The Best Santa's Grottos in Cardiff this Christmas

There’s no time of year more exciting for kids than Christmas. From writing wish lists to sneaking mouthfuls of advent calendar chocolate, every part of the lead-up to Christmas is a guaranteed highlight for any of the littluns' year. 

If you were to ask what kids' favourite part of Christmas is, you’d be surprised to find an answer that doesn’t involve receiving a gift. That’s where Santa’s Grotto comes in, the best place to make sure the big man knows what’s on your list.

If you’re spending Christmas time in the Welsh capital and you’re wondering where to see Santa, we’ve got the scoop on some of the best Santa’s Grottos dotted around the city. In the meantime, why not check out some other events in Cardiff for this holiday season? Christmas, Boxing Day, you name it, we’ve got it covered. 

 

The Royal Mint Christmas Experience

Photo: Tim Mossholder / Unsplash.com

When: Saturday 25th December 2023 - Sunday 24th December 2023

Where: The Royal Mint Experience, Llantrisant, Cardiff

With the iconic Royal Mint Museum caked in snow, there's no better place in Wales for Santa's Grotto. If meeting Santa wasn't enough of a draw, you can commemorate your stay by striking your very own coin before giving the big man your Christmas list. 

 

---

 

Believe at St David's

Photo: _drz_ / Unsplash.com

When: Friday 1st December 2023 - Saturday 24th December 2023

Where: Bridge Street, St David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff 

St David's will receive a magical new lick of paint this year, as all throughout December a brand-new story and theme will captivate Cardiff. Santa awaits alongside a slew of events that are tons of fun for the whole family. Enter Santa's dazzling post room and join his elves as they sort through his letters to immerse you in the Christmas spirit. 

 

---

 

Santa's Traditional Grotto, Queen Street

Photo: Daniel Reche / Pexels.com

When: Thursday 16th November 2023 - Tuesday 2nd January 2024

Where: Queen Street, Cardiff 

Escape the Christmas time chaos and pop in to see Santa at his classic Queen Street grotto. Bring the kids along to a nostalgic wooden chalet, where Santa and his elves reside. Don't miss your chance to visit, as the grotto is open 7 days a week and if that's not enough a ticket comes along with a gift from the main man himself!

 

---

 

Santa at the Stadium

Photo: Srikanta H. U / Unsplash.com

When: Thursday 16th November 2023 - Tuesday 2nd January 2024

Where: Principality Stadium, Westgate St, Cardiff 

As well as being the proud home of Welsh rugby, Principality Stadium is also the spot of a wondrous winter paradise until the new year. Visit the former home of sports icons as Santa and his elves make the iconic venue a temporary festive abode. 

 

---

  

Santa at Cardiff Castle

Photo: Alicia Slough / Unsplash.com

When: Thursday 16th November 2023 - Tuesday 2nd January 2024

Where: Cardiff Castle, Castle Street, Cardiff

Where else better to catch the magic of Christmas than at Cardiff Castle? Tucked away in the Black Tower, join Santa in his grotto by the fire as he presents gifts, all while washing it down with some mulled wine. A costumed tour of the castle's apartments, a lantern trail and a treasure hunt are also included in a ticket, and to top it all off you can get 10% off in the castle's Christmas shop. 

 

---

 

Santa's Grotto, IKEA

Photo: Mike Arney / Unsplash.com

When: Saturday 25th November 2023 - Saturday 23rd December 2023

Where: IKEA, Ferry Road, Cardiff

Yes, you heard that right. Along with the best meatballs and flat-pack furniture around, Cardiff's IKEA is also hosting a delightful Santa's Grotto. You can grab a gift to take home with you and snatch a festive pic with Santa and his elves, and special quiet sessions hosted by Saint Nick himself ensures all children have a relaxing visit. 

 

---

 

For more things to do in Cardiff over the Christmas holiday, check out our Christmas events in Cardiff page here. 

 

---

---

 

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.