Christmas FAQ

 

Christmas FAQ 

 

Q. What is the procedure upon arrival?
When you arrive please check in at Admissions giving your name and time of booking.  You will proceed in the company of our Elves to Santa Registration in the Corn Barn. Once you have registered your children can partake in the games and you enjoy some refreshments while you wait to be called.

Q. Do I have to arrive exactly at the set appointment time?
No, you can arrive before the appointed time but we kindly request that you register with 'Santa registration' upon arrival. If your appointment time is after 6pm we recommend you arrive a minimum of 1 hour earlier to avail of all the entertainment and experiences on offer. Please note the Christmas experience closes sharply at 9.00pm.
 
Q. If my appointed time is for example 5.00p.m. do I get to visit Santa at exactly 5.00p.m?
No – you have been given an hourly slot. You will see Santa between 5.00p.m. and 6.00p.m. You will be advised of your time upon arrival at Santa Registration and an Elf will guide you to Santa’s Grotto.
 
Q. What is included in the Santa experience?
 

  • Personal visit with Santa Claus and gift.
  • Access to Bunratty Folk Park Trail of Lights Experience
  • Ms Claus in the Golden Vale Farmhouse preparing treats and making sure Santa’s suit is washed and ironed for his big trip.
  • Polar Express Train Rides
  • Tunnel of Lights
  • Puppet Shows
  • Magic Shows
  • Traditional Christmas Tales with our resident Seanchaí
  • Meet Christmas Characters on the Village Street
  • Festive Fairy Trail
  • Toddler Play Area
  • Souvenir photo of Santa Visit*
  • Festive themed shops
  • *Optional for additional fee

 
Q: What is not included in my ticket price?
Souvenir Photo is not included in your ticket price. A souvenir photo with Santa Claus can be purchased for an additional fee. This is optional and  payable on the day.
 

Q. Can I bring a buggy into the grotto?
Yes

Q. Is there wheelchair access to Christmas experience?
Yes - however the paths in Bunratty Folk Park are uneven in places and there are some cobble stones in the perimeter of the Village Street. During inclement weather certain paths will be muddy. Please note the Castle is not wheelchair accessible.
 
Q. What are the opening hours for the Castle ?
Bunratty Castle opens at 9.00am and closes promptly daily at 4.00p.m.
At weekends the castle will be open to the public from 12.30pm to 4.00pm.

Q. Are there dining facilities on site?
Yes there are a number of dining options including O'Regan’s Cafe, Bunratty Tea Rooms Mac's Pub and along with an array of other food vendors across the site.
 
Q. Is it advisable to make dining reservations in advance?
No reservations are not required as there is a constant turnover of tables. We regret tables cannot be held at this busy time.
 
Q: What is the cancellation policy? 
Bookings are non-refundable. However, should you need to cancel for unexpected illness or emergencies, please contact the reservation office at bunratty@claretourismdev.ie or 061 711222

Q: Will the Gift Store at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park be open during this period? 
Yes. The Bunratty Castle Craft and Design Store and other outlets on the Village Street will be open throughout this period stocking a wide range of Christmas gifts, homewares, cosy knits, stocking fillers and much more. 

Q: I am a member. Can I visit the Castle and Folk Park without a booking during the Christmas period (December 1st to 23rd)?
Yes. Please present your valid membership card and photo ID at admissions on arrival.
Please note membership does not include a personal visit to Santa’s grotto.
This must be booked separately. No discount applies for membership holders on Santa Visits.
 
 
Q: Can I visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park during this period and not visit Santa?
Yes Normal Admission rates apply. Visit https://www.bunrattycastle.ie/book-tickets/ to purchase tickets.
 
 

Breakfast with Santa FAQ

 


Q. Do I have to arrive exactly at the set appointment time? 
Please arrive approx 15 minutes before your appointment time. This will provide adequate time to check you in and show you to your seat.

Q. May I access Breakfast with Santa without prior appointment?
No, you must have a confirmed reservation.

Q. May I add more people to my party upon arrival without advance notice?
No, unfortunately we cannot accept additional guests on the day as this event sells out in advance.

Q: Is Breakfast with Santa suitable for babies and young children?
No. Due to the constraints of the castle building, seating configuration and for health and safety reasons, we cannot accept bookings for children aged under 3 years for this event. 

Q. Where is Breakfast with Santa located?
Breakfast with Santa takes place in Bunratty Castle.

Q. Where can I view the menu?
To view menu please CLICK HERE 

Q. Are gluten free menu options available?
 You can list dietary requirements in the booking form online.

Q. Are Vegan options available?
 You can list dietary requirements in the booking form online.

Q: Can I explore the Christmas at Bunratty Folk Park after Breakfast with Santa is finished?
Yes. Your ticket is valid to explore the Christmas at Bunratty Folk Park ​ once you have exited Breakfast With Santa.

Q: What is the cancellation policy? 
Bookings are non-refundable.