Christmas is here, and south east London is packed with festive fun and opportunities for your young ones to get involved in the festive spirit.

Santa is making stops across the area, and there’s something magical for every family.

From traditional grottos to immersive adventures, here are the best places to meet the man in red (or green!) this holiday season, with all the details you need to plan your visit.

Here is a list of places you can visit Santa in south east London:

 

1. Greenwich Market

Greenwich Market is a magical Christmas destination, with a Santa’s Grotto set up amidst the market’s beautiful craft and food stalls.

Children can meet Father Christmas and receive a small gift, while the market itself offers a fantastic array of handmade items and festive treats.

 It’s an ideal spot to soak up the Christmas spirit while supporting local traders.

Special Dates: December 1 (Green Sunday) and December 7 (Small Business Saturday)

Times: 11am – 3pm

Price: Free to meet Santa

2. Eltham Palace and Gardens – The Spirit of Christmas

This immersive Christmas adventure takes families on a journey through the grand art-deco mansion of Eltham Palace. Visitors help Father Christmas restore the magic of Christmas while enjoying interactive storytelling, performances, and stunning festive decorations. Children receive an ethically sourced gift, and there are plenty of opportunities for photos in this unforgettable experience.

Dates: November 23–24, November 30–December 1, December 7–8, December 14–15, December 21–22

Times: 9am – 8.30pm

Prices:

Adults: £25 + £2.90 booking fee (no gift)

Children: £30 + £2.90 booking fee (includes gift)

3. Ruxley Manor Grotto

A beloved tradition, the Ruxley Manor Grotto offers a truly magical experience. Families meet the Head Elf in the enchanted forest, join Mother Christmas in making reindeer food, and meet Santa in his private grotto. Each child receives a magical key to pick their own special gift from the toy workshop. SEN sessions ensure inclusivity for all children.

Dates: November 9 onwards

Price: From £39 per group

4. Danson House Grotto, Bexleyheath

Located in the historic Danson House, this grand library setting adds a unique touch to meeting Santa.

Children can share their Christmas wishes with Santa, receive a thoughtful gift, and opt for a professional photo.

A beautifully decorated Christmas tree in the foyer offers a great photo spot for families.

Dates: December 1–24 (weekends and select weekdays)

Times: 10am – 4pm

Prices:

Children: £10 + booking fee (includes gift)

Additional adults: £3 + booking fee

5. Royal Arsenal Riverside, Woolwich

This Christmas, Santa is bringing festive magic to Woolwich Works with his Gingerbread Grotto, complete with a lollipop-lined garden and icing-tiled roof!.

kids can meet Santa, receive a gingerbread gift, and decorate it at icing stations in the café.

Adults go free with ticketed children or pets, and families can enjoy crafting and photo opportunities

Dates: Until December 23

Prices:

Children and dogs: £10 + booking fee (includes gift)

6. Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich

Meet Father Christmas and his granddaughter, Helper-Bean, in the cosy surroundings of the Admiral’s House.

Sessions include a heart-warming reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas and a special gift for each child.

The intimate setting and festive decorations make this a magical experience for families.

Dates: November 30, December 1, December 7–8, December 14–15, December 19–23

Price: From £15 per person

7. Bexleyheath Broadway Ice Castle Grotto

This winter wonderland starts with a walk through a giant Christmas tree tower, leading to Santa’s Ice Castle.

Visitors can hop into Santa’s sleigh for a photo before meeting Santa himself in the throne room. Each child receives an age-appropriate gift.

Dates: Throughout December

Price: £7.50 + £1 booking fee

8. Breakfast with Santa

Start your day with a festive breakfast alongside Santa. Children enjoy a delicious meal, a drink, and a personal meeting with Santa, who has a gift for everyone.

The Yacht, Bexleyheath: £8.99 per child

Dates: December 14 and 21

The Earl Haig, Bexleyheath: £10.99 per person

Dates: December 7 and 8

9. Grove Park Community Library Christmas Market

Santa’s Grotto is a highlight of this community event, which also features handmade gifts, mulled wine, and a raffle. It’s a family-friendly afternoon with a local touch.

Date: December 7

Times: 12 PM – 4 PM

Price: £1 entry per adult; children enter free

10. The Duke of Greenwich Winter Garden

The Duke of Greenwich transforms its garden into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, a ski lodge cabin, and festive activities.

Santa visits every Saturday and Sunday to hand out free treats to kids. Families can also enjoy craft fairs, food, and photo opportunities.

Dates: Weekends in December

Price: Free to meet Santa; activity and food prices vary