Ice Skating
Reserve your overnight stay online through Pitchup.
27th November- 23rd December
This Christmas your journey begins by boat
Sail across sparkling waters to Santa’s secret island, where elves share sweet treats, tell magical tales and lead you to Santa’s cosy grotto
Duration: Approx 90 minutes
Every child will receive a gift from Santa
Personalised Invitation From Santa+£5
This experience involves a boat journey
Set sailfor festive family magic
Make Christmas feel truly memorable with a Santa experience designed for wonder, laughter and shared moments.
Families can enjoy the excitement of setting sail to meet Santa, with playful festive touches including Santa dancing and plenty of moments children will want to talk about long after the visit.
- Santa experience for magical family memories
- Festive dancing and playful seasonal entertainment
- A strong choice for children, parents and grandparents visiting together
The Experience
Climb aboard our magical vessel as you set sail across the twinkling waters of Alderford Lake in search of the hidden island where Santa and his mischievous elves are waiting. Your festive voyage will glide you through the mist and magic of Christmas, building the excitement as you near the enchanted shoreline.
1
The Boat Ride
Climb aboard our magical vessel as you set sail across the twinkling waters of Alderford Lake in search of the hidden island where Santa and his mischievous elves are waiting
2
Gooey S’mores
The elves will be ready to greet you, and what better way to start your adventure than with their all-time favourite treat, a deliciously gooey s’more, toasted to perfection.
3
Storytime
Gather round as the elves share their latest adventure on Santa’s island, and engross you in the magic of Christmas.
4
Make a Wish
You’ll then follow the Wishing Elf across her sparkling bridge, where you’ll make a very special Christmas wish, whispered only to the enchanted stream below.
5
Help the Elves
With Christmas drawing near and time running short, the elves will need your help! Join them in the bustling toy workshop to lend a hand making toys for all the good boys and girls around the world. The Elf Bar will be open, serving rich hot chocolates for the children and a well-earned festive tipple for the grown-ups.
6
Write a Letter
It’s time to think deeply about your biggest Christmas wish!
7
The Moment You’ve Been Waiting For
And at last, the moment you’ve all been waiting for… Santa Claus himself will be waiting in his cosy grotto, eager to hear your Christmas wish and share a special moment before the big night.
8
Food for Hector & Henry
Take away a special treat to sprinkle on your garden on Christmas Eve
“We went to Santa Island and it was absolutely magical”
This is a beautifully curated, wonderfully wholesome, back-to-nature event. It’s the complete opposite of a corporate Christmas attraction, no long queues, no conveyor belt visits to Father Christmas, no overpriced plastic toys, and no feeling of being rushed through. Just pure festive Christmas magic.
I’d highly recommend this magical Christmas experience. If you’re looking for something truly wholesome that gives you that warm, fuzzy festive feeling, this is the one.
Red Kite Days, 2025
FAQs
A few quick answers before you book your stay.
How much is the Santa Island Experience?
Prices range from £45 to £58 per person, depending on time of day and date.
Adults, children, and 1-2 year olds need a ticket, with under 1s free.
I can no longer make the experience, can I get a refund?
This experience is non-refundable and non-transferrable.
I have accessibility needs, can I still do this experience?
We do offer accessible experiences, with an adjusted boat to allow us to take wheelchair and mobility scooter users over to the island.
This is an outdoor experience so there is uneven terrain throughout the experience.
If you would like to book an accessible experience, please email enquiries@alderford.com
Do you offer carer tickets?
Unfortunately, we do not offer discounted or free carer tickets for the Santa Island Experience
Can dogs go over to the island?
No, unfortunately dogs are not permitted on this experience, excluding guide and assistance dogs.
Do you need to wear a buoyancy aid?
Yes, buoyancy aids must be worn on the boat journey across. These are provided for all customers by Alderford Lake.
How much earlier do I need to arrive before my booking?
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your session time. If you miss your slot, we may not be able to rebook due to limited capacity.
Complete your experience
We have plenty of magical experiences happening at Alderford Lake over the Christmas period.
Ice Bar
Book a table
