Santa Returns to Port Lympne Illuminated:
Book Your Magical Grotto Visit for Christmas 2026
Ho, ho, ho! The stockings have been hung, the sleigh bells polished and the elves are busy adding the final sparkle. Santa's Grotto is returning to Port Lympne Illuminated this winter, bringing a little extra magic to one of Kent's most enchanting Christmas days out.
From 27th November to 23rd December 2026, families can step inside a world of wonder and share a private, magical moment with Father Christmas himself, before heading out to explore the glittering illuminated trails. If you're looking for a Santa's Grotto in Kent that your little ones will be talking about long after the last mince pie has gone, this is it.
Find out moreWhat's Included in Your Visit to Santa's Grotto
Every visit is designed to feel personal, unhurried and utterly magical. Here's what's waiting for you inside:
A personal welcome from Santa
Thanks to his magical list (and a little help from you when you book), Santa will greet each child by name.
A cuddly keepsake for every child
Each child receives a cuddly gift to treasure for many Christmases to come.
Time to share festive wishes
There's plenty of time for your family to chat with Santa and his elves about all those Christmas hopes and dreams.
The elves' waiting room
Arrive a little early to make your way to the Port Lympne Mansion and soak up the excitement in the elves' waiting room before your slot.
Your own festive photos
Grab your phone and capture the moment for your family album.
A private experience
Each slot welcomes up to three children and two adults, so the magic is all yours.
The details at a glance
Dates: 27th November – 23rd December 2026
Times: From 2:00pm (final slot 7:50pm)
Admission: £22 per child, up to 3 per booking
Adults Free, up to 2 per booking
Age: No minimum age
Booking fee: £2.40 online booking fee per ticket
Every child attending must be accompanied by a parent or guardian aged 18 or over. Professional photography isn't offered, but you're welcome to take your own photos for personal use.
Important: You'll Need a Port Lympne Illuminated Ticket Too
Santa's Grotto is an exclusive add-on for guests visiting Port Lympne Illuminated, so a valid Port Lympne Illuminated admission ticket is required alongside your Santa's Grotto booking. Entry to the grotto won't be permitted without one.
Your grotto ticket doesn't include admission to Port Lympne, so please make sure your whole party has a valid admission ticket, annual pass or overnight stay booking, purchased separately. The good news? Booking both together takes just a few clicks, as you'll see below.
Booking Is as Easy as Writing Your Letter to Santa
Securing your spot in Santa's Grotto couldn't be simpler:
Already have your Port Lympne Illuminated tickets, or hold an Annual Pass? Simply email info@portlympne.com to add a grotto visit to your booking.
Get ahead of the festive rush and book early
Christmas has a habit of sneaking up on us all, and grotto slots are subject to availability. Booking early means you can pick the date and time that suits your family best, then sit back and enjoy the countdown.
It's also the perfect way to make sure your little ones are firmly on Santa's nice list. Once their names are in, the elves can get busy preparing for their visit, and you can tick one of the most magical moments of the season off your list before December even begins.
A few handy tips for the big day:
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before your slot to reach the Port Lympne Mansion and enjoy the elves' waiting room.
- Grotto tickets are non-refundable, but date or time changes may be possible through Customer Services, subject to availability.
- Some tickets may be available on the day, but to avoid disappointment, booking ahead is the safest bet.
