Santa will be a busy man again this year so find out here where and when he’ll be making an appearance in Hampshire over the next few weeks
Meet Santa at Marwell Wildlife
Where: Marwell Wildlife, Colden Common, Near Winchester, SO21 1JH.
When: Selected days during December between 10:30am and 5:30pm.
Info: All sorts available including, letter writing room to help compose children’s letters to Santa, storytelling and entertainment all before meeting the man himself.
Website: www.marwell.org.uk.
Meet Santa at his steam train
Where: Watercress Line, Station Road, Alresford, SO24 9JG; 01962 733810.
When: Every December weekend as well as Friday December 20 and Tuesday December 24.
Info from website: A trip on the Santa Special is the perfect way to start your Christmas - no queuing in the cold as Santa visits every family in their seats. You steam on a one hour round trip through the scenic Hampshire countryside with wine and mince pies for the grown-ups and of course a special gift for every child and baby in a souvenir felt sack.
Website: www.watercressline.co.uk.
Santa’s Grotto at Festival Place
Where: Festival Place, Town Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 7LJ.
When: Everyday up until and including Christmas Eve.
Info from website: Santa and his helpers are back for another magical Christmas at Festival Place! Bring the kids along to enjoy some festive fun at our enchanting Santa’s grotto. Watch their faces light up as they experience the grotto for the first time, complete with fir trees, train ride and snow!
Website: www.festivalplace.co.uk.
Christmas at the Vyne
Where: Vyne Road, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL.
When: Every day up until and including Sunday December 22.
Info from website: Visit over the Christmas period to see us embracing festive traditions. This old family home will be brought to life with real fir trees and seasonal decorations, creating a holiday atmosphere throughout.
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.
Breakfast and Tea with Father Christmas
Where: Wildmoor Lane, Sherfield On Loddon, Basingstoke, RG27 0HL
When: Every day up until and including Tuesday December 24.
Info from website: Enjoy a delicious, freshly-prepared breakfast or tea and watch the excitement build until everyone joins in to help the elves welcome Father Christmas (with a little help from the magic of Christmas of course!). A delight for children of all ages and grown-ups too, as the little ones meet the man himself and with his help, choose their very own present from Father Christmas!
Website: www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk.
Meet Santa at Conkers
Where: Conkers Garden Centre, London Road, Old Basing, Basingstoke, RG24 7LJ; 01256 840515.
When: Every Saturday up until and including Saturday December 22.
Info from website: This year Santa Claus has very kindly offered to stay with us. He is such a busy chap and has asked if we might build him a little workshop so that he can carry on creating and wrapping up Christmas gifts in between saying hello to you all.
Website: www.conkersgc.co.uk.
