Northampton’s Delapré Abbey to host special SEND-friendly Santa’s Grotto sessions this Christmas

Children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) will be able to enjoy a quieter and more relaxed visit to Father Christmas at a Northampton attraction this December.

Delapré Abbey is introducing dedicated SEND-friendly Santa's Grotto sessions, giving families the opportunity to experience some festive magic in a calmer environment.

The special sessions will take place on Sunday, December 13, between 10am and noon, with arrangements designed to make visits more comfortable for children who may find traditional grotto experiences overwhelming.

Only one family will meet Father Christmas during each 10-minute appointment, helping to reduce noise, crowds and the pressure sometimes associated with busy Christmas attractions.

The format also allows children to explore the festive surroundings at their own pace, with additional activities available before their meeting.

As well as visiting Father Christmas, families will be able to enjoy a festive hot chocolate station, meet elves working in their workshop and take part in Christmas-themed arts and crafts.

Each child will receive a special Christmas gift during their visit, while families will also have opportunities to take photographs to remember the occasion.

Organisers are encouraging visitors to arrive approximately 30 minutes before their allocated appointment to enjoy the additional activities without feeling rushed.

Tickets cost £15 per child and £5 per adult, with one carer admitted free when accompanying a paying adult.

The sessions are intended to provide an alternative for families who would prefer a more peaceful Christmas experience, while still enjoying the traditional excitement of meeting Father Christmas.

The SEND-friendly grotto forms part of a wider programme of festive activities taking place at Delapré Abbey throughout November and December.

Other attractions include regular Santa's Grotto sessions, dedicated babies-in-arms experiences and the return of Santa Paws, giving families the opportunity to bring their dogs along for festive photographs.

The programme aims to offer different ways for families to celebrate Christmas, with sessions tailored to different needs and circumstances.

The SEND-friendly sessions are limited to one family per appointment, meaning spaces are restricted during the two-hour event.

Tickets can be booked through Delapré Abbey's website, where further information about the wider Christmas programme is also available.

For details and bookings, visit delapreabbey.org/whats-on.