Santa Grottos and Family Christmas Events in Somerset (2025)
Discover the best Christmas events in Somerset, including Santa grottos, family attractions, festive trains and magical experiences. Dates, times, tickets, parking and full details inside.
Updated 03/12/2025
Somerset comes alive at Christmas with warmth, light, and festive magic in every town, village, and attraction. Families return year after year to enjoy enchanting grottos, sparkling illuminations, seasonal shows, and memorable meetings with Santa himself. From candlelit gardens to animated winter wonderlands and historic steam railways, the season offers something for every family. Children can explore twinkling trails, enjoy storytelling sessions, ride festive trains, and collect thoughtful gifts from Father Christmas.
Parents can relax in beautifully decorated settings filled with cheerful music, comforting food, and joyful activities that capture the heart of the holiday season. Many events feature artisan markets, creative workshops, and themed entertainment, making it easy to build a special day out for the whole family. Whether you are seeking a traditional grotto experience or a larger attraction with seasonal extras, Somerset provides a delightful mix of cosy charm and dazzling spectacle. Each venue designs its Christmas programme to feel immersive and memorable, helping families create treasured moments as the year draws to a close.
Below you’ll find six of the very best 2025 Christmas events in Somerset, carefully selected for their quality, atmosphere, and family-friendly appeal. Along with each description, you’ll find the event’s date, time, location, website, ticket link, and parking details to help you plan your visit with ease. Let the magic begin!
Wookey Hole – Santa’s Grotto Experience
Wookey Hole’s Santa’s Grotto Experience is one of Somerset’s most loved Christmas events, inviting families into a world of festive wonder inside its famous caves. The experience begins with beautifully decorated pathways lined with twinkling lights, friendly elves, and cheerful music that sets the tone for a magical visit. Children can enjoy meeting Santa in his warm, glowing grotto, where he listens patiently to their wishes before presenting each child with a wrapped gift.
The Enchanted Valley outside the caves is transformed with sparkling displays, festive sculptures, and opportunities for photographs that become treasured keepsakes. Families can explore the Winter Circus Show, featuring seasonal stunts and lively entertainment that adds excitement to the day. Inside the main attraction, guests can visit the vintage penny arcade, paper mill demonstrations, and various themed exhibits, all given a festive twist for the season.
Dates: weekends from 22nd November and daily from 20th to 24th December 2025
Time: Typically 10:00–17:00
Address: Wookey Hole Caves, Wells BA5 1BB
Tickets : Available via official website here
Parking: Free on-site parking available
The overall experience feels immersive and cosy, combining classic Christmas charm with the unique atmosphere of Wookey Hole’s setting. Visitors appreciate the relaxed pace and family-friendly layout, allowing plenty of time for photos, exploration, refreshments, and holiday shopping. It’s a wonderful choice for families seeking a joyful, atmospheric outing filled with memories.
Puxton Park – Winter Wonderland & Santa’s Grotto
Puxton Park’s Winter Wonderland transforms the entire attraction into a festive playground filled with lights, music, and cheerful seasonal décor. Families begin their visit by following illuminated pathways guided by friendly elves who help build excitement as children approach Santa’s traditional grotto. Inside, Father Christmas greets each family with warmth and attention, taking time to speak with every child before presenting them with a personalised gift.
Beyond the grotto, the park offers a wide range of festive activities, including storytelling sessions, ornament decorating, and hands-on workshops that let children create keepsakes to take home. The indoor play barn becomes a winter hub where younger visitors can enjoy climbing frames and soft-play adventures, offering a comfortable retreat from the chilly weather. Outdoors, the animals at Puxton’s farm area remain part of the experience, with seasonal talks and feeding sessions adding educational fun to the day. Seasonal treats are available from the café, where families can enjoy hot chocolates, festive pastries, and warming meals.
Dates: 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, and 21st–24th Decemberr
Time: Usually 09:00–17:00
Address: Puxton Park, Cowslip Lane, Hewish BS24 6AH
Tickets: Available via official website here
Parking: Free on-site parking
Many families appreciate the balance of structured Christmas experiences and open-ended park activities, making it easy to tailor the day to their children’s interests. The entire atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming, and perfect for families seeking a cheerful, hands-on Christmas outing.
Hestercombe Gardens – Christmas Illuminations & Grotto
Hestercombe Gardens becomes a breathtaking winter spectacle during the festive season, combining its historic grounds with magical lighting to create an enchanting evening experience. Families stroll along beautifully illuminated pathways that highlight the estate’s water features, architectural gems, and woodland areas. Gentle music drifts through the gardens, enhancing the peaceful yet festive atmosphere. Children especially enjoy exploring the glowing trails and spotting seasonal characters positioned along the route.
A highlight of the event is the cosy grotto, where Santa waits to welcome young visitors. Decorated with rustic charm and warm lighting, the grotto feels intimate and traditional, offering families a quiet moment to enjoy a personal visit with Father Christmas. After meeting Santa, guests can wander into the Stables Cafe for hot drinks, festive cakes, and seasonal meals that make the evening feel even more special. The house and courtyard also feature holiday decorations, artisan stalls, and small gift displays that encourage slow browsing and relaxed shopping.
Dates: Late November through December
Time: 16:00–20:00
Address: Hestercombe Gardens, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton TA2 8LG
Tickets: Available via official website here
Parking: Free parking on site
The entire experience is designed to be gentle, magical, and immersive without feeling overwhelming, making it ideal for families seeking a calmer alternative to high-energy attractions. With its stunning setting, thoughtful lighting design, and warm hospitality, Hestercombe Gardens offers a Christmas experience that feels refined, memorable, and deeply atmospheric.
West Somerset Railway – Santa Express
The West Somerset Railway Santa Express is one of the region’s most charming and nostalgic Christmas outings. Families board beautifully decorated heritage steam trains, greeted by cheerful volunteers and festive music that immediately set the tone for a magical journey. As the train travels through the Somerset countryside, passengers enjoy views of rolling fields, coastal stretches, and quaint villages that look especially picturesque during winter.
Inside the carriages, children are entertained by elves who share jokes, lead singing, and build excitement for Santa’s arrival. Father Christmas then walks through the train, greeting each family personally and handing out gifts to young passengers. The atmosphere is warm, relaxed, and filled with classic Christmas spirit, making it a wonderful experience for children and adults alike. Many families appreciate the slower pace and traditional feel that only a heritage railway can offer.
Dates: Selected dates in December
Time: Varies by departure
Address: Minehead Station, Minehead TA24 5BG
Tickets: Available via official website here
Parking: Local parking available near stations
The station itself is decorated with twinkling lights, seasonal displays, and photo opportunities that add to the festive mood before and after the journey. Hot drinks, snacks, and small treats are available, making it easy to enjoy a comfortable and enjoyable outing. Whether it’s your first time or part of a family tradition, the Santa Express offers a heartwarming experience filled with nostalgia and joy.
Fleet Air Arm Museum – Christmas at the Museum
Christmas at the Fleet Air Arm Museum offers a unique festive experience that blends seasonal magic with aviation history. Families can explore the museum’s impressive aircraft displays, interactive exhibits, and immersive hangars, all enhanced with cheerful Christmas decorations. The experience includes a delightful meeting with Santa in a themed grotto inspired by aviation, where Father Christmas greets each child personally and presents them with a thoughtful gift. Friendly elves guide families through the grotto and encourage children to share their Christmas wishes, making the visit feel personalised and memorable.
Throughout the museum, additional festive activities may include craft sessions, storytelling corners, and themed photo opportunities that blend history with holiday charm. Children are encouraged to explore the exhibits, climb into mock cockpits, and enjoy hands-on learning experiences that keep them engaged throughout the visit. Parents appreciate the balance of education and entertainment, as well as the spacious indoor layout that makes the attraction comfortable during winter weather.
Dates: December
Time: 10:00–16:30
Address: RNAS Yeovilton, Ilchester BA22 8HT
Tickets: Available via official website here
Parking: Free on-site parking
The museum café offers seasonal treats, hot drinks, and family-friendly meals, giving visitors an easy place to relax after exploring. With its blend of aviation excitement and traditional Christmas cheer, the Fleet Air Arm Museum creates an experience that appeals to both young adventurers and adults looking for a unique festive day out.
Longleat – Festival of Light & Santa Train
Although just outside Somerset, Longleat’s Festival of Light is widely considered one of the most spectacular Christmas events accessible to Somerset families. Each year, the estate transforms into a glowing world of enormous lanterns, illuminated scenes, and artistic displays that retell classic stories and original themes. Families wander through vibrant pathways filled with beautifully crafted sculptures, dazzling lights, and enchanting music that bring every scene to life. A major highlight for children is the Santa Train, a cheerful ride that takes families through the woodland to meet Father Christmas in his festive cabin.
Santa spends time with each child, offering warm conversation and a thoughtful gift, creating a moment that feels personal and magical. In addition to the grotto and illuminations, Longleat offers a seasonal light show with synchronised music, festive food stalls, and charming decorations throughout the main square. Visitors can also explore the famous Longleat House, which is adorned with historical Christmas décor that adds elegance to the experience. The Safari Park remains open during the day, offering families even more adventure.
Dates: 8 November – 11 January
Time: Various timed entry slots
Address: Longleat, Warminster BA12 7NW
Tickets: Available via official website here
Parking: Paid on-site parking
With its dramatic scale, creative artistry, and captivating entertainment, the Festival of Light offers a full-day experience that feels both luxurious and joyous. It remains a favourite festive tradition for families across Somerset and beyond.
Somerset offers a wonderful variety of Christmas events, each bringing its own flavour of festive magic to the season. From illuminated gardens and enchanting grottos to nostalgic steam trains and spectacular light trails, families can find the perfect experience to match their holiday traditions. These attractions are designed to create warm memories, encourage togetherness, and fill the season with joy.
Whether you prefer quiet, glowing trails or lively entertainment packed with activities, Somerset provides beautiful settings and welcoming hosts that make every visit special. With so many magical places to explore, there has never been a better time to gather your loved ones and enjoy the festive spirit across the county. Let the lights, music, and cheerful moments guide you into a Christmas full of wonder.
