The magic of Christmas at Wildwood

Leading British conservation charity and wildlife park, Wildwood Trust, is pulling out all the stops this year to create a Christmas to remember. From the return of its legendary Santa’s grotto to truly unique gifts for those who have everything, Wildwood has got this festive season wrapped up.

Elves at the wildlife park near Herne Bay have been busily preparing for the arrival of Father Christmas, who will be swapping the North Pole for a stint in North Kent this December. The infamous Wildwood grotto is already proving popular with visitors snapping up tickets for the big event, which runs from Saturday 2 until Sunday 24 December.

Meet Father Christmas

Visitors will be transported to a magical world where they’ll be able to meet the big man himself. Those who have escaped the naughty list will then be gifted with a luxury soft toy and have their photo taken with Santa so they can cherish the moment for years to come.

Aside from the enchanting ancient woodland of Wildwood, the animals will also be getting into the Christmas spirit from bison and bear cub Boki to wolves and wildcats. Before helping Father Christmas on the big day, the resident reindeer will also be opening up their home to visitors. For the first time, reindeer experiences will be available to book. Led by one of the expert reindeer team, there will be a chance to feed the reindeer herd and find out all about the magical species, including what they eat, when they grow their antlers and how they manage to stay warm in winter.

Make a wreath

For those looking to take some Christmas magic home with them, there will be wreath making workshops: the chance to adorn your front door with your very own luxurious, handmade creation, inspired by the ancient woodland around and led by expert florists. A hot drink and mince pie will be included.

The cover of Wildwood's first illustrated calendar. In the centrre stands a red deer stag — First Wildwood Calendar Image. Photo courtesy Wildwood Trust, used with permission

Buy the calendar

Wildwood’s first ever calendar will also be available to purchase in the shop. It features the winning pictures from the community photography competition, beautifully capturing some of the park’s most beloved animals.

Adopt an animal

Those struggling to find a unique gift for a loved one this Christmas, can also explore the animal adoptions, exhilarating animals experiences, gift vouchers and anima memberships for the park.

All purchases help support Wildwood’s vital wildlife conservation efforts.

For more information and to book tickets for the grotto, visit our website here

Santa’s Grotto opening times

Saturday 2 & Sunday 3 December; Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 December; Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 December; Monday 18 – Sunday 24 December

Your visit to the Grotto will include:

Exclusive five-minute family visit with Santa
Luxury soft toy gift
Mounted photo

Things to know before you book:

Full entry to the park must be paid or valid membership shown, in addition to the cost of visiting Santa’s Grotto, if visiting the park between 10 am and 3 pm.
Santa’s grotto tickets must be purchased in advance, and no reserving of places without payment.
Santa’s grotto visitors will not have to pay entry to the park after 3pm, as the main park is closed to the public then. Visitors will be escorted to and from the grotto by staff.
Café hours may vary, refreshments may not be available at time of visit.

Wreath making workshops:

3 December
10 am-12 noon
£45 per person (adults only). Places must be booked in advance
All participants will be provided with a large freshly made wreath using moss and spruce and a selection of decorations
A hot drink and a warm mince pie to round off the session are included
Includes access to the park after the session