LION WALK COURTYARD COLCHESTER FATHER CHRISTMAS GROTTO 2025

November 2025

Sat 22 Nov – 12pm – 8pm

Sun 23 Nov – 10am – 4pm

Mon 24 Nov – 3pm – 6pm

Tue 25 Nov – 3pm – 6pm

Wed 26 Nov – 3pm – 6pm

Thu 27 Nov – 3pm – 6pm

Fri 28 Nov – 3pm – 6pm

Sat 29 Nov – 10am – 6pm

Sun 30 Nov – 10am – 4pm

Dec 2025

Mon 1 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Tue 2 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Wed 3 Dec – 3pm – 7:30pm

Thu 4 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Fri 5 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Sat 6 Dec – 10am – 6pm

Sun 7 Dec – 10am – 4pm

Mon 8 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Tue 9 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Wed 10 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Thu 11 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Fri 12 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Sat 13 Dec – 10am – 6pm

Sun 14 Dec – 10am – 6pm

Mon 15 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Tue 16 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Wed 17 Dec – 3pm – 7:30pm

Thu 18 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Fri 19 Dec – 3pm – 6pm

Sat 20 Dec – 10am – 8pm

Sun 21 Dec – 10am – 5pm

Mon 22 Dec – 9:30am – 8pm

Tue 23 Dec – 9:30am – 8pm

Wed 24 Dec – 9:30am – 6pm

BOOKING

How much are tickets? £12.50 per child, plus a small booking fee. Each group booking may be accompanied by up to two adults free of charge.

Where do I book? Click the link: Ticketebo: www.ticketebo.co.uk/lion-walk-shopping-centre

What’s included? Your ticket includes a magical grotto visit with Father Christmas and his Elf, a keepsake photo taken on your own device (or we can take and email for free if you prefer) by one of the Elves, and a premium quality gift for every child to take home.

Are there discounts? New additions to the family are free of charge with siblings (under 12 months). Multiple ticket purchases made in one transaction automatically attracts a reduced booking fee. We also recommend visiting during quieter, off-peak periods, for the most relaxed experience.

Is payment online only? Online booking is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. A limited number of same-day tickets may be available from the kiosk, subject to availability.

WHEN TO VISIT

When is it quieter? The grotto is usually quieter from opening until lunchtime and after school (3pm–6pm). Weekends and the peak holidays days before Christmas tend to be our busiest times.

How long does the experience take? Visit lengths vary to ensure a smooth flow for everyone. At peak times, visits may be slightly shorter, while off-peak sessions are more relaxed.

When should we arrive? Please arrive no earlier than five minutes before your booked time slot.

Are walk-ins allowed? Yes, walk-ins are welcome if availability allows, but pre-booking is strongly advised to avpid dssapointment.

LOCATION & PARKING

Where is the grotto located? Lion Walk Santa’s Grotto is in the Lion Walk Courtyard, right in the heart of Colchester city centre beside Boots and River Island.

Is there parking nearby? Yes. The nearest car parks are Vineyard Street, Priory Street, and Britannia. We encourage visitors to use sustainable transport whenever possible.

Is parking free or paid? Public parking is available off centre, including park and ride - Parking rates vary. Please check the Colchester City Council, or private companies, website for

current details.

ACCESSIBILITY & FACILITIES

Is the grotto wheelchair accessible? Yes. The grotto and courtyard are fully step-free. We aim to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit for all guests.

Are assistance dogs welcome? Yes. Assistance dogs are warmly welcomed at Lion Walk.

Is there an accessible or priority queue? Yes. Priority access is available for guests who need additional support. Please email ahead or speak to an Elf on arrival.

Are there toilets and baby-changing facilities nearby? Yes. Facilities are located within the immediate area of Lion Walk Courtyard and the grotto.

Can we bring prams or buggies? Yes. Prams and pushchairs are welcome.

Who do I contact for accessibility support? Please email info@lionwalkcourtyard.com and our team will be happy to help.

ON THE DAY

What do we need to bring? Please bring your booking confirmation (on your phone or printed). Walk-in visitors should show their proof of ticket receipt to Santa’s Elves on arrival.

Can we take our own free of charge photos? Yes. Your free family keepsake photos can be taken by our Elf using your own phone, camera, or device. Alternatively we will take one for you and email it to you free of charge.

Any extra hidden charges? No. We do not charge any extra costs, including for photos or accompanying adults.

Is an Elf present? Yes. Every visit is guided by one of Father Christmas’ friendly Elves depending on availabilty, or dedicated support staff.

Does every child receive a gift? Yes. Each child receives a quality, luxury gift to treasure.

Are there any safety or allergy notes? Please check packaging for small parts or allergy information, toys may contain small parts not suitable for young children. Children under 36 months, or vulnerable individuals, must be supervised at all times with small toys/parts and any packagin/ plastic bags.

POLICIES 

Are tickets refundable? Tickets are generally non-refundable. However, if you email us promptly, we’ll always do our best to help with reasonable changes where possible.

Can I reschedule my visit? Rescheduling isn’t guaranteed but will be accommodated wherever possible if availability allows.

What if I’m late? No worries. You’ll still get to meet Father Christmas, although queue timings may need to be slightly extended / adjusted.

Does my ticket guarantee immediate entry? Your ticket gives you access to the pre-booked priority queue. Walk-ins may need to wait longer.

Can more than two adults attend per group booking? The fixed policy is two adults per group session. If you need to bring an additional carer or family member, please email us in advance.

GROUP VISITS

Do I need one booking per child? Please book one ticket per child. Booking multiple children in one transaction saves on booking fees and ensures your family visits together, there is no charge for babies in arms (under six months) with siblings.

Can siblings visit together? Yes. Families are always recommended to visit as a group for a treasured shared experience and savings.

EXTRAS

Can we buy extra photos? All photos are free of charge We don’t sell photo packages. Your Elf will take your photo on your own device at no extra cost (or email one free of charge).

Do you offer SEN or quiet sessions? Yes. Special sessions can be arranged for children with additional needs, and quiet times. Please email ahead to discuss your requirements.

Are there extended hours or special dates? Yes. Extended hours and additional sessions run closer to Christmas. Book early to avoid dissappointment.

VISITOR SAFETY NOTICE

Adults and carers must supervise children under the age of 18 at all times.

Decorations and props may contain small parts; please do not touch and supervise children at all times to keep young children safe.

Photography may take place during visits. Entry implies consent for personal and event images used in Lion Walk Shopping Centre Courtyard or partner promotions.

Security and support staff are available throughout Lion Walk for your safety.

Lion Walk Shopping Centre Courtyard and its partners accept no liability for loss, damage, or injury to any persons visiting the site - all patrons visit at their own risk.

CONTACT - ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS:

Email: info@lionwalkcourtyard.com

Phone: 01206 564957