Grotto frequently asked questions
These frequently asked questions specifically relate to the Lanterns Grotto as part of Edinburgh Zoo's Giant Lanterns event.
We hope that you have a great night out with us. In order for you to make the most of your time at the event, we recommend referencing the information below before you visit.
As a wildlife conservation charity, events like Edinburgh Zoo's Giant Lanterns allow us to engage visitors with wildlife in a fun, memorable way, while supporting our ongoing conservation efforts. This immersive experience helps connect people with nature and raise awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats from coral reefs to sea birds and everything in between. Your visit helps support the zoo’s vital wildlife conservation work in Scotland and around the world.
Read our terms and conditionsWhat is the Lanterns Grotto and how is it different from the regular grotto?
During the Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns event, we’re giving families the opportunity to visit our grotto to meet Santa on select evenings in December. Greeted by our elves, you’ll have the opportunity to meet and interact with Santa, whilst receiving an early Christmas gift!
Our Lanterns Grotto is only available to visit if you have tickets to visit Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns. A Lanterns Grotto booking is required in addition to the Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns ticket. If you have purchased Lanterns Grotto tickets but do not have tickets to enter Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns, you will need to purchase these on arrival.
Where is the Lanterns Grotto?
This grotto is situated in our Budongo Trail building, which is ¾ of the way round the route (which is approximately one mile long in total). The grotto is indoors and waiting space is available, although we recommend arriving close to your Lanterns Grotto time slot.
Will I see animals?
No, as the event takes place in the evening, our animals will be tucked up in their beds. We design the event route specifically around areas where animals will be least disturbed and as such it is unlikely you will see any. This is the same for the grotto taking place within the event.
How much are tickets to Santa’s grotto and why do I need a time slot?
Tickets start from £19 and slots are 10 minutes long.
We ask you to pick an arrival timeslot when booking your tickets so we can manage capacity safely and make it an enjoyable experience for all.
Is there an early bird discount for the grotto?
No, there is not an early bird discount on grotto tickets. With many costs involved in the production of the grotto experience, we’re unable to provide a discounted rate.
I’m an RZSS member, do I get a discount?
No, we’re unfortunately unable to offer a discount to our members for the grotto. With many costs involved in the production of the grotto experience, as a charity we’re unable to absorb these to provide a discount.
Is Santa’s grotto accessible?
Yes, our Budongo Trail building has a lift and is fully accessible for wheelchairs and buggies.
What do I need to bring with me?
You will need your Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns ticket as well as your Lantern Grotto ticket.
Can I take photos?
Yes! You’re welcome to take and share as many photos as you like.
Can I change my date/time slot?
Tickets are non-refundable, non-exchangeable and non-transferable unless the event is cancelled by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS).
Your tickets are only valid for the date and time specified on your email confirmation.
If there are special circumstances, please email events@rzss.org.uk.
Can I get a refund?
No, tickets are non-refundable, non-exchangeable and non-transferable unless the event is cancelled by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS). No refunds or exchanges will be issued for event bookings should you no longer be able to attend.
If there are special circumstances, please email events@rzss.org.uk.
Can I change the gift?
Once the presents have been gifted, they cannot be exchanged either during or after the experience. A present will be given to each child that is deemed suitable for the age group.
If you have any concerns about the gift your child has been given, please alert one of our elves who are on hand to help.
