Best Santa's grottos in Brighton 2026

With the festive season now in full swing down in Sussex, Santa is surely on everyone’s mind. The build-up to Christmas Day always full of exciting anticipation, whether it involves putting the treats out for Santa and his reindeer or decorating the Christmas tree with tinsels, baubles, stars and anything shiny. But you can’t have a Christmas involving the kids without taking them for a visit to the main man himself!

As well as being a city thriving with culture, pride and scenic seaside days out, Brighton is home to some cracking Santa’s Grottos. Pay Santa and his elves a visit and give him a low down on what to bring along on December 25th. Here are Skiddle’s picks for the best Santa’s Grotto’s in Brighton in 2025.

Santa in the Sky 

When: Saturday 6th - Thursday 24th December 2026

Where: Brighton i360 in Brighton 

Santa and his elves are taking the festivities to exciting new heights this winter! Join Father Christmas and his crew as they take to the skies, nestled in the viewing platform at the iconic Brighton i360. You can meet the big man himself, get a photo, and experience a wondrous 30-minute journey in the Brighton i360 pod. 

Find tickets for Santa in the Sky here.

Father Christmas at the Royal Pavilion 

When: 4 - 6 December, 11 - 13 December, 18 - 24 December

Where: Royal Pavilion Garden in Brighton

If you want to feel like royalty this Christmas, this is the event to look out for. Do away with the pained long waits and gruelling queues and trade it for an exclusive private slot with Father Christmas set against the iconic and stunning Royal Pavilion, where photo opportunities and festive games await in the Adelaide Rooms. The perfect Christmas haven doesn't stop there, as there's a luscious winter wonderland on your doorstep at the Royal Pavilion as well. 

Christmas at Drusillas Park

Photo: Drusillas Park / Facebook.com

When: 21st November - 23rd December

Where: Drusillas Park in Alfriston 

A perfect answer to those looking to briefly dip out of Brighton's hustle and bustle. but still looking to meet Santa. Located about 30 minutes from Brighton, this Santa's Grotto features Santa in a variety of festive settings, from his cosy abode to his scenic Ice Cave. The seasonal spirit is on full swing at Drusillas Park, not least helped by its jaw-dropping 24ft Christmas tree, it's one you don't want to miss!

Churchill Square Santa's Grotto

When: December 4 - December 24

Where: Churchill Square in Brighton

Throughout the festive month you can take a trip to see Santa himself at his grotto in the centre of the city. Every weekend of December has featured prize-winning opportunities, chances to have a peek inside Santa's Grotto and receive quality assistance from his magical elves. It's one to chill out to in the midst of the Christmas shopping chaos. 

Santa at Dobbies 

When: November 21st - December 24th

Where: Dobbie’s in Brighton

Dobbies up and down the country are welcoming Santa to their stores in a variety of ways, and Brighton is no different. The litany of festive events at Dobbies Brighton include breakfast with St Nick himself, and the main man being brought right to the centre of the store. Bring the kids on to meet Santa at Dobbies, where they are encouraged to share their excitement, wishes and stories before receiving a magical gift.

Santa's Grotto at Shelter Hall

When: Shelter Hall, Brighton

Where: 13th and 20th December

Meet Santa over at Shelter Hall, where you can meet the man himself and his elves. The kids can get creative in the craft room too, where they can write letters to Santa and create some festive keepsakes too. The bars and kitchens will be open too, serving winter specials throughout. 

For more things to do in Brighton over the Christmas holiday, check out our Christmas events in Brighton page here. 

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.