The best Santa's Grottos in Brighton this Christmas

With the festive season now in full swing down in Sussex, Santa is surely on everyone’s mind. The build-up to Christmas Day is one full of excitement and anticipation, whether it involves putting the treats out for Santa and his reindeer or decorating the Christmas tree with tinsels, baubles, stars and anything shiny. But you can’t have a Christmas involving the littluns without taking them for a visit to the main man himself to make sure he’s all up to date with what presents are on the list. 

As well as being a city thriving with culture, pride and scenic seaside days out, Brighton is home to some cracking Santa’s Grottos, where you can pay Santa and his elves a visit and give him a low down on what to bring along on December 25th. Here are Skiddle’s picks for the best Santa’s Grotto’s in Brighton. If you haven’t made plans for spending Christmas in East Sussex yet then don’t fret, as we’ve got plenty of events you can check out here. 

Santa in the Sky 

Photo: _drz_ / Unsplash.com

When: Saturday 2nd - Sunday 24th December 2023 

Where: Brighton i360 in Brighton 

Santa and his elves have been taking the festivities to exciting new heights this month! Join Father Christmas and his crew as they take to the skies, nestled in the viewing platform at the iconic Brighton i360. If that wasn't enough, you can also look forward to a festive-themed cream tea to round off what will surely be an unforgettable experience. 

Father Christmas at the Royal Pavilion 

Photo: Kraken Images / Unsplash.com

When: Friday 1st - Sunday 24th December 2023

Where: Royal Pavilion Garden in Brighton

If you want to feel like royalty this Christmas, this is the event to look out for. Do away with the pained long waits and gruelling queues and trade it for an exclusive private slot with Father Christmas set against the iconic and stunning Royal Pavilion & Garden. The perfect Christmas haven doesn't stop there, as there's a luscious winter wonderland on your doorstep at the Royal Pavilion as well. 

Brighton Palace Pier Santa Afternoon Tea

Photo: Darren Coleshill / Unsplash.com

When: Thursday 21st - Saturday 23rd December 2023

Where: Brighton Palace Pier in Brighton

Wondering where to see Santa and want to fill your bellies while doing so? Perhaps a cosy afternoon tea setting with the main man will have you covered. Hosted over three days in the eager build-up to Christmas on the city's famous pier, enjoy meals for both the adults and littluns. Santa will even have a small gift in store for the kids if that wasn't enough. 

Christmas at Drusillas Park

Photo: Drusillas Park / Facebook.com

When: Saturday 25th November - Saturday 23rd December 2023

Where: Drusillas Park in Alfriston 

A perfect answer to those looking to briefly dip out of Brighton's hustle and bustle but still looking to see Santa. Located about 30 minutes from Brighton, this Santa's Grotton features Santa in a variety of festive settings, from his cosy abode to his scenic Ice Cave. The seasonal spirit is on full swing at Drusillas Park, not least helped by its jaw-dropping 24ft Christmas tree, it's one you don't want to miss!

Churchill Square Christmas Grotto

Photo: Mike Arney / Unsplash.com

When: Friday 1st - Sunday 24th December 2023

Where: Churchill Square in Brighton

Throughout the festive month you can take a trip to see Santa himself at his grotto in the centre of the city. Every weekend of December has featured prize-winning opportunities, chances to have a peek inside Santa's Grotto and receive quality assistance from his magical elves. It's one to chill out to in the midst of the Christmas shopping chaos. 

Santa's Grotto at Borde Hill Gardens 

Photo: Borde Hill Garden / Facebook.com

When: Monday 18th - Tuesday 19th December 2023 

Where: Borde Hill Gardens in Haywards Heath

Get on this one quick! Another Santa's Grotto that removes you from the business of Brighton, being located about 40 minutes away in Haywards Heath, head to the lush rural atmosphere of Borde Hill Gardens to experience a grotto like no other. For kids they can look forward to crafting their very own Christmas trees and get a tour of Santa's famous workshop from one of his elves. Top it all off with a gift from Santa and you've got the perfect Christmas day out. 

For more things to do in Brighton over the Christmas holiday, check out our Christmas events in Brighton page here. 

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.