Rhyme times, toddler sessions, stay and play and everything else that genuinely works with a pre-schooler in and around Preston.
A grotto beside Meadow Lake: decorate a Christmas cookie and make a craft while you wait, then a five minute slot with Father Christmas and a toy from his workshop. Adults do not need tickets, only the children. Service dogs only, so the family spaniel stays home.
A 55 minute return steam trip from Preston Riverside along the old docks line, with Santa, Mother Christmas and the elves working the carriages. It starts in the museum building with festive activities, every child gets a plush toy steam engine, juice, a baked treat and an activity book, and adults get a mince pie.
Meet Father Christmas by the log fire at Hoghton Tower, then visit his toy workshop for a gift. Each child ticket includes one adult. A £7 lunch bag for children can be pre-booked.
A private few minutes with a Victorian Father Christmas in the candlelit parlour at Samlesbury Hall, for up to four children aged 10 and under. One adult per child goes free. Two Sundays only.
A short ride on a Santa Special steam train to Toyland to meet Father Christmas, with a present for each child and mulled wine or fruit punch and a mince pie for the adults. The short ride is the right length for under 5s. Booking is essential and opens on 1 October.
Breakfast at Kestrel Kitchen in the floating visitor village, with Santa going table to table, photos, and a gift for every child with a ticket. Unlimited tea, coffee and juice, vegan and halal options, and it is shared long tables, so you will be making friends. The gifts are for child tickets only, so a free under-2 goes home empty-handed.