
It’s that time of year when little kids love going on a special trip to see Father Christmas to tell him what they want for Christmas. For families with a few little ones in tow it can be expensive, so here’s the lowdown on where to go in and around Bristol, with a Santa to suit all budgets.
Until Dec 24 – Meet Father Christmas and Paddington Bear at Cribbs Causeway
This isn’t the cheapest option but think of it as getting two for the price of one as this year Paddington Bear has got off the train at Templemeads and made it over to The Mall at Cribbs Causeway. You could make an afternoon of it as there’s a Santa’s Grotto, story time with Paddington Bear and ice skating. Tickets for the grotto start at £10.
Sat Dec 11 – Breakfast with Santa at The Mill House, Emersons Green
Now this looks like a bargain – a cooked breakfast, unlimited squash and a chat with the man himself all for £6 per child. Where do I sign up?
Now until Dec 24 – Father Christmas at Avon Valley
Make a day of it at Avon Valley and visit the enchanted village, take a trip on the Polar Express steam train and meet resident reindeers Donner, Blitzen and Vixen. It’s not cheap at £29.95 but it could be worth it.
Sat Dec 11 – The Crown’s Winter Wonderland
Take the kids to the Crown in Keynsham and they’ll get to see Santa as well as a hot chocolate and gift for a tenner. There’s also lots to do for all the family.
Sat Dec 11 Zion Christmas Market
This will set you back a fiver or £7.50 for two children and is taking place in Bishopsworth this Saturday from 10:30am.
Mon Dec 13 – Yate
If you’ve been wondering where you can take little ones to see Father Christmas, why not check out the Little Giggles Soft Play centre in Yate
Now until Dec 19 – Christmas Victorian Weekends at Brunel’s SS Great Britain
Perfect for a treat during the school holidays, historic characters from the 40s and 50s will make an appearance along with Old Father Christmas himself. Free with general admission costing £10 per child, family discount available.
Mon Dec 20 – Santa Float at The Maytree Pub, St Peter’s Rise
A chance to see the float up close from 6pm – this is a free event but organisers are raising money for children with cancer so please give what you can afford.
More from Broke in Bristol (& beyond):