Meet Father Christmas

Celebrate a seasonal tradition this Christmastide with a classic meet and greet with Father Christmas at his cosy home in Christchurch Mansion. Children can chat with the jolly fellow, share their Christmas wish lists, and enjoy magical photo opportunities in our festive grotto. Each paying child receives a gift and access to a Christmas family trail.

Simply choose the time slot that suits you best and book for the number of children in your party. Adults go free (maximum of four per booking). When you arrive, show your ticket to a member of the team, who will guide you to Father Christmas’s fireside. Please note, there may be limited queuing.

Bookings are available on December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, and 21, with multiple time slots throughout each day. Sessions run every 20 minutes, starting from 10:00 AM to 12:40 PM, and then again from 1:30 PM to 3:50 PM.

This event will take place in the dining room on the ground floor, which is completely accessible.

We like to keep our magical grotto a surprise, but we appreciate some visitors need to know exactly what to expect for an enjoyable time on the day. The grotto will be created ahead of the event. If a member of your party has a sensory impairment and would benefit from familiarising themselves with the space before visiting, please email museums@colchester.gov.uk after booking, and we can share photographs.

Tickets cost £12 per ticket. Adults go free (maximum of four per booking).