Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Christmas at Mother Shipton's
Magical Christmas experience with Santa in a historic cave setting.
About
Step into a world of magic and wonder at Mother Shipton's Christmas experience, where Santa's elves welcome you. Children receive a festive activity pack and a magical pass. Explore the Christmas Village, meet Chief Elf Chestnut, and enjoy a special visit with Santa in his cozy grotto. Discover the Petrifying Well and Wishing Well, and warm up with festive treats.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Magical, enchanting, festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High (for outdoor areas)
Special Events & Promotions
- Named one of the 'Best Christmas Grottos to Meet Santa' by the Telegraph.
- Award-winning attraction with multiple accolades.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
$$$
Duration
Varies by ticket type and arrival time, with specific session slots.
Ages
All ages (Santa Experience for children aged 0-12)
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Mother Shipton's Cave
Practical Information
Parking
Parking within the attraction for the session time is included with Car Admission tickets. Parking is for visiting Mother Shipton’s only; you cannot walk out of the attraction and leave your car parked.
Accessibility
The Christmas Village and catering areas are accessible by pushchair or wheelchair. The grotto and Christmas activity huts may not be suitable for all wheelchairs or pushchairs due to narrow walkways and uneven surfaces. The Cave, Well, and Gift Shop are not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs due to steps. Please contact the team via email for specific accessibility questions.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (Service animals only)
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate, gingerbread biscuits, mince pies, and marshmallows for toasting available.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive promptly 15 minutes before your booked time slot to ensure you reach Santa's grotto on time. For later evening sessions, early arrival may be permitted to enjoy other activities before your Santa slot.
- Book both a Christmas Park Admission ticket and a Santa Experience ticket for children aged 0-12 to ensure full participation in activities and a visit with Santa.
- Wear sturdy footwear and waterproofs, as the attraction is an outdoor site situated in ancient woodland, and some areas are weather-dependent.
- Note that all transactions within the attraction are card-only; cash is not accepted.
- Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, except in the instance of full event cancellation by Mother Shipton's.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with the Santa Experience Ticket?
Children with a Santa Experience ticket receive a wristband entitling them to a festive activity pack, a family visit with Santa, and a special Santa gift.
Can I bring my dog?
No pets are allowed within the park during the Christmas event, with the exception of Guide/Assistance dogs.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The core experience is meeting Santa. If this proceeds, the event is considered to be happening, even if weather-dependent areas like the Cave or marshmallow toasting are closed. No refunds are given for closure of these specific areas.
Are there any age restrictions?
The Santa Experience is for children aged 0-12. Older siblings (13+) can accompany but won't receive a gift unless they have a Santa Experience ticket. All visitors must be accounted for in the park admission ticket headcount.
Is the venue accessible?
The Christmas Village and catering areas are accessible. However, the grotto, activity huts, Cave, Well, and Gift Shop may have accessibility limitations due to narrow walkways, uneven surfaces, or steps. Contact info@mothershipton.co.uk for specific queries.
