Step into a magical Christmas adventure at Chessington Garden Centre and experience an enchanting festive journey the whole family will treasure.


This year, join Chester the fox; the newest member of the Chessington Garden Centre family, on a heartwarming Christmas quest as he discovers the true magic of the season. Along the way, you'll wander through beautifully themed festive scenes, meet charming characters, uncover surprises hidden throughout the journey, and help Chester prepare for the most wonderful day of the year. Your experience culminates with a special visit to Santa's cosy grotto, where every child will enjoy a memorable meeting with Father Christmas and choose their very own gift.


Filled with festive storytelling, magical moments, and Christmas wonder around every corner, this is the perfect family experience to create lasting holiday memories.

Virtual Reality Sleigh Ride

Our magical sleigh ride will be running from Saturday 21st November through until Christmas Eve. 

This festive VR ride promises to be a magical way to get your family ready for Christmas in an exciting and magical experience. Let us take you on a journey as you glide through the magical Christmas scenes.

Once you’re on the ride and in Santa’s sleigh you will be given a freshly cleaned and fully adjustable VR head set. We understand that for younger children this might be too much, so the same content will play simultaneously on a TV situated at the front of the ride. Sit back and enjoy this immersive show as the sleigh moves, the wind blows and you experience the magic of 4D virtual reality!

Tickets are not timed but are specific to the date of booking so please ensure that you make note of the date booked. Timings will be limited - please see website for details.

The Magic of Christmas - The Tale of Chester FAQs

Can I pay on the door?

It is highly recommended that you pre-book for every member of your party in advance. Additional tickets for adults or children on day may not be able to be purchased on the day. This includes new bookings. We will only be able to accomodate you if we have space.

When do I arrive for my session?

Please arrive at least 10 minutes before your session starts. This will allow you to sign in and join the right queue before you go in.

How long is my session?

The walk through experience is estimated to last 40 - 50 minutes. Please note: this can vary depending on the speed you walk through.

Can I get a refund?

Tickets are non-refundable. However, if you wish to change a booked session, please contact us at least 48 hours before your session and we will try our best to accommodate your request.

Are food and drink allowed?

Food and drink is not permitted inside the Grotto at any time. This includes food bought inside the restaurant or the farm shop at Chessington Garden Centre

Virtual Reality Sleigh Ride FAQs

How long is the sleigh ride?

Sessions last 5 minutes.

Who is this suitable for?

This ride is suitable for children 5 and up.

How many people can go on at once?

Tickets can be booked for up to 6 people, however the ride will have a maximum of 6 people per ride. In some cases, you may share the ride with another group of 2/3 people, but never on the same bench on the ride.

What do I do if my party has more than 5 people?

If you are a family of 6 or more then please note you may be on the ride at seperate times.

Will the headset fit me?

All headsets are fully adjustable and we do have a TV at the front of the ride should you or your child be uncomfortable wearing a headset.

Does the ride itself move?

As the ride is 4D virtual reality there is a small amount of movement, this is minimal to ensure that the whole family can enjoy this. The ride gently rocks and fans blow for an even more immersive experience.

I have a ticket for The Magic of Christmas - The Tale of Chester, is this included?

This is a separate ride and not included in the The Magic of Christmas ticket. If booking on the same day please be advised that your Magic of Christmas walkthrough can take up to 1 hour, please take this into consideration when arriving for VR sleigh ride tickets.