The best Santa's grottos in Newcastle this Christmas

'Tis truly the season. With the markets parked up for some Christmas cheer, it means that the most festive day of the year is only a few weeks away. And with so much to do, it may feel like the options are endless on where to take the kids. However, if you're not feeling like getting lost in the crowds just to bag yourself a Yorkshire pudding wrap, don't worry, because we've got the solution that'll tick all those festive boxes. 

With the magic of the holiday season being next-level when you’re little, it makes sense you want to make it as brilliant as it can be. One of the best ways to get your bairns into the festive spirit is by taking them to a Santa's grotto in Newcastle, where they can meet the big man himself. 

So with Santa Claus is coming to toon, check out all the best places to see Santa in Newcastle this year. 

Santa's Grotto Newcastle Winter Wonderland

When: Friday 5th - Wednesday 24th December 2025

Where: The Big Wish Ltd, Arena Way in Newcastle 

Bring the song to life for the kids this Christmas with the chance to walk through Newcastle's Winter Wonderland to see the big man himself. Taking a break from toy making, Santa will be spreading some Christmas cheer, from telling tales to children to listening to little ones ' lists. 

With a Christmas tree and piles of presents in the background, this Newcastle Santas Grotto will be a magical setting is perfect for creating unforgettable memories. 

Santa Stories 

When: Saturday 15th November - Wednesday 24th December 2025

Where: Christmas Village at Eldon Square in Newcastle 

Newcastle's Christmas village is known for bringing an unreal amount of festive spirit, and this year is no different. Stacked with a captivating storytelling adventure, join Santa and his elves in the Santa Stories Tipi. Telling one of four enchanting tales from Lapland, offering a new magical journey each time you visit, you'll be able to help Santa complete his Nice List by filling out a fun questionnaire! 

Finally, you'll be able to see the man in red sign off certificates, interact with families, and pose for pictures. 

The Santa Experience 

When: Saturday 29th November - Tuesday 23rd Deember 2025

Where: Life Science Centre in Newcastle

Life Science Centre on Times Square invites you to their Santa Experience with all sorts of festive fun on offer. Over in the planetarium, they’ll be screening their ‘What Santa Sees’ where Santa uses science to solve festive problems and watch him and his reindeer travel all across the world. Every child will receive a hot chocolate, a treat, and a special Christmas gift. The experience also grants access to the entire Science Centre and holiday activities. 

Santa's Grotto at Matfen Hall 

When: Friday 5th December - Saturday 20th December 2025

Where: Matfen Hall Hotel in Newcastle 

The beautiful estate at Maften Hall is ready to bring us one of the best Santa's grottos in Newcastle this year. With fun at the forefront, the kids will be able to visit the big man in his festive workshop, where they’ll be able to enjoy a hot chocolate to get them in the Christmas spirit.

The Polar Express Family Event 

When: Saturday 20th and 24th December 2025

Where: Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle 

Tyneside Cinema brings a bunch of Christmas events to the city this year, including this Polar Express event. Before the event begins, each child attending will receive a golden ticket in the post. When they arrive at the cinema, they’ll receive a hot chocolate before they head in to watch the Christmas classic The Polar Express, where the conductor will check their tickets. When the film’s finished, everyone will have the chance to meet Santa and get a gift. It’s perfect for those looking for something festive but a little different. 

Santa’s Sunday Lunch 

When: Sunday 7th, 14th and 21st December 2025

Where: The Vermont Hotel in Newcastle

The Vermont Hotel invites you to join them in their Maven Restaurant for a traditional family Sunday lunch. With roast turkey, nut roast, beef, salmon, and more available for main courses, including vegan and gluten-free options, the menu looks incredible. You'll enjoy a delicious festive meal before Santa stops by your table for a visit. All children on the Nice list will receive a treat from Santa. 

And that’s where to see Santa in Newcastle this year! And if you want to fill the Christmas period with as many thrills as possible, check out what Christmas events are coming to the city. 

And if you’re celebrating Christmas elsewhere, check out our blogs covering the best grottos in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield, Leeds, Birmingham, Nottingham, Bristol, and Cambridge, London. 

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.

Header: Newcastle's Christmas / Instagram.com