Dobbies Garden Centre in Ayr has unveiled its programme of Christmas events for 2026, featuring Santa’s Grotto, festive breakfasts, wreath-making workshops and a special experience for four-legged family members.
The garden centre says its “Best Ever Christmas” programme will offer seasonal activities for children, adults and dogs from late November until Christmas Eve.
Santa’s Grotto
Santa’s Grotto will return to the Ayr store from Sunday, November 22, taking children on a journey through a North Pole village before meeting Santa Claus.
Young visitors will be invited to participate in activities and grotto games before sharing their Christmas wishes with Santa. Each child will receive a collectible penguin soft toy presented in a special bag.
Families will be able to take photographs throughout the experience, with professional printed photographs with Santa also available. Customers who book a photography package online in advance can receive a 20% discount.
Santa’s Grotto will run until Thursday, December 24, with tickets starting at £15 per child.
Quiet Grotto
More relaxed Quiet Grotto sessions will be held on December 4 and 8 for children with additional needs.
These sessions are designed to provide a calmer and more inclusive experience, with tickets priced at £15 per child.
Santa Paws
Dogs will also be able to join the celebrations through Dobbies’ Santa Paws experience on selected dates throughout December.
The event will allow dogs to meet Santa and his elves, participate in dog-friendly activities and receive a special present to take home.
Families can add a child’s ticket when booking, allowing youngsters to meet Santa alongside their pet. Professional photography will also be available, depending on the type of Santa experience offered at the store.
Customers will have the option of donating to Dogs Trust when purchasing their tickets.
Santa Paws tickets are priced at £13.50 per dog at stores offering the full grotto experience.
Santa’s Breakfast
Families can enjoy breakfast with Santa in the Dobbies Ayr restaurant from Saturday, November 28, until Christmas Eve.
The experience will include a visit from Santa, games, festive activities and an opportunity for children to decorate a miniature Christmas tree.
Every participating child will also receive a special present from Santa.
Tickets cost £16.50 per child, with adult places available from £9.
Festive Wreath-Making Workshop
Adults can create their own seasonal decoration during a Festive Wreath-Making Workshop running from Friday, December 4, until Sunday, December 6.
Participants will make a Christmas wreath basket using seasonal plants, berries, ribbons and decorative finishing touches.
The £45 ticket includes a hot drink from the Dobbies restaurant. A festive afternoon tea can also be added for £19 per person.
Tickets for the Christmas programme are now on general sale, with families encouraged to book early to secure their preferred date and time.
Bookings can be made through the Dobbies events website.
Christmas Events at Dobbies Ayr
Santa’s Grotto: November 22 to December 24, from £15 per child
Quiet Grotto: December 4 and 8, £15 per child
Santa Paws: Selected dates throughout December, £13.50 per dog
Santa’s Breakfast: November 28 to December 24, £16.50 per child and from £9 per adult
Festive Wreath-Making Workshop: December 4 to 6, £45 per person