Dobbies Garden Centre in Ayr has put tickets on general sale for its 2026 Christmas programme, giving local families the chance to book festive experiences from late November through to Christmas Eve. The line-up includes Santa’s Grotto, breakfast with Santa, wreath-making workshops and a dedicated visit for dogs.
The garden centre is promoting the programme as its “Best Ever Christmas”, with activities planned for children, adults and four-legged family members. Customers are being encouraged to book early to secure their preferred date and time.
Santa’s Grotto returns to Ayr
Santa’s Grotto will open at the Ayr store on Sunday, November 22. Children will be taken through a North Pole village before meeting Santa Claus, with activities and grotto games included along the way.
Each child will receive a collectible penguin soft toy in a special bag. Families can take photographs during the experience, while professional printed photographs with Santa will also be available. Customers who book a photography package online in advance can receive a 20% discount.
The main grotto will run until Thursday, December 24. Tickets start at £15 per child.
Dobbies will also hold Quiet Grotto sessions on December 4 and December 8. These are intended to provide a calmer and more inclusive experience for children with additional needs, with tickets priced at £15 per child.
Santa Paws and breakfast dates
Dogs can take part in the celebrations through Santa Paws on selected dates throughout December. The experience allows pets to meet Santa and his elves, join dog-friendly activities and receive a special present to take home.
Families can add a child’s ticket when booking, allowing children to meet Santa alongside their pet. Professional photography will be available depending on the type of Santa experience offered at the store. Customers can also choose to donate to Dogs Trust when buying tickets.
Santa Paws tickets cost £13.50 per dog at stores offering the full grotto experience.
Breakfast with Santa will be served in the Dobbies Ayr restaurant from Saturday, November 28, until Christmas Eve. The experience includes a visit from Santa, games, festive activities and the chance for children to decorate a miniature Christmas tree. Every participating child will receive a present from Santa.
Tickets cost £16.50 per child, while adult places are available from £9.
Wreath-making workshops
Adults can make a seasonal decoration at a Festive Wreath-Making Workshop running from Friday, December 4, to Sunday, December 6. Participants will create 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 be added for £19 per person.
Bookings for all events can be made through the Dobbies events website.