New… wrap up warm for your magical woodland journey to Santa!
Into the enchanted woods you go to meet your very own elf and make your way along the lakeside path to the Reindeer copse then on to meet Santa himself. Settled in the grotto, share your wishlist and pose with Santa for your official photo before choosing your gift.
With your gift and photo in hand, you’ll say goodbye to Santa and head to the woodland’s magical wishing tree then along the lakeside walk to complete your Christmas journey.
This year’s magical journey to Santa is an individual family experience in the outdoors at Tong Garden Centre.
Where is the Grotto?
The Grotto is an outdoor experience this year, that includes a woodland walk around the lake behind Grass Hoppers. Although you will enter Santa’s grotto during your experience, please wrap up warm as the woodland walk around the lake is all outside.
On arrival at Tong Garden Centre, make your way directly to Grass Hoppers main entrance where our Christmas elf will direct you to the waiting area for your stated time.
What happens when I buy a ticket online?
Once your order is complete, you will be emailed your ticket which will contain a barcode and booking reference number. Present this ticket on arrival, or if you don’t have a printer, simply make a note of the Booking Reference Number. If you have a smartphone or tablet, you may also show your confirmation on screen.
I don’t have a printer…
You do not have to print out the 8-digit booking reference – simply make a note of the Booking Reference Number and take it with you, coupled with some ID. If you have a smartphone, you may also show your confirmation on screen.
My ticket has not arrived – what should I do?
You will receive your automated ticket(s) by email immediately following a successful payment. If you do not receive your ticket(s) please call 0113 285 3506 or email enquiries@tonggardencentre.co.uk. We do encourage you to check your Junk Folder just in case.
Can I purchase a ticket in-store or on the day?
Booking for Santa’s grotto is only available online and, as dates sell out quickly, it is unlikely you will be able to purchase a ticket on the day. We strongly advise booking online in advance to avoid disappointment.
Is there an adult charge?
Every booking includes a maximum of TWO adults free of charge. Additional adult tickets can be purchased online, at the time of booking, at a cost of £2.50 each. There is a maximum group size of six individuals per grotto booking.
Is there a limit to the amount of adult tickets I can bring?
A maximum of two adults per child ticket will be permitted free of charge and must have a valid ticket. All additional adults are charged at £2.50 each subject to availability. There is a maximum group size of six individuals per grotto booking.
Is it an individual visit to Santa?
Yes you will see Santa as an individual family in the grotto. On arrival, you will be with other families before you meet you own elf and start your journey to Santa as a family.
Why has the price increased?
We have listened to our customers’ feedback and know that an individual family experience with Santa is really valued, as is a photograph taken in the grotto with Santa. Last year, you also told us that your own personal elf made the experience even more magical. As this year is a new experience outside, we wanted to include all the elements that we know customers really value and so your magical journey to Santa is now an individual family experience, escorted by your own elf and includes a photograph in a Christmas card as well as the choice of gift from Santa. We recognise that this means an increase in the price of a ticket for a more personalised and individual experience.
How long does it last?
Your grotto experience lasts approximately 20 minutes and will start at the specified time shown on your ticket (this will be specified online when booking and on your ticket when booked). Please arrive at the Grotto waiting area at the entrance to Grass Hoppers approximately 10 minutes before the time stated on your ticket. The centre can very busy so do allow adequate time to park and make your way through the centre. Please ensure you allow plenty of time to travel and park, as we do get busy – particularly at weekends and during Christmas week.
Do you issue refunds?
Bookings are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Can I cancel my booking?
Unfortunately once a booking has been made, tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.
I am running late and I have missed my slot, can I go on the next one?
Unfortunately bookings are non-refundable and non-transferable. We strongly urge you to allow adequate travel and parking time before visiting the Grotto, as we are also unable to delay the start time of any of our sessions.
I booked a time slot but can’t make it, can I change it?
Unfortunately bookings are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Is there wheelchair access?
Yes we have suitable access. If you have any particular requirements please get in touch on 0113 285 3506 or you can email enquiries@tonggardencentre.co.uk.
Is Breakfast with Santa available this year
Unfortunately our Breakfast with Santa event is sold out
