Santa's Grotto 2025
Meet Santa at Dobbies
- Next Event
- 23rd November - All day
- Following 14 Events
27/11/25 00:00
-27/11/25 00:00
29/11/25 00:00
-29/11/25 00:00
30/11/25 00:00
-30/11/25 00:00
06/12/25 00:00
-06/12/25 00:00
07/12/25 00:00
-07/12/25 00:00
13/12/25 00:00
-13/12/25 00:00
14/12/25 00:00
-14/12/25 00:00
18/12/25 00:00
-18/12/25 00:00
19/12/25 00:00
-19/12/25 00:00
20/12/25 00:00
-20/12/25 00:00
21/12/25 00:00
-21/12/25 00:00
22/12/25 00:00
-22/12/25 00:00
23/12/25 00:00
-23/12/25 00:00
24/12/25 00:00
-24/12/25 00:00
About this event
Santa’s Grotto is always one of the most popular experiences at Dobbies Bury St Edmunds!
You’ll receive a warm welcome from the elves before you take part in their North Pole adventure. Children will get to experience snowy scenes, ice fish with the penguins, help the polar bears improve their ice hockey skills, shoot some snowball hoops and see where Santa’s reindeer live, all before getting the chance to meet Santa himself.
Event highlights:
Magical adventure: their elves have been working hard to create a theatrical experience for your little ones involving ice sport games and a reindeer stable where you can make your own reindeer food. Please note there are no real reindeers involved in the experience.
Fun activities: ice fishing, snowball shootout, reindeer food making and more.
Meet Santa: individual time with Santa where your children can share their Christmas wishes.
Photo opportunities: capture the moment with a professional printed photo with Santa with reduced rates at time of booking.
Gift from Santa: every child will receive a wrapped gift suitable for their age range.
Photography
Their elves are ready to capture your memories with Santa. They offer printed photos taken on professional equipment so all the family can be included and no-one is left holding the camera! You can also choose to pre-book one of their special photo options and save 20% compared to on-the-day prices.
All their sites will offer printed photography this year and, included in your picture price, is a children’s activity booklet. You can pre-order your photo book for just £8 compared to the on the day price of £10. They also have a lovely selection of eco-friendly wooden Christmas tree ornament frames and snow frames, all available at 20% off when pre-booking. A perfect gift for your loved ones.
A visit to Santa at Dobbies = a greener future
This year your grotto ticket will help support a very special project, The Dumyat Project. Dobbies was founded in Scotland in 1865, and as they wrap up celebrations of our 160th year, we’re turning to the future. With your grotto ticket purchase, you’re helping to support the planting of up to 3,000 trees in this beautiful region of Scotland that needs help. You can find out more about the project on their website.
Cost
From £14 - £16 per child, date dependant
Dobbies also offer a Quiet Grotto experience visit their website for more details.
About the Venue
In the heart of Suffolk, Dobbies Bury St Edmunds offers a relaxing shopping and dining experience just a short drive from the historic town centre. Surrounded by iconic landmarks like Abbey Gardens and St Edmundsbury Cathedral, it’s the perfect place to pause and be inspired.
Whether you're a green-fingered gardener or just learning the ropes, you'll find a wide selection of plants to explore - from seasonal blooms to hardy perennials and indoor favourites. Plus, our friendly Green Team are always on hand with top tips and ideas.
Inside, you’ll discover everything you need to grow and care for your outdoor space, from tools, garden machinery and compost to decorative features. You'll also find home and lifestyle collections offering thoughtful gifts, stylish clothing, and creative pastimes.
When it’s time for a break, enjoy freshly made sandwiches, a range of hot dishes like our famous fish and chips, alongside a tempting range of scones, cream cakes and other indulgent treats in our spacious restaurant. With plenty of seating both indoors and out, it’s a great spot to relax with a friend, unwind with your family or to take some time to yourself.
With free parking, accessible facilities, and a dog-friendly policy, Dobbies Bury St Edmunds is more than just a garden centre. Whether you're planning a day out or just popping in for inspiration, we can't wait to welcome you.
