie with the Clauses and friends!
• The Snow Court will entertain on December 2nd and 9th.
• Bundle up and get the camera ready as you enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown Staunton. Storybook Carriage Rides are available on December 2nd and 9th.
• Santa’s Mailbox will be accepting Santa letters on all three days.
• The Grinch will be at the Wharf all three days. Father and Meri Christmas will be found in various downtown locations.

Art for Gifts

You’re sure to find a unique and thoughtful gift at the R.R. Smith Center for History and Art’s annual Art for Gifts holiday market. This gallery showcases works by 70 Virginia artists and artisans and features quality, handmade fine art and crafts. Open through December 31st.

Sustainable Staunton Holiday Night

Enjoy surprise ugly sweaters, crafts, discounts, and more at the Staunton Patio during Sustainable Staunton Holiday Night on December 1st.

Winter Market

Thanksgiving marks the end of Staunton’s traditional Farmers’ Market but the Wharf lot will come alive on Saturdays in December with its Winter Market ! The market’s vendors offer homegrown and hand-crafted products ranging from food to clothing and accessories, home decor, and gifts. There will also be weekly live music. The Winter Market will be held on December 2nd, 9th, and 16th from 9 am – 2 pm.

Santa’s Scenic Railway

Make some special memories on one of Virginia Scenic Railway’s Santa’s Scenic Railway rides. Between now and Christmas, your family can board the train at the historic Staunton station and take a 50-minute ride with a very important guest. The train will shimmer with sparkly decorations, and guests get to enjoy a holiday snack. The best part will be meeting Santa himself and snapping lots of photos!

Holiday House Tour

The 48th annual Historic Staunton Foundation’s Holiday House Tour will open the doors of six historic homes and a storefront in the Newtown Historic District. Learn the history of these Staunton landmarks and enjoy gracious holiday decorations. The tour is on December 9th and 10th, and tickets will be good for both days.

Old World Holiday Tours at Frontier Culture Museum

Embark on an after-hours lantern tour of the Frontier Culture Museum as you travel to England, Ireland, Germany, the Shenandoah Valley, and Staunton visiting original farmsteads with costumed interpreters performing festive music and holiday skits. Tours run December December 15th – 17th, and December 20th – 23rd. Mobility carts are available for those who are unable to walk the tour, advance notice is required.  

Celebration of Holiday Lights

For the 18th year, Gypsy Hill Park has transformed into a winter wonderland, aglow with holiday lights and festive decorations. Entrance into the park and the Celebration of Holiday Lights is free and lights will be lit every evening from 5 – 11 pm. 

Christmas Wonderland at Creative Works Farm

Looking for another chance to visit Santa and check out the seasonal lights? Christmas Wonderland at Creative Works Farm includes a walk-through light and music show, musical performances, crafts, refreshments, wagon rides, visits with farm animals, and chances to meet and greet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Grinch. All proceeds benefit Camp LIGHT, a summer camp for children with special needs. December 1st, 2nd, 8th, and 9th.

Christmas Ghost Tour

If you’ve enjoyed A Christmas Carol and want to learn about your hometown ghosts, take a 90-minute Dark Tales and Haunts of the Queen City Christmas Edition . You’ll learn about Staunton’s history, hauntings, and holiday legends. Grown-ups only.

Holiday Performances

American shakespeare center’s a christmas carol  .

The holiday classic, A Christmas Carol , has returned to the Blackfriars Playhouse. Enjoy ghostly season’s greetings filled with memorable music and cheer with this contemporary twist on the age-old tale of Marley, the three Christmas ghosts, the Cratchits, and Tiny Tim. Through December 30th. 

Another way to enjoy theater at the Blackfriars this season is to attend the Share the Light celebration on December 2nd. This free event will feature performances by local student groups.

It’s a Wonderful Life: Live Radio Play

Silver Line Theatre Exchange proudly presents It’s a Wonderful Life by Joe Landry, produced in special arrangement with Playscripts. Part of their Professional Performance Series, this production features talent from local and regional professional actors. This beloved American holiday classic comes to life as a live, captivating 1940s radio broadcast from December 14th – 30th.

WinterStage at The Blackburn

Folk musicians Robin and Linda Williams will come “ Home for the Holidays ” to the stage at The Blackburn Inn. Their concert will feature beautiful music and words of wisdom for the holidays. December 15th.

Heifetz Institute’s Holiday Homecoming

The Heifetz Holiday Homecoming concert will feature Paul Neubauer on the viola in the Franci Auditorium on December 15th.

ShenanArts Holidays on the Great White Way

Celebrate the holidays and support community theater at ShenanArts with an evening of Broadway-inspired performances of seasonal songs. December 15th and 16th.

Blow Your Own Ornament at Sunspots

Create a family tradition for years to come by blowing a glass ornament at Sunspots Studios ! Trained glassblowers will instruct and assist you in making a one-of-a-kind ornament for your tree. Ages 7+. Visitors can also watch daily live glass-blowing demonstrations.

Ornament Making

Make plans to follow along as The Faded Poppy teaches you how to make a rustic, scented Christmas ornament at Stable Craft on December 3rd. Might as well enjoy a pint or flight as you work!

Also on December 3rd, Burrow & Vine will host an ornament painting workshop. See their other workshops here .

Wreath Workshops

Decorations make the holidays brighter, and there are several local wreath and centerpiece workshop opportunities. Make a gingerbread snowflake wreath at Kate’s Merchantile . Art Hive , Harmony Harvest Farm , and Valley Pike Farm Market still have slots open for wreathmaking workshops, but they’re filling up quickly.

Enjoy the holidays here in Staunton!

Newsletter Sign-up

Stay up to date on the latest and greatest happening in Staunton.

Find Magic at Staunton’s Queen City Mischief & Magic Festival

Staunton’s Must-See Fall Festivals

College Send-Off Family Weekend 

See All Blogs

Santa's Grottos in Taunton for 2024

View all Santa's Grottos in Taunton for 2024. As Christmas approaches get into the festive spirit with a visit to a local Santa's Grotto! Check out our growing list of grottos in Taunton below.

Advertise your Grotto for free

Advertise your Grotto or Santa Experience for free!

Get your event seen by thousands of local people.

Click here to add your event

• Accessibility options

• Attractions
• Parks and Gardens

Community Events

Exhibitions and Talks

Theatre Listings

Explore Taunton

So many things, so little time!

The are range of activities for all the family to enjoy

Whether your interest lies in the great outdoors, exploring or simply relaxing, Taunton offers them all.

Taunton is just waiting to be explored and enjoyed

From historic houses to a heritage railway, to a centre where one of the oldest rural crafts still flourishes – there’s plenty to go and see.

Wherever you go in Taunton you’re never far from a park

Somerset West and Taunton is responsible for maintaining more than 109 hectares of public open spaces, including three major Green Flag Award parks and 102 play areas.

Discover Taunton's wide range of retail options

In addition to all the usual High Street names Taunton is home to a large number of independent shops, many of them long-established. You’ll find some grouped along the historic Bath Place and in the St James Street Riverside area.

the wider area

Beautiful countryside, unspoilt villages and characterful market towns feature as you set out to explore this fascinating area.

What's On

You're spoilt for choice with a wealth of shows, festivals, markets, carnivals, fairs and fetes - there's an event for all ages and tastes!

Food and Drink

You’ll find wonderful local produce reflected in our pubs, cafes, restaurants and hotels...

Advertise Your Event With Us

Did you know that you can advertise your event with us for FREE on our Visit Taunton website? Simply complete an online form...

Visitor Guide to Taunton

A guide of things to do, places to go and much more in Taunton...

Dog Friendly Places to Visit in Taunton

Find dog friendly attractions, eateries, and near-by walks listed here.

• Barrington Court
• Cheddar Gorge & Caves
• Coleridge Cottage
• Countryside, Nature & Wildlife
• Dunster Castle
• Festivals and Events
• Glastonbury
• Holnicote Estate
• Market Towns in South Somerset
• Montacute House
• National Trust Properties and Landscapes
• Places To Stay
• Restaurants
• Somerset Food & Drink Producers
• Somerset Food, Drink & More!
• Somerset Houses & Gardens
• South Somerset
• Two Day Train Itineraries
• Visit Somerset Image Library
• Weston-super-Mare
• Where to stay in South Somerset