In the run up to Christmas, despite being so busy, Father Christmas still manages to find the time to turn up at numerous department stores, as well as the odd
zoo, in order to say hello to some of the millions of children whose homes he'll be visiting on Christmas Eve.
Now, if you or your offspring would like to meet Santa in a place other than a shop or a zoo, then how about making your way to the glorious Kew Gardens in Richmond?
From the 10th of December Kew Gardens puts on a number of
special winter-based events for visitors, including the opportunity to meet Father Christmas.
This year you'll find
Santa's Grotto at the north end of the Princess of Wales Conservatory. The rotund deliverer-of-presents will be in attendance each day up to and including the 23rd of December, from midday to 3pm only (he's got shops and zoos to visit too, you know).
No advance booking is necessary and the grotto is free to enter - however, adults do need to pay to enter the gardens first (adults £13.90, concessions £11.90, children under 17 free).
Once you've said hi to Santa, go and enjoy some of the other things happening across Kew Gardens' 300 acres.
For example, from the 10th of December to the 2nd of January parents and kids will be able to enjoy a ride on the carousel (adults £2, children £2), while fans of face painting will also be catered for (£4 per face, £7 for two).
On the 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th of December you'll be able to grab some festive mince pies and mulled wine inside the Princes of Wales Conservatory courtesy of the Rotary Club.
Take the opportunity to explore the gardens in all their winter glory - free guided tours take place daily throughout December and January, starting at noon. Alternatively pick up a leaflet and enjoy a self-guided walk instead.
If you're on the hunt for some Christmas bargains, be sure to visit Kew Gardens' Victoria Plaza, offering a generous 20 percent discount on full price items over £30 (4.15pm to 8.30pm). Click
here to find out more.
Best of all, if you get too cold while you're there, just head straight for the cosy
Palm House conservatory - there's a sweaty tropical rainforest inside!
