There’s nothing more exciting for the kids in the run-up to Christmas than meeting Santa Claus, so why not make it something really special? We’ve picked out five of our favourite opportunities to see Father Christmas, as well as some fantastic places to stay nearby to make a real festive break of it.

Christmas at the Eden Project, Cornwall

The Eden Project is one of Cornwall’s top attractions, so perhaps it’s no wonder that Father Christmas sets up camp there every year with his elves to complete his seasonal preparations. Kids don’t just get to meet the big man himself, but also help out behind the scenes as he and his elves get things ready. They’ll enjoy an amazing experience as they see all the letters children have sent, help elves with the gifts in their workshop, and finally sit down for storytime with Santa, before getting to talk to him one-on-one.

We have a range of accommodation on offer for anyone looking for a cosy Cornish Christmas break. You can stay in the stylish Vercana lodge, which has its own hot tub and is located on Retallack Resort, where you’ll find countless ways to keep yourself busy including a swimming pool, a spa, and other on-site amenities. Alternatively, you could book into a comfortable caravan or lodge at the seafront Cornwall Beach Resort.

Crealy Christmas Spectacular, Devon

For a full day of festive fun, the Crealy Christmas Spectacular at Crealy Theme Park and Resort in Devon is not to be missed. Sit back and enjoy the incredible Christmas on Ice show, as well as Santa’s Magic Showtime, a festive-themed magic act. Kids can get hands-on decorating gingerbread in Mary Christmas’s Bakery, making magic reindeer food at Rudy’s Reindeer Food-Making Station, and creating their own tree ornaments at the Decoration Station.

They can also post their own letters to the North Pole, sing along with the carolling snowmen, and of course explore Santa’s Toy Factory, where they’ll see the elves hard at work and can even pick an amazing present to take home for themselves.

If you’re thinking of paying a visit to Crealy, we have some fantastic accommodation within easy reach. Why not spend some time in Torquay this December with a stay in these seaside apartments, which offer stunning sea views and easy access to the town centre where you can enjoy the Christmas lights and seasonal events?

Santa Specials, Isle of Wight

There’s something about steam trains that’s perfectly suited to the Victorian charm of a traditional Christmas, and the festive season sees Havenstreet Station on the Isle of Wight transformed into a truly enchanting destination. There’s music and food, a Christmas market, and live entertainment and magic shows, as well as the opportunity to wander through a beautiful winter wonderland before meeting up with Santa in his grotto.

But of course that’s not all, because there’s still a relaxing train ride to look forward to – snuggle up in a heated carriage and gaze out upon the island’s wintry landscape as a steam locomotive takes you on a 10-mile round trip.

If you’re dreaming of a Wight Christmas on this amazing isle, we have a range of accommodation that will fit the bill perfectly, with the option to book a contemporary caravan, luxurious lakehouse or roomy cottage at Isle of Wight Holiday Park. This destination is ideal for Christmas breaks and offers a range of superb on-site amenities with lots to do.

Christmas at Cheddar, Somerset

Located at Cheddar Gorge, Gough’s Cave is a stunning 500,000-year-old cave that has been used by humans for various purposes for millennia – and, during the festive season, even plays host to Santa and his elves, who’ve set up a workshop here to ensure Christmas runs smoothly. Watch jolly old St Nick cast a twinkling eye over the festive preparations as elves sort through letters, make gifts, and check that Santa’s sleigh is flightworthy, while kids get to sing cheery carols, enjoy seasonal storytelling, and of course receive a present from the man himself.

Planning on taking a trip to Cheddar Gorge to meet Santa? Why not make a real holiday of it and enjoy a relaxing escape in one of the stylish contemporary eco-lodges at this superb destination, located less than 3 miles away on the edge of the village of Draycott? These stunning holiday properties offer a spacious modern getaway and all come with their own outdoor decking area complete with hot tub.

Santa’s Magical Journey into Christmas, Norfolk

Pay a visit to Thursford in Norfolk during the Christmas season and you’ll find an enchanted festive village filled with wintry charm. Wander through a fantastical landscape filled with snowmen, polar bears, penguins and giant teddy bears, watch the elves in their whimsical workshop as they get ready for Christmas, and journey through the magical forest to Santa’s house, where gifts are waiting for the kids.

We hope we’ve given you some great ideas for really special places to stay with the kids when meeting Santa Claus at Christmas. An enchanting holiday is sure to make your festive experience one the children will remember forever.