A pre-Christmas weekend away + Santa is the perfect mix for getting your whole family into the festive spirit.
 
Maybe you’re looking for a memorable experience with the one and only Mr Claus this year? Something a bit different? If so, you’re in luck because our team have scouted out their favourite and most magical Santa encounters of the quirky kind!

Just please remember to pre-book your tickets before heading off on your festive adventure.

The Polar Express by Tram

The Polar Express by Tram; image courtesy of Seaton Tramway

Where: The Polar Express Tram Ride, Seaton, Devon EX12 2NQ
When: Selected dates between December 2 – 24 2016
Details: For a memorable experience for your little’uns, the Polar Express Tram Ride is a must. Just like everyone’s favourite Christmas movie, you are welcome to turn up for your trip to the North Pole in your jim jams! During the trip, sing-along with all the songs and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies served by the dancing chefs. Santa and his happy elves are there to dish out a special gift for each child.
Where to stay: Our East Devon holiday cottages are all within 30 minutes’ drive.

Festive Palace Trail

Christmas at Blenheim; image courtesy of Blenheim Palace

Where: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Cotswolds OX20 1PP
When: November 25 2016 – January 2 2017
Details: ‘Christmas at Blenheim’ is a magical time for children and adults alike, as it hosts its first ever after-dark trail of lights throughout the formal gardens. Discover a scented Fire Garden, Christmas trees that sing, a swaying lawn of fibre optic colour, sparkling hedgerows, glowing cascades and much, much more. As you emerge from the pea-lit twinkling arbour, catch sight of The Boat House, magically transformed as Santa’s secret Oxfordshire home, where young visitors can spill the beans about their Christmas wishes and receive a small present. Finish your evening with a warming festive drink and celebrate the season with a ride on the vintage carousel. Late night shopping and other treats are also available.
Where to stay: Our beautiful Cotswolds holiday cottages are all within easy access.

Santa by Steam

Santa by Steam; image courtesy of Bodmin & Wenford Railway

Where: Bodmin & Wenford Railway, Bodmin, Cornwall PL31 1AQ
When: Selected dates between December 3 – 24 2016
Details: Santa has ditched his sleigh in favour of a fun-filled journey through the beautiful Cornish countryside. Join Santa aboard his enchanting steam train for a one hour journey. Whilst on board, the elves will invite you to visit Santa in his magical grotto, where he will surprise your children with a special present. There’s time for a chat and a photo too. Adults can enjoy a seasonal drink and mince pie.
Where to stay: Our South East Cornwall holiday cottages, sleeping 2-10, are within a 25-40 minute drive.

Sail with Santa

Sail with Santa; image courtesy of Stuart Line Cruises

Where: Stuart Line Cruises, Exmouth, Devon EX8 1DS
When: Selected dates between November 28 2016 – January 1 2017.
Details: Meet Santa on a festively decorated boat with tinselled crew! During the hour-long cruise on the River Exe, mums and dads can witness the look of delight on their children’s faces as they visit Santa in his on-board grotto. Parents can also enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and an informative commentary while children are treated to some great activities including magic, music, face painting and balloon modelling, all topped off with refreshments.
Where to stay: Our East Devon holiday cottages are all within 30 minutes’ drive.

Santa in the Cellar

Santa in the Cellar; image © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

Where: Croft Castle & Parkland, near Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 9PW
When: Weekends in December 2016; book in advance by emailing croftcastle@nationaltrust.org.uk.
Details: For a unique castle experience with Santa and his elves, follow a festive trail down steep stone steps to his busy cellar workshop. While you’re beneath the Castle, enjoy some Christmassy crafts and a visit to Santa for an early gift. Don’t forget your Christmas wish lists! Experience the camaraderie of a Christmas on the home front at Croft too, during weekends from November 19. See the castle beautifully decorated for a wartime Christmas and enjoy live music, carols, memorabilia and early twentieth century traditions. More than just a trip to see Santa – it’s a whole day out!
Where to stay: Gorgeous Hampton Wafre Cottage is 20 minutes’ drive away.

What else?

All sorts of Santa encounters and Christmas events can be found in the “Things to do & Events” section for each property on our website. Making it easy for you to find the best festive fairs, markets, carol services, pantomimes and more! Or call us on 01275 21 75 75 and we’ll happily help you out.
 
Whichever Staycation break you choose, there’s no need to miss out on the festive fun when you’re with us.