News release
For Immediate Release
Thursday 1 October 2026
Families are invited to get their festive season underway with a wonderful experience at The Commandery, a place that has seen centuries of merry Christmases before.
Christmas at The Commandery is a magical day out for all the family on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December. There will be lots of fun activities on offer, seasonal music and refreshments, and even an opportunity to visit Santa’s Grotto.
Children can meet Santa – and his Head Elf – in The Commandery’s cosy Victorian Kitchen. Each family can enjoy an exclusive visit to Santa, and every child booked in will receive a present from him.
Visitors can explore The Commandery, which will be decorated for the season, following the fantastic elf-inspired family trail. The elves have left their magical little doors around the building for children to discover. Children can settle in for a jolly story from Mother Christmas too. The trail and craft activities are free to enjoy for this weekend only!
Festive refreshments – from mulled wine and mince pies to hot chocolate – will be served in the Great Hall. Little Al’s Kitchen at The Commandery will also be open, with homemade toasties and hot drinks to be enjoyed in the café.
Events Officer Helen Manning says: “We are so pleased to welcome Santa to The Commandery this Christmas. It promises to be a magical weekend, and visiting Santa’s Grotto at The Commandery is a festive, fun experience all the family will remember.”
Booking tickets is essential for Santa’s Grotto Visits as timeslots are limited. Tickets can be booked at museumsworcestershire.org.uk. General admission to The Commandery applies to all visitors and can be booked online or paid for on the day. General admission is free for anyone with a Commandery Residents’ pass, season ticket or Commandery Membership (Santa’s Grotto tickets still apply).
Families are welcome to enjoy the festivities of the weekend without visiting Santa’s Grotto.
Please see the website for full details and to book: museumsworcestershire.org.uk.
ENDS
Notes to editors
Image attached shows: Santa in his grotto at The Commandery, Worcester
Opening hours
The Commandery, Sidbury, Worcester is open: Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm, and Sundays, 10am – 3pm. Last entry one hour before closing. Closed Mondays.
For more information or further images please contact Alice Benbow, Museums Marketing Officer: alice.benbow@worcester.gov.uk