There’s something really special about writing a letter to Santa. It’s one of those simple Christmas traditions that never loses its magic, and thanks to Royal Mail’s annual “Letters to Santa” scheme, children can get a real letter back in the post.
This has been one of our favourite festive activities ever since Arlo was three. That was the first year the magic really clicked for him.
Our Letter to Santa Tradition
Every year, our Christmas season starts with a North Pole breakfast and the arrival of our elf. It’s full of sugar, excitement, and chaos, and it always ends with us sitting down to write our letters to Santa.
That first year, Arlo had the cutest Santa pen and a printable letter template. He couldn’t really write yet, so I helped him with the words while he told me exactly what to say. The experience is always memorable and has me remembering so many fun moments. Last year he wrote the letter himself, sealed it up and announced that “Santa would know what he wanted.” I had to quietly switch the envelopes on the way to the post box and try to guess which specific Lego kit he meant.
It’s become one of those cosy family rituals we look forward to every December. We wear Christmas jumpers, have the radio on, and watch festive films whenever they start to air. Sitting together and writing something by hand feels so wholesome in a world where everything else happens on a screen. The Santa letter is always first and then we start with the craft projects and card making for family and friends.
How to Send a Letter to Santa via Royal Mail
If you’d like to join in, here’s how it works. Royal Mail runs its Letter to Santa scheme every year, and all you need to do is post your child’s letter before the deadline to get a reply.
Address the envelope to:
Santa / Father Christmas
Santa’s Grotto
Reindeerland
XM4 5HQ
Before you post it:
Add a stamp to the envelope. Include your child’s full name and address inside or on the back so Santa knows where to reply. Post it before the Royal Mail deadline (usually around the first week of December).
If you need a Braille or BSL reply, Royal Mail can arrange that too by emailing santamail@royalmail.com.
Posting Our Letter to Santa
Once the letter’s ready, we head out for a little winter walk to the post box. Arlo usually insists on wearing something festive. The first year it was an elf hat and a Christmas jumper. He marched the whole way there, clutching his red envelope like it was top secret.
It’s only a short walk, but it’s one of those small, memorable moments that make December feel special.
Why We Love the Royal Mail Santa Letter
Every year, a reply arrives from Santa. We always keep them, and they’ve become such lovely little keepsakes. We don’t share them though, because no spoilers.
In a digital world where most messages come with a ping, getting a real letter on the doormat feels like a small kind of magic. As a teacher, I also love that it encourages handwriting, literacy and the joy of sending something by post.
A Simple and Free Christmas Activity for Kids
If you’re looking for a low-cost, screen-free way to get into the festive mood, this is perfect. You just need paper, pens and a stamp, and you can turn a rainy afternoon into something really memorable.
It’s a tradition that’s easy to start and so rewarding to keep up. Each letter marks a moment in time, showing how your child’s writing, wishes and imagination change from one year to the next.
Last Updated on Friday, January 30, 2026 by Lavania Oluban
