Where to Meet Santa in the Peak District This Christmas

Looking to meet Santa in the Peak District this Christmas?

To make your holiday planning a little easier, we’ve gathered a fantastic list of places where your little ones can share their Christmas wishes and experience that magical sparkle.

The Polar Express at Churnet Valley Railway

When: 8th November – 23rd December 2025

What: All aboard for an unforgettable journey! Relive the magic of The Polar Express as you take a spectacular train ride to meet Santa. This is a truly immersive experience that brings the beloved Christmas story to life.

Wheeldon Trees Tip: This one is incredibly popular, so book early to secure your golden ticket.

Matlock Farm Park

Matlock Farm Park always pulls out all the stops for Christmas, with a variety of ways to meet Santa.

Relaxed Santa Experience: 23rd & 29th November 2025

What: Designed with incredible thoughtfulness, this experience is perfect for children and adults with autism or other learning difficulties. It offers a sensitive, tailored environment to meet Santa, with sensory gifts available.

Breakfast with Santa: 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 20th & 21st December 2025

What: Start your day with a delicious breakfast in the Garden Room Café, followed by a special group welcome from Santa himself. Entry to the farm park is included, making for a full day of festive fun!

Wheeldon Trees Tip: Check out their website for even more festive events – Matlock Farm Park is a firm family favourite.

Breakfast with Santa at the World of Wedgwood

When: 29th, 30th November, 19th December 2025

What: Indulge in an incredible continental breakfast spread before your little ones visit Santa and receive a special,cherished gift.

Wheeldon Trees Tip: Tickets are almost sold out for these dates, so book now to avoid disappointment.

Santa’s Winter Hideaway at Creswell Crags

When: 29th November, 6th, 13th and 20th December 2025

What: A truly unique experience! Journey into Creswell Crags’ largest cave to meet Santa in his amazing Ice Age hideaway. You’ll hear festive tales, receive gifts, and create incredible memories.

Important: Accessing the cave involves steps, uneven surfaces, and low ceilings. If you have concerns, please contact them before booking.

Breakfast with Santa at Renishaw Hall

When: 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th December 2025

What: Enjoy a traditional full English breakfast with Santa in the splendid, festive setting of Renishaw Hall.Afterwards, wrap up warm and explore their award-winning gardens transformed for winter.

Wheeldon Trees Tip: A beautiful location for a truly grand festive experience.

Santa’s Enchanted Christmas at Bluebell’s Dairy Farm

When: Selected Dates from 29th November to 24th December 2025

What: Witness the pure enchantment as Santa makes a grand entrance from a giant chimney! This is a moment of pure magic, perfect for creating cherished family memories.

Wheeldon Trees Tip: Book your spot early to ensure you don’t miss Santa’s spectacular arrival.

North Pole Adventure at National Forest Adventure Farm Park

When: 29th November – 24th December 2025 (selected dates only)

What: Step through the North Pole portal into a world of festive activities! Explore a Victorian High Street, meet an interactive talking Polar Bear under the Northern Lights, visit Father Christmas, and collect a gift from the elves’ workshop.

Crazy Golf with Santa at Bonkers Golf

When: 21st December 2025

What: A fun, quirky way to meet Santa! Enjoy breakfast and a game of crazy golf at Bonkers Illumination Golf.Santa will greet you at the first hole with presents and, hopefully, some good luck for your game!

Wheeldon Trees Tip: Get a 20% discount if booked before 1st December.

Storytime with Father Christmas at Chatsworth

When: 6th – 14th December 2025 (on selected dates)

What: Father Christmas will captivate little ears with the story of the very first Christmas. Children can then help the elves make reindeer food and receive a small gift to take home.

Wheeldon Trees Tip: Tickets must be booked in advance for this popular event at the magnificent Chatsworth House.

Father Christmas at Bolsover Castle

When: Weekends from 30th November – 22nd December 2025

What: Experience a magical start to the festive season by joining Father Christmas at the historic castle.

Important: Tickets for Father Christmas are £9.50 per child in advance. Non-members will also need to purchase a ticket for castle entry.

Santa Specials at Peak Rail

When: Selected Weekends & Weekdays between 6th – 24th December 2025

What: All aboard for a festive steam train ride through the delightful Derbyshire countryside! Santa and his Railway Helpers will be on board to meet all the good boys and girls.

Wheeldon Trees Tip: Book early to ensure your spot on this magical heritage train journey.

Santa’s Enchanted Journey at Ecclesbourne Valley Railway

When: End of November – 24th December 2025

What: Another wonderful steam train experience filled with festive cheer, magic, hot chocolate, and warmth, all while meeting Santa and his Elves.

Christmas with The Great British Car Journey

When: Breakfast with Santa on 29th November 2025

What: Enjoy a yummy breakfast of your choice, meet Santa all the way from the North Pole, and leave with a special gift.

Festive Breakfast and Meet Father Christmas at Cromford Mills

When: 29th November – 14th December 2025

What: Indulge in a yummy breakfast at Wheatcroft’s Cafe, write your own Christmas scroll, follow a festive trail,and meet Santa in his cosy workshop, complete with a welcoming present.

Santa’s Woodland Grotto at Tropical Butterfly House

When: 6th – 24th December 2025

What: A brand-new festive experience! Wander along the woodland walk to meet Santa and his helper in his enchanting Woodland Grotto, with various familiar characters making appearances on different days. It’s a wild winter wonder!

No matter which enchanting location you choose, we hope your Christmas at Wheeldon Trees Cottages is filled with joy, laughter and the unforgettable magic of meeting Santa! Don’t forget to book your preferred Santa experience in advance to avoid disappointment, as these popular events sell out quickly.

 

Christmas and New Year at Wheeldon Trees Cottages

We still have availability for Christmas and New Year at Wheeldon Trees.

Set amidst breathtaking scenery, our luxurious Derbyshire cottages offer the perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure. Specifically, whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a relaxing retreat with friends, Wheeldon Trees provides a haven of comfort and style. From your base here, you can explore the charming villages, hike scenic trails, and indulge in the beauty of the Peak District from the comfort of your own private cottage. Ultimately, with exceptional amenities and impeccable service, Wheeldon Trees Cottages guarantees an unforgettable holiday experience.

In addition to our standard offerings, are you looking for a dog-friendly Peak District cottage? We have three dog-friendly Derbyshire cottages: Ollerenshaw sleeps two people plus a dog, Critchlow sleeps three people, and Lomas sleeps four people.

Alternatively, are you looking to stay in an historic luxury Farmhouse? The 200-year-old Wheeldon Trees Farmhouseboasts history and luxury. It features three spacious double bedrooms, two sitting rooms, and a huge Farmhouse kitchen, why not treat yourself to a few days of bliss in the Peaks.

See our availability.