Want to Be Santa in London This Christmas? Here’s How Much It Pays (and How to Apply)
Christmas in London has its own magic. From Oxford Street lights twinkling to mulled wine filling the air at winter markets, the city transforms into a festive wonderland every December. But have you ever thought about being part of that magic—not just as a visitor, but as Santa Claus himself?
Yes, it’s true. London is on the hunt for Santas, elves, and grotto managers to bring festive cheer to families across the city this winter. And the best part? It pays surprisingly well.
Here’s everything you need to know if you’re dreaming of swapping your desk job (or sofa) for Santa’s sleigh this holiday season.
The Magic of Santa Jobs in London
For many families, a visit to Santa’s grotto is as essential as decorating the tree or singing along to Michael Bublé. Kids line up wide-eyed, clutching their Christmas lists, ready to whisper their wishes to Father Christmas.
Behind that magical experience is a team of dedicated Santas and elves—people who make the fantasy feel real. And in London, with its endless shopping centres, parks, and attractions, the demand for Santas is higher than ever.
This year, companies like Great Grottos, Squires Garden Centre, Harvester, Toby Carvery, and even Chessington World of Adventures are all advertising seasonal Santa roles.
Who Can Apply to Be Santa?
You might be surprised by how simple the requirements are. You don’t need a booming natural “ho-ho-ho” voice, a snowy white beard, or a belly that shakes like jelly. The costumes are provided and tailored for you.
At Great Grottos—the UK’s leading employer of Santas—you do need to meet a couple of conditions:
Minimum age: 28
Gender: Applicants must be male (as per their costume policy)
Commitment: Willingness to stay in character, greet every family warmly, and create the illusion of the “real” Santa
Training is included, so even if you’ve never sat on a velvet chair in a grotto before, you’ll be paid to learn.
What Does the Job Involve?
As Santa, your main job is simple but meaningful: keep the Christmas magic alive. That means:
Welcoming families into the grotto
Listening to children’s Christmas wishes
Handing out small gifts
Posing for photos
Staying completely in character
It’s about more than just the red suit. Families come expecting magic, and you’re the one delivering it.
If you’d rather skip the big red coat, you can also apply as one of Santa’s elves or even as a grotto manager.
Elves’ duties include:
Greeting families at the grotto entrance
Introducing children to Santa
Taking photos
Restocking gifts
Keeping the energy playful and fun
Grotto managers are responsible for:
Opening and closing the grotto
Managing costumes and stock
Coordinating the team of Santas and elves
Ensuring every family has a smooth, magical visit
How Much Does Santa Get Paid in London?
Here’s the part everyone really wants to know: the pay is actually very good for seasonal work.
At Great Grottos, Santas earn £16 an hour—that’s more than £2 above the London Living Wage (£13.15 as of 2025). It’s flexible too, with each grotto hiring 3–4 Santas who can share shifts. That means you can take on as many or as few shifts as you’d like around your regular commitments.
Elves and grotto managers earn slightly less, but still comfortably above minimum wage. For many, it’s a fun way to earn extra cash for Christmas presents while being surrounded by festive cheer.
Where Are Santa Jobs Available in London?
Santa’s grottos are popping up all over the city, from shopping centres to theme parks. Some of the confirmed sites hiring this year include:
Great Grottos locations: Sutton, Wandsworth, Ealing, Waterloo, Romford, Wood Green
Squires Garden Centre (Twickenham)
Harvester & Toby Carvery restaurants (multiple London sites)
Chessington World of Adventures
Each one promises a slightly different setting—from cosy restaurant grottos to magical theme park meet-and-greets—but the role is the same: creating unforgettable moments.
How to Apply
If this sounds like your dream seasonal gig, applications are already open. The easiest way is to head straight to greatgrottos.co.uk where you can apply for Santa, elf, or grotto manager roles.
Other companies like Squires Garden Centre, Chessington World of Adventures, and Harvester list Santa vacancies on their official websites and major job boards.
Tip: Don’t leave it too late. These roles are hugely popular and fill quickly every year.
Why You Should Consider It
At first, being Santa might sound like a novelty. But think about it how many jobs allow you to make kids’ eyes light up while getting paid more than the London Living Wage? For a few weeks of the year, you get to step into a role that’s pure joy, free from spreadsheets or commutes.
For parents or students looking for flexible hours, it’s a great side hustle. For retirees, it can be a heartwarming way to stay active and social. And for Christmas lovers? Well, this is the dream.
Final Thoughts
London is already magical at Christmas—but imagine being the one to spread that magic. Whether you’re slipping into Santa’s red suit, donning elf ears, or managing a team of festive characters, these seasonal roles offer something unique: a chance to bring joy, laughter, and Christmas spirit to thousands of families.
So, if you’ve ever thought “I could pull off being Santa”, this winter might be your time. The city is waiting, and the sleigh bells are ringing.
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