What time is it? It’s Santa O’Clock!

For the first time since 2019, Cabot Circus will once again open the doors to a Santa’s Grotto, bringing Christmas magic back to the heart of Bristol. Launching this winter, Santa O’Clock is a brand new immersive experience that invites families into a whimsical North Pole world where Christmas itself runs on time… until one clock stops, putting the season in jeopardy.

A theatrical adventure designed especially for families, Santa O’Clock is led by cheerful elves, with families journeying through rooms filled with ticking clocks, snowy owls and festive surprises - all leading to a very important meeting with Santa. Along the way, children will take part in meaningful moments of creativity and kindness, helping to unlock the true magic of the season.

The (North Pole) expedition continues into a second enchanting space where families are welcomed by the man in red himself as well as his trusty helper, Cogsie the Elf. Surrounded by wintery sights and the towering Christmas Wishmas Clock, children are invited to take part in joyful, interactive moments - from creative crafts to a playful wishing ritual - before enjoying a personal meeting with Santa. 

During this time, they’ll receive a gift, designed to be a lasting keepsake that carries the spirit of kindness beyond the day itself. Families will also have the opportunity to capture the experience with a traditional Christmas portrait, with optional keepsake gifts such as photo baubles or snow globes - thoughtful mementoes that can become part of new family traditions for years to come.

Cabot Circus will also host dedicated Santa Paws sessions, where dogs and their owners can meet Santa, receive a festive “paw-trait” photo and take home a gift for their four-legged friend. Packages start at £35 and include a photo print, bauble, snow globe and digital download. The experience will also include quieter, SEND (special educational needs and disability) sessions, which will take place on Wednesday and Sunday mornings throughout the run, designed with reduced volume and capacity to ensure all families can enjoy the magic in a way that suits their needs.

To mark the countdown to opening, a towering three-metre Grandfather Clock installation will be unveiled in the centre of Cabot Circus. Serving as a visual beacon and booking hub, the installation will include floor vinyl trails and a QR code linking directly to tickets - helping to guide families from their Christmas shopping straight into the Grotto experience.

Laura Reynolds, Destination Director at Cabot Circus, said: “Santa O’Clock is a beautifully told story that captures the magic of Christmas - blending imagination, nostalgia and togetherness. It’s designed to help families make lasting memories and create magical moments all while enjoying a special day out at Cabot Circus in an accessible and affordable way. We’re proud to host such a heartwarming and original experience that brings the spirit of the season to life in the heart of Bristol.” 

Tickets are priced at £12 for children and £2 for accompanying adults, and are free for babes-in-arms (under 1 year olds, with an optional £6 gift add-on). Santa Paws sessions are priced at £35 for up to two adults and one dog, with photo merchandise included. Tickets are available to book from 9:00am Monday 27 October at santaoclock.seetickets.com

For more information and booking, visit www.cabotcircus.com or follow Cabot Circus on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.