Where to see real reindeer in Kent, including the Reindeer Centre and Wildwood
If your kids are into everything Christmas, then a trip to see one of Santa’s four-legged helpers could be a great way to put a smile on their faces.
But did you know that you can find real reindeer right here in Kent? We’ve got some of the best places in the county to visit the Christmas creatures…
Dobbies, Gillingham
The Santa’s Grotto experience at Dobbies has returned this Christmas, bigger and better than ever. This year, visitors can step into the snowy forest and meet one of Santa’s elves, who will guide them towards the grotto, passing reindeer and rabbits along the way. You will get a chance to see the real-life reindeer up close before meeting Santa himself and telling him all about your encounter with his furry friends.
When: Daily until Christmas Eve at Dobbies in Gillingham. There will also be a similar event at the Ashford store.
Hawley Garden Centre, Dartford
If you’re planning a visit to pick up your turkey, trimmings and Christmas decorations, you might as well make time to stop off at the reindeer stable while you’re there. This year, the Dartford garden centre welcomes its resident reindeer, Dancer and Dazzler, to delight shoppers in the lead up to the big day. There will also be an on-site photographer, so you and your family can snap a holiday photo with the pair before heading home with your festival haul.
When: Weekends only until Monday, December 19, after which the grotto will be open daily until Christmas Eve, at Hawley Garden Centre in Dartford.
The Reindeer Centre, near Ashford
Where better to visit Santa’s sleigh-pullers than at the home of one of the UK’s largest reindeer herds? The Reindeer Centre looks after up to 100 reindeer and, at Christmas, it’s the perfect place to get into the festive spirit as Santa often pays a visit. This year, visitors to Santa’s Grotto will be met by farmyard animals such as donkeys, ponies, goats and alpacas before being introduced to the stars of the show - Santa’s reindeer. You will then learn all about the reindeer from the handlers and even have a chance to hand-feed them pellets from the farm shop.
When: Daily until Christmas Eve at the Reindeer Centre in Bethersden, between Ashford and Tenterden.
Wildwood, Herne Bay
This wildlife park is a great place to see all sorts of animals, such as wolves, bears, otters, badgers, wildcats and, of course, reindeer. You can stroll past the enclosures and meet the animals yourself, or wait for the daily keeper Q&A where you can ask the Wildwood experts anything you’ve ever wanted to know about the Christmas deer. There will also be a festive discovery trail to follow, as well as a Santa’s Grotto, Christmas gifts and seasonal food and drink.
When: Daily until Christmas Eve at Wildwood in Herne Bay.