Christmas 2026 | 28 November – 24 December
Looking for a Christmas day out for little ones? Battersea Arts Centre is being taken over by festive fun designed especially for toddlers and pre-schoolers. Here are five reasons to visit.
1. Dear Santa, live on stage
From Rod Campbell, author of the much-loved Dear Zoo, comes Dear Santa (28 November – 24 December). Santa is determined to find the perfect present for Sarah, but it takes him and his cheeky Elf a few tries. At 55 minutes, it’s an ideal first theatre trip for ages two and up.
2. Every show is relaxed
All performances of Dear Santa are relaxed, so there’s no pressure if little ones get noisy or need to move around. After the show, children can meet Santa and every child gets a gift.
3. A festive soft play
From 1 to 24 December, a colourful Festive Soft Play for ages 0 to 5 opens in the building, with 90-minute sessions for climbing, crawling and sliding. It’s £10 for an adult and child, and Dear Santa ticket holders get £2.50 off.
4. Santa’s Grotto returns
By popular demand, Santa’s Grotto is back from 4 to 24 December. Children can share their wishes, get on the nice list and receive a gift. It’s £15 per child, and adults go free.
5. Pay what you can on opening weekend
Dear Santa is Pay What You Can on 28 and 29 November (recommended £15), then £16.50 from 1 to 17 December and £18 from 19 to 24 December. Refuel at Tom’s Cafe with hot chocolate, mince pies and Christmas cookies.
Tickets and info
Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, London SW11 5TN
Dear Santa: 28 November – 24 December, 11am, 2pm and 4.30pm
Festive Soft Play: 1 – 24 December | Santa’s Grotto: 4 – 24 December
Box office: 020 7223 2223
Nearest station: Clapham Junction