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Wondering which locations are hosting Santa’s Grotto in Edinburgh this year? We’ve had an email from the big man’s elves who have kindly pinpointed his route for December however, you must book a time slot to meet Santa in Edinburgh or you’ll be on the naughty list!
You may also like our guides to Edinburgh in December, best places to see decor and lights, festive menus and Christmas dinner and Christmas hotels in Edinburgh.
*** This guide will be updated when schedules are released this winter.
Where To See Santa In Edinburgh This Year
Edinburgh’s Christmas Santa Grotto – Book Now For 202?
Listen to a story read by Santa from 18 Nov-24 December at the grotto on St Andrew Square.
Sessions last 20 minutes and host up to 22 little ones, and each child will have the chance to meet Santa and get a gift.
Tickets are time allocated.
Santa’s Stories is one of the many official Edinburgh Christmas events in the city this winter.
Double Tree by Hilton – Book Now For 202?
Dine with Santa at the Double Tree by Hilton festive brunch!
The event includes music provided by a DJ, entertainment, and a gift for all kids.
Brewhemia – Book Now For 202?
Party and event central, Brewhemia, is putting on a number of festive events for wee and big kids, including Sleighbell Sundays.
In December, the Beer Palace is dedicated to family time, delicious festive food, entertainment, and Santa Claus.
Dine with Santa over brunch or Sunday roast.
Cold Town House – Book Now For 202?
Santa loves to brunch as much as any big kid, so he’s stopping off at the scenic Cold Town House to enjoy some breakfast in the Old Town, and your family can join him.
I wonder if he prefers red or brown?
So while you can’t get gassed on the Grassmarket, you can have a gas with Mr Claus on the 5th, 12th or 19th December. Book online.
This is a sell-out event.
Dobbies Edinburgh – Book Now For 202?
The city welcomes the return of this old faithful Santa meet and spaces are booking out fast so don’t delay making a reservation.
The event includes a walk through Santa’s toyshop and a gift from Santa.
Professional photography is available for an additional fee.
Little Dobbies, Stockbridge – TBD
Double celebrations for Dobbies as they christen their new Stockbridge store with a potential Santa parade at the Raeburn Place location.
See the local store for up-to-date information.
Ocean Terminal, Leith – Book Now For 202?
Santa is making a stop down by the docks!
Santa’s elves are working overtime to get Santa’s Grotto at Ocean Terminal in Leith set up on the first floor, just in time for Rudolph touching down.
Book your ticket here.
There will also be relaxed sessions with extra time for kids with additional needs.
While you are there, why not pop into Leith Creative and shop local?
Royal Botanic Garden – Book Now For 202?
Previously, Santa has been waiting for wee ones as they work their way through the light installations and projections in the Royal Botanic Gardens at Arboretum Place.
You can reserve your tickets here.
Santa’s Grotto Near Edinburgh City Centre
Craigies Farm, Queensferry – Book Now For 202?
Learn about the magic of Christmas with Mr Claus at the Craigies Farm Santa Experience in South Queensferry.
Work your way through the North Pole, starting passport control and ending at Santa’s grotto.
All tickets include a present, a reindeer food making experience, and a photo with Santa.
Book online.
Carberry Tower, Musselburgh – Book Now For 202?
This is Santa’s seventh visit to Carberry Tower Mansion House and Estate and each year he has been met with full house so make sure you reserve a place early.
Children will receive a gift from Santa at his famous grotto.
Enjoy a hot chocolate and muffin or a meal by the log fire in the bistro with discount for grotto ticket holders.
Get your kid’s ticket here, no need to purchase for adults.
Conifox Adventure Park, Kirkliston – Book Now For 202?
Another popular stop just outside of the city is Conifox Adventure Park.
Collect stamps on your Christmas Passport as you walk around Winter Wonderland, visit Santa in his living room and his elves at the Toy Workshop.
Tickets can be bought here.
Archfield Walled Garden – Book Now For 202?
This wee green haven in North Berwick is kid-friendly all year round and calls for all good one to join Santa at the Walled Garden premises in December.
Santa will tell a story to the group then invite families to collect their gift at his sorting office.
Non-refundable tickets for kids can be purchased here.
Our Christmas in Edinburgh Guides
Any questions or comments?
Let us know below.
Dear Santa we will see you soon from Michelle and lady dog