Illustration of Santa checking a long list at a desk with an elf while children peek around a door (Santa Paws Experience)
Other Christmas Activities

Santa Paws Experience

Dogs and their owners can celebrate the festive season with a visit to Santa and his elves featuring dog-friendly activities and a gift to take home. Depending on the store location, the session is hosted either as an immersive Grotto experience or as an in-store Meet Santa visit. Professional photography options are available to capture the occasion, and children can be added to join their pet.

All ages (dog-focused)

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Dog tickets are £12–£13.50 per pooch. Professional photography is available; pre-booking a photo package saves 20% compared with buying on the day.

Accessibility

Wheelchair access is available in all stores, with special requirements accommodated by noting them during online booking.

Pets

The event is designed for dogs. Dogs must remain under their owner’s control and should be comfortable around people and other dogs. Each dog may be accompanied by no more than two adults. Water is available.

Location

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Dog owners and families with children

Vibe

Festive and dog-friendly

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

High

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive no more than five minutes before your booked slot, because the booking time is when the experience starts and entry isn't allowed any earlier.
  • Book well in advance, because availability is limited and key dates sell out quickly, and on-the-day tickets are only possible if that day hasn't sold out.
  • Pre-book your photo package along with your dog's ticket to save 20% compared with buying printed Grotto photos on the day.
  • Before booking, make sure your dog is comfortable around people and other dogs, and keep it under your control for the whole visit.
  • If your dog has an accident, tell the Grotto team or clean it up yourself, because children may also be at the experience.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Pre-book a professional photo package to save 20% compared with buying on the day.
  • Add a child's ticket when booking so children can meet Santa with their dog and get a gift.
  • Add a donation to Dogs Trust, this year's charity partner, while booking.

Links & Contact

Run by Dobbies Garden Centres

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my children come along with the dog?

Yes. Add a child's ticket when you book and they can meet Santa alongside your dog. Tickets are only needed for the dogs and for any children who want a gift from Santa.

How many adults can come with each dog?

No more than two adults per dog, because space is limited.

What does my dog get to do?

Your dog meets Santa and his elves, joins in dog-friendly activities and takes home a gift. Preston runs the Grotto version, which is fully immersive, with interactive activities before you meet Santa.

Can we get a professional photo?

Yes. Preston is a Grotto store, so printed photo options are available. Pre-book a photo package to save 20% on the on-the-day price. You're also welcome to take your own photos.

Is there wheelchair access?

Yes, wheelchair access is available in all Dobbies stores. Note any special requirements when you book online.

Browse Christmas in Fylde

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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