Santa Claus is coming to town for the first time since 2019. Cabot Circus will once again host Santa’s Grotto in the heart of Bristol, featuring a theatrical adventure designed especially for families, Santa O’Clock. Led by cheerful elves, journey through rooms filled with ticking clocks, snowy owls and festive surprises, leading to a very important meeting with the Big Man himself.
What is Santa O’Clock?
A brand new immersive experience, Santa O’Clock delves into a whimsical North Pole world where Christmas runs on time… until one clock stops, putting the festive season in jeopardy. Along the way, children will take part in meaningful moments of creativity and kindness, helping to unlock the true magic of Christmas.
The expedition ends in an enchanting space surrounded by wintery sights and the towering Christmas Wishmas Clock—where children can partake in interactive moments, like creative crafts and a wishing ritual—before enjoying a personal meeting with Santa and his trusty helper, Cogsie the Elf.
The Santa’s Grotto returns from Friday, November 28, until Christmas Eve, where every tick and tock brings Bristol closer to Christmas. Kids will not only receive a gift (designed to be a lasting keepsake), but families can also capture the experience with a traditional Christmas portrait in optional photo baubles or snow globes.
Laura Reynolds, Destination Director at Cabot Circus, said: “Santa O’Clock is a beautifully told story that captures the magic of Christmas – blending imagination, nostalgia and togetherness. It’s designed to help families make lasting memories and create magical moments, all while enjoying a special day out at Cabot Circus in an accessible and affordable way.”
Cabot Circus will also host dedicated Santa Paws sessions, where dogs and their owners can meet Santa, receive a festive “paw-trait” photo and take home a gift for their four-legged friend. The experience will also include quieter, SEND (special educational needs and disability) sessions on Wednesday and Sunday mornings.
How much is it?
Tickets are priced at £12 for children and £2 for accompanying adults, and are free for babes-in-arms (under 1 year olds, with an optional £6 gift add-on). Santa Paws sessions are priced at £35 for up to two adults and one dog, with photo merchandise included. Tickets are available to book here.