The fun Essex zoo where you can meet real reindeer and ride Santa's sleigh perfect for Christmas

Visiting real reindeer is a must-do activity heading into the Christmas season. One Essex zoo has plenty of reindeer to meet - but you can also see Santa, and join in with festive farm talks, too!

Upon arriving at Maldon Promenade Zoo, friendly Elves will greet you and point you in the right direction to start your magical Christmas journey. The zoo will be lit from start to finish with plenty of festive lights.

Your mission will be to find Rudolph along the way whilst meeting some of his festive friends! Most exciting, perhaps, is the opportunity to meet some real reindeer and a ride on a static sleigh.

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When you visit Santa in his grotto, you can also choose a gift from the Elf workshop, all included in the price of the ticket. There will also be plenty of eateries to grab food during your Christmas adventure at the zoo.

While you're on your magical journey, you will get to enjoy some lovely festive music which will be playing all day! It is not just the Christmas-themed animals you have the chance to meet, either - there are plenty of farm animals and reptiles waiting to say hello.

A ticket to Christmas at Maldon Promenade Zoo costs £21.95 per child (with under 2s going free), and £10.95 for each spectating adult. This includes entry to the zoo and plenty of animal meet and greets, in addition to the chance to visit Santa in his grotto.

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