Where to find Santa in Reading this Christmas

13th November 2024

Fancy catching up with Father Christmas himself before the big day? You’re in luck – he’ll be dropping by in Reading in the run up to Christmas so little ones can catch him in the flesh and make sure they're on the 'nice' list. Here are some of the places in and around town that you’ll be able to find him during the festive season.

Broad St., Reading town centre | 22 December
Santa will be visiting Reading high street on Sunday 22 December to say hello to shoppers and spread some festive cheer ahead of the big day. There’s no need to book, just make sure you’re on Broad Street between 11am – 1pm to say hello and let him know what’s on your Christmas wish list.

Broad Street Mall Grotto | 22 November – 23 December
From 22nd November to 24th December on selected dates*, Broad Street Mall is inviting families to step into Santa’s enchanting grotto in Centre Square! For just £6, each child will enjoy a magical visit with Santa and receive a special gift. No need to book—families are welcome to drop by anytime. Photos and festive merchandise will also be available for purchase separately.

Winter Wonderland Santa’s Grotto | Various dates November - December
Reading Winter Wonderland’s most popular experience is back for another year, with the chance to meet Santa and his Elf. Sure to be a magical experience, you can even take your own photos of the experience! Tickets need to be booked and cost £20 per child, plus booking fee – includes a gift from Santa.

The Cunning Man Breakfast with Santa | 8 &15 December
Head to The Cunning Man pub in Burghfield, Reading, on 8 and 15 December to enjoy an extra special breakfast with Santa himself! 

Dobbies Hare Hatch Santa’s Grotto | 28 November – 24 December
Visit Dobbies Garden Centre in Twyford to experience a magical Santa’s Grotto this festive season. There’ll be a Little Seedlings train-themed journey for children and families, complete with interactive elements and a meeting with Santa himself! Book in advance, tickets £12.99 per child.

Meet Santa at Beale Wildlife Park | Various dates between 1-24 December
Join Santa and his Elves in the Wild Café for story time, photos, presents and a Christmas feast from 10:00 – 11:30. Limited to 80 spaces a day! Enjoy heartwarming stories, create lasting memories with Santa, and receive a special activity book – tickets £12.50.

Santa Paws at Dobbies | 5 - 24 December 
Why should furry friends have to miss out on all the festive fun? Take your canine companions to Dobbies, Reading, and for £9.99 they can enjoy a visit to see Santa and get a special dog toy to take away. Plus, if you want the complete family experience you can include a children’s ticket and they can meet Santa along with your pup. 

Further afield and around Berkshire
Father Christmas can also be found in and around Berkshire during the festive season, including Ascot Racecourse on 21 December, Jakes Play Barn in Sandhurst, Wokingham Winter Carnival on 24 November and Henley Theatre for a family show and meet Santa experience on 30 November, as well as various garden centres and adventure parks across the county. Plus, there are plenty of other festive family activities in Reading to keep little ones entertained this Christmas.