Where to Meet Santa in Reading This Christmas: Grottos, Breakfasts and Festive Family Fun

12th November 2026

Fancy catching up with Father Christmas himself before the big day? You’re in luck – he’ll be dropping by in Reading in the run up to Christmas so little ones can catch him in the flesh and make sure they're on the 'nice' list. Here are some of the places in and around town that you’ll be able to find him during the festive season. 

Broad Street Mall's Grotto | 21 Nov – 24 December

Santa’s sleigh is landing at Central Square in Broad Street Mall this Christmas! From 15 November to 24 December, families can drop in on selected dates to meet Father Christmas – no booking needed. For £6 per child, enjoy a magical meet-and-greet and a festive gift, with photos available to purchase separately.

'Reverse Santa' in Caversham | 4 December

Santa is doing things a little differently in Caversham this Christmas! Rather than handing out presents, Reverse Santa will be collecting food donations for the Weller Centre food bank, helping make Christmas brighter for local families. Bring along a tin, packet or jar and do your bit for the community.

While you're there, enjoy everything Cavmas has to offer, including a festive market, late-opening independent shops, mulled wine, live entertainment and The Great Elf Hunt for little ones.

Reading High Street | 20 December

 
Santa will be visiting Reading town centre between 12 and 2pm to say hello to shoppers and spread some festive cheer ahead of the big day. There’s no need to book, just make sure you’re on Broad Street to say hello and let him know what’s on your Christmas wish list. 

Winter Wonderland Santa’s Grotto | 5 – 24 December

Reading Winter Wonderland’s most popular experience is back for another year, with the chance to meet Santa and his Elf. Sure to be a magical experience, you can even take your own photos of the experience! Tickets need to be booked and cost £22 per child, plus booking fee – includes a gift from Santa. 

Beale Wildlife Park | 5 – 24 December

Santa is coming to visit everyone this year, even the animals at Beale Park! Meet him as part of your park admission, at no extra cost. While you’re there, make the most of the festive fun with reindeer feeding and train rides.

Toby Carvery Caversham Bridge | 5 – 24 December

Start the day with a festive Breakfast with Santa at Toby Carvery Caversham Bridge! Little ones can enjoy a tasty breakfast before meeting Father Christmas and soaking up the Christmas cheer.

Shinfield Garden Centre | 19 – 24 December

Head to Shinfield Garden Centre for a festive Breakfast with Santa! Enjoy a delicious cooked breakfast together before the little ones meet Santa, hand over their Christmas letters and receive a special gift. Don't forget your camera – there'll be plenty of opportunities to capture those magical moments!

Santa Afternoon Tea at De Vere | 13 & 20 December 

Treat the family to a magical Festive Afternoon Tea at Wokefield Estate’s beautiful Mansion House this Christmas. Enjoy a delicious spread of seasonal treats before a special visit from Santa and either the Snow Sisters (13th) or the Grumpy Green Villain (20th).

Family-Friendly Christmas Activities in Reading

If you’re after more ways to bring the Christmas season to life, there are plenty of other festive family activities in Reading to keep little ones entertained this holiday.