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Borde Hill Santa Grotto Experience
Haywards Heath, West Sussex
Interactive Elf Training Camp before meeting Santa
About
Step into a winter wonderland at Borde Hill Garden for a magical Christmas experience! Children aged 3-8 can embark on an enchanting story trail, 'The Pony Who Dreamed of Being a Reindeer,' with a special prize upon completion. For an unforgettable encounter, book a visit to Santa's Grotto, where little ones will first train as elves with festive games and cookie decorating before meeting Santa himself and receiving a gift. The Garden offers a beautiful backdrop for a festive walk, with opportunities to warm up with seasonal drinks and browse the Garden Shop for unique gifts.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Magical, festive, enchanting
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
Mid-Range
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Medium
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.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Daily Story Trail: £4.50 per trail (free to Members). Santa’s Grotto: £19 per child (includes 1 supervising adult). Additional adult: £6.25.
Duration
30 minute sessions for Grotto visits
Ages
Children aged 3–8 years old for the trail. General event is family-friendly.
Schedule
Specific dates for Santa's Grotto: Sat 29th & Sun 30th Nov, Sat 6th & Sun 7th Dec, Sat 13th & Sun 14th Dec, Sat 20th & Sun 21st Dec. Preschool sessions (9:30am to 11:45am) on Fri 5th & 12th Dec. 30 minute sessions at: 9:30am, 10:15am, 11:00am, 11:45am, 1:30pm, 2:15pm & 3:00pm.
Organizer
Borde Hill
Practical Information
Accessibility
We welcome visitors of all abilities at Borde Hill and most paths in the formal Garden are step-free and accessible to those with restricted mobility. Gentle slopes, hard surfaces and gravel paths allow good wheelchair access and mobility maps are available from our Visitor Reception.
Pet Policy
Service animals welcome
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate or mulled wine available, Garden Shop with gifts
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book your Santa's Grotto tickets well in advance, as sessions are limited and sell out quickly. Arrive at least 5 minutes before your scheduled time to ensure a smooth check-in.
- Consider visiting on a weekday if possible for a potentially less crowded experience, especially for the story trail, though Santa's Grotto sessions are primarily on weekends.
- Dress warmly in layers, as you'll be exploring both indoor and outdoor areas. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the story trail.
- Take advantage of the half-price garden admission during the event to explore the beautiful grounds before or after your Santa visit.
- If traveling by train, pre-book a taxi from Haywards Heath station to Borde Hill Garden to ensure a quick transfer to your festive adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with the Santa's Grotto ticket?
Each child's ticket includes entry to the Elf Training Camp, a gingerbread cookie to decorate, a special gift from Santa, an official elf certificate and badge, and entry for one supervising adult to the Garden and Adventure Playground.
Can I bring more than one adult to Santa's Grotto?
Yes, one additional adult can enter the Grotto for an extra charge of £6.25. A maximum of two adults are permitted per child.
What is the 'The Pony Who Dreamed of Being a Reindeer' trail?
This is a daily story trail designed for children aged 3-8, where they follow a magical quest around the Garden to help a pony find a lost bell. It includes a prize upon completion.
Are there any food and drink options available?
Yes, visitors can purchase hot chocolate or mulled wine, and the Garden Shop offers gifts.
What is the refund policy for tickets?
Tickets are non-refundable, so please ensure you select the correct date and time before booking.