Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Santa's Elf Academy and Grotto at Metrocentre
Step into Santa's Elf Academy for a magical Christmas experience! Children can learn the super skills needed to become expert elves, from festive disco dancing to present-placing practice. This heartwarming Grotto experience culminates in a special visit with Santa himself, where each child receives a gift and their own elf hat. It's a delightful way for families to celebrate the holiday season.
What to Expect
Interactive Elf Academy lessons with Santa Claus.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Metrocentre offers nearly 10,000 free car parking spaces with no time restrictions on the main site. Specific car parks are designated for different zones of the centre. Multi-storey car parks have height restrictions of 1.98m (Yellow and Blue) and 2.1m (Red).
- Accessibility: The site of the experience is designed to be fully accessible. Lifts are available in the Blue and Green Malls. Contact the team for specific access needs.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Gateshead
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive, playful, magical
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Indoor
Special Events & Promotions
- Children receive a gift and elf hat.
- Dedicated SEND sessions available.
- Official photo opportunities for purchase.
Location
Event Details
Duration
15-20 minutes per session (allow 25-30 minutes including check-in and souvenirs)
Ages
Recommended for ages 18 months - 10 years, but suitable for all ages.
Neighborhood
Upper Green Mall
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Metrocentre
Food & Drink
No outside food and drink is permitted inside the experience.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive no more than 5 minutes before your booked session to avoid delays and ensure a smooth check-in.
- Consider booking 'SEND Sessions' for a quieter, calmer experience tailored for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
- While mobile phone photography is allowed, it is not permitted in the room with Santa; purchase official photos as a souvenir.
- Book tickets online in advance, as sessions can sell out. If you need to amend your booking, do so at least 48 hours prior and ensure you have a DigiTicket user account.
- Babies in arms do not require a ticket if attending with siblings, but if a baby is the only child in the group, a ticket is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the event this year and do we get to meet Santa?
Yes, families can visit Santa's Elf Academy where children will participate in festive lessons before meeting Santa. Each child receives an elf hat and a gift.
How long does the experience last?
Each session is approximately 15-20 minutes, with an allowance of 25-30 minutes for check-in and souvenir purchases.
How much are tickets?
Peak times cost £12 per child and £5 per adult, while off-peak times are £10 per child and £5 per adult.
Can I just turn up on the day and buy tickets?
Advance online booking is highly recommended. Last-minute tickets may be available via QR code in case of cancellations, on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are there dedicated inclusive sessions available?
Yes, dedicated SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) sessions are available, offering a quieter and calmer environment with reduced capacity.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.