About the Event
Christmas magic is coming back to Haven House! This year, the much-loved Haven House Santa’s Grotto moves to a brand-new home at Redbridge Garden Centre on Roding Lane North in Woodford Green, running from 5 to 23 December 2026. Following the closure of Northfields Nursery, the team is delighted to continue this treasured Christmas tradition – simply with a new setting and a new look.
The new home gives Haven House the chance to create something fresh while keeping the heart of the grotto experience exactly where it belongs: bringing families together and creating magical Christmas memories. Every visit supports Haven House Children’s Hospice, helping local children with life-limiting conditions and their families make the most of every moment.
What to Expect
Step into a world of festive wonder as you make your way through the beautifully decorated grotto at Redbridge Garden Centre. Children can meet Santa himself, share their Christmas wishes and receive a special gift to take home, while grown-ups enjoy the warm, magical atmosphere and plenty of photo opportunities.
Slots run throughout the day between 09:30 and 16:00, so you can plan your visit around a browse of the garden centre and a festive treat. The grotto is designed for families with children of all ages and is fully accessible. Haven House staff and volunteers will be on hand to make sure every family leaves with a smile – and a little more Christmas spirit than they arrived with.
Getting There
The grotto is at Redbridge Garden Centre, Roding Lane North, Woodford Green, IG8 8LZ. It is easy to reach by car with on-site parking, and there are local bus connections along Roding Lane North and nearby Woodford High Road. If you are coming from further afield, Woodford station on the Central line is the closest underground stop, with a short onward journey. Allow plenty of time to park and find the grotto entrance, especially at weekends.
Tickets & Pricing
Grotto visits must be booked in advance and sell out quickly in previous years, so book early via the official Haven House booking page. Ticket prices are listed on the booking page and include a visit with Santa plus a gift for each child. As a charity event, the money raised helps Haven House Children’s Hospice care for local children and their families throughout the year.
More Events
Discover more festive and family days out in our round-up of events in Essex, or browse everything on What’s Happening. Haven House also hosts the Christmas Trail and Halloween Trail in its Woodford Green grounds – both wonderful ways to support the hospice while making memories together.
