Where to see Santa in Manchester at Christmas 2022: grottos you can book now

It has already begun. There are advent calendars in supermarkets, restaurants have released their Christmas menus and children will soon be excitedly drafting their letters to Santa.

If you are already looking ahead to the festive season, here are some of Santa’s Grottos coming to Manchester for Christmas 2022.

East Lancashire Railway – Santa Specials

26 November – 24 December

Bury Bolton Street Station will be transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring a talking Christmas tree, and inviting guests on a special train ride – complete with a visit from Santa straight to your carriage. On the 80-minute to Rawtenstall Station and back, you’ll also encounter other Christmassy characters and listen to your favourite festive tunes performed by an on-board brass band.

The Santa train rides will take place every Saturday and Sunday starting on 26 November up until 24 December. Tickets are £23 and can be bought via the East Lancashire railway website.

Knowsley Safari – Santa Experience

Santa will be at Knowsley Safari Park this year from 19 November to 23 December, where you can combine a trip around the park with a visit to Santa’s Grotto. There are daytime and evening packages, but you can only purchase Santa Experience tickets alongside general admission tickets. More information can be found on the Knowsley Safari website.

Lancaster Park and Animal Farm – Christmas on the Farm

Every weekend from 3 December through to Christmas Eve, Santa will be at Lancaster Park and Animal Farm in Middleton. Children can write their letters in Santa’s log cabin, listen to a story from Mrs Claus in the cottage and meet the man himself. There’s no extra charge for photographs, but remember to bring your own camera or phone. All of the farm’s usual attractions will be open too, such as caterpillar barrel ride, mini quads and animal petting.

Tickets must be booked in advance and cost £9.50 for adults, £12.50 for children aged 1-15 and £6.50 for babies under 12 months. More information can be found on the farm’s website.

Tatton Park – Father Christmas at the Farm

Santa will be setting up shop in the Christmas Cafe located in the Clydesdale Barn this festive season. Children can also have their photos taken in a Santa’s sleigh and make magical reindeer food to take home and sprinkle on Christmas Eve.

Tickets cost £10 and include entry to the park. More information can be found on the Tatton Park website.

Portland Basin – Sail with Santa

The 2 Boards & A Passion Theatre Company are hosting a special Sail with Santa event this year in Ashton-under-Lyne, where you’ll get to take a 35-minute boat ride with Father Christmas, as well as enjoy some refreshments and sing-a-long. Tickets are £11 including booking fee and cane be found on the theatre company’s website.