The best Santa's grottos in Newcastle 2026

'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 Stories 

When: November 21st - Wednesday 24th

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. With 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! Not only that, you'll be able to see the man in red sign off certificates, interact with families, and pose for pictures. 

The Santa Experience 

When: 21st November - 23rd December

Where: Life Science Centre in Newcastle

Life Science Centre on Times Square invites you to their well-loved Santa Experience, with a fresh take and all sorts of festive fun on offer. They’ll be screening their ‘What Santa Sees’ where Santa uses science to solve festive problems. To keep the festive spirit going, each child will receive a hot chocolate, a treat, and a special Christmas gift. 

Santa's Grotto at Matfen Hall 

When: Friday 4th December - Saturday 20th December

Where: Matfen Hall Hotel in Newcastle 

The estate at Maften Hall is returning to bring us one of the best Santa's grottos in Newcastle. 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 their popular Polar Express event. With a golden ticket sent in the post, have a delicious hot chocolate on arrival before you watch the classic that is The Polar Express 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 6th, 13th and 20th December 2025

Where: The Vermont Hotel in Newcastle

A delicious and cosy Sunday lunch to the run up for Christmas? Who's going to say no? The Vermont Hotel invites you to join them in their Maven Restaurant for a traditional family Sunday three-course lunch. Choose between roast turkey, nut roast, slow-cooked 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. A delicious way to start Christmas. 

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. 

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.

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