The Grotto Manchester

Santa's got himself a new address for Christmas 2026! The Grotto has moved from its previous home at Brent Cross to Manchester's Corn Exchange, bringing a longer 30-minute experience with new characters, festive challenges and a visit to Father Christmas himself.

The Grotto Manchester 2026

• Date: Friday 20 November to Thursday 24 December 2026

• Time: Daily, with timed entry slots

• Cost: Children £29.50 (including babies), adults £14.50 (half price). Carers free with supporting documentation. A small booking fee applies.

• Location: Corn Exchange Manchester, Exchange Square, Manchester, M4 3TR

• Book: Book tickets for The Grotto Manchester

• Nearest bus stop: Shudehill bus interchange, approximately two minutes' walk away

What to expect at The Grotto

This isn't just a quick hello and a photo with Santa. Families spend approximately 30 minutes travelling through a series of themed rooms, meeting elves and completing festive missions before arriving at Santa's cosy cabin.

Every child gets to meet Santa and receives a gift included in their ticket. You can take your own photos throughout the experience, while a professional photographer captures the Santa visit. Photos and keepsakes are available to purchase separately.

Quieter sessions and accessibility

The Grotto also offers special Whispering Winter sessions for children with Special Educational Needs and autistic children. These have reduced sound levels, smaller groups and a more flexible pace, with Santa and his elves adapting their approach to each child.

The experience is wheelchair accessible, and eligible carers can attend free with a letter confirming disability benefits.

Good to know before you go

The Grotto is inside the Corn Exchange's main atrium, next to Mowgli Street Food, so at least the queuing is indoors!

A few things worth knowing before your visit:

• Arrive five minutes early: Your ticket gives you a ten-minute entry window, and late entry isn't guaranteed.

• Toilets: There aren't any inside The Grotto. The nearest are outside by the ice rink, so make a toilet stop before heading in.

• Buggies: There's limited covered buggy storage outside the experience, but anything left there is at your own risk.

• Parking: Q-Park Deansgate North offers Grotto visitors 25% off pre-booked parking with code CE25MCR.

• Tickets: Every child needs a ticket, including babies. Bookings are non-refundable, although optional refund protection is available.

For more information about accessibility, parking and planning your visit, have a look at The Grotto's official website and FAQs.