Weald & Downland Living Museum launches new Green Father Christmas' Elf School experience

Published 09:25 on 1 Dec 2025

The Weald & Downland Living Museum is bringing something completely new to its festive celebrations this year - Green Father Christmas Elf School.

Visiting Green Father Christmas at the Museum has long been a cherished tradition for families across West Sussex and beyond. After a short break, this much-loved experience returns with an exciting new twist designed to make the visit even more magical and memorable.

For the very first time, children aged 4 to 11 will be invited to step into the role of elves in training, discovering the special skills needed to assist Green Father Christmas.

Throughout the Museums historic buildings, children will journey through a series of enchanting activity stations, where they can enjoy festive crafts, create traditional decorations, and make toys to treasure at home. Along the way, they will collect stamps in their special Elf School lanyard, marking their progress as trainee helpers.

At the end of their adventure, children will proudly present their creations to Green Father Christmas himself. Every new graduate of Elf School will be rewarded with a certificate, a festive gift, and a delicious hot chocolate with all the trimmings - the perfect way to celebrate their achievement.

The whole experience takes around two hours and offers families the chance to enjoy a more traditional and sustainable Christmas activity, away from the hustle and bustle of the season. With the Museums 40-acre site open to explore, its the ideal setting for a festive day out filled with fresh-air, woodland walks and plenty of fun.

Childrens tickets cost £30, which includes all activities, crafts to take home, a gift from Green Father Christmas and a hot chocolate as well as access to all the Museums historic buildings and outside areas. Adult entry is £16.90 with one adult able to accompany up to three children. Adult entry is free for Museum members. 

Green Father Christmas' Elf School will run on just six dates this December 13, 14, 20, 21, 22 and 23 December making it a truly exclusive festive experience. Entry times run from 10am to 3pm, with only 12 children per session, ensuring each child enjoys a relaxed and magical experience. 

Were delighted to be launching Green Father Christmas' Elf School at the Museum this December, said Hilary Cunningham, Learning and Programmes Manager at Weald & Downland Living Museum. This wonderful, hands-on experience combines the magic of meeting Green Father Christmas with the fun of traditional craft-making, offering families a truly memorable and unique day out.

Spaces are limited and tickets are only available in advance. Book online at www.wealddown.co.uk