Q1: What is the age recommendation?
The show is perfect for anyone aged 1-101, but with a focus on the little ones. There’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Please be advised that children must be always accompanied by an adult, and any children in your group are the sole responsibility of your adult group members.

Q2: How long does the show last?
Each session lasts 50 minutes without intervals. The event consists of a 40-minute performance, followed by a meet and greet with the Elves and Mrs. Claus, where children can collect their very own ‘Nice List’ certificate.

Q3: How do we get there?
The show takes place on the ground floor in Admiral’s House – a historic building at the Old Royal Naval College (ORNJC). It is just across from the Painted Hall, right by the riverside.

We will be running a one-way system, with a separate entrance and exit.

Q4: Do you offer ticket discounts or special packages?
We offer reduced ticket prices on Universal Credit tickets.

We also offer the following package deals, to help you make the most out of your visit:
· Family of Four - Father Christmas tickets, plus The Doorstep Elves and The Magic Bear tickets, plus entry to the PH at £84.70
· Family of Three - Father Christmas tickets, plus The Doorstep Elves and The Magic Bear tickets, plus entry to the PH at £67
· Discounted entry for adults to visit the Painted Hall, including access to Connection and Identity installation at £13.50. Entry to the Painted Hall is free for children aged 16 and under.

Please note that standard event tickets to The Elves and the Magic Bear do not include access to the Painted Hall and so general admission tickets would need to be purchased separately.

Q5: How do I receive my tickets?
Once purchased, you will receive an e-mail confirmation and tickets via e-mail. Please be ready to show this confirmation upon arrival, either on your phone or as a printed copy.

Q6: Do I need to book tickets in advance?
We recommend purchasing tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. However, depending on the availability of each session, some tickets may be available to purchase on the day.

Q7: Do babes in arm require a ticket?
Children under one year old go free but require a booked ticket. The Children’s ticket is for 1–16-year-olds.

Q8: What time shall we arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes before the show to check in.

Q10: What if I am running late?
As per our terms and conditions, tickets are non-refundable and we cannot guarantee to transfer you to another session should you miss your booked timeslot.

Q11: What are the interactive elements in the show?
Mrs. Claus and the elves will talk and sing with the audience. The show also features a costume character bear which some younger audience members may find overwhelming. The bear does not approach anyone in the audience and is very friendly. At the end of the performance, children will have the opportunity to take photos with the Elves and Mrs. Claus on personal devices and will receive a ‘nice list’ certificate.

Q12: Can we take photographs?
Photographs must be taken on your own device, and you may only take photos of children in your own group.

Filming the content of the entire session is strictly forbidden. ORNC owns the copyright for any content created within its organisation.

Q13: What should we wear?
We recommend wearing comfortable clothes suitable for this time of year. The event venue is a historic building which can get quite cool; however, it is likely to get very busy over the festive period so we suggest wearing layers so you can adjust to how you are feeling on the day.

Q14: Is there a cloakroom?
Unfortunately, due to limited space, we are unable to provide a cloakroom for this event. We kindly ask guests to plan accordingly and avoid bringing large bags or bulky items.

Q15: Will there be a buggy park?
Yes, there will be an indoor buggy park area available, but spaces are limited. Due to capacity and fire safety, we ask that you ideally park your buggy before the event, rather than bringing it into the performance space. We recommend, if possible, coming early or without a buggy to avoid disappointment.

Q16: Are there any relaxed performances?
There are three special relaxed performances where the house lights will remain on, the sound levels will be quieter, and the elves will be alert to keeping their distance a little more to avoid any concerns with personal space.

Q17: Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
The venue is accessible by wheelchair. Please select the Wheelchair Access ticket when booking. Due to the historical nature of the building, the Admiral's House is limited to one wheelchair access guest per performance and unfortunately electric wheelchairs, mobility scooters etc. cannot be admitted.

Q18: Do I need to book a ticket for a personal assistant?
Disabled visitors are welcome to bring a personal assistant at no extra charge. Please select the Personal Assistant ticket when booking. Proof of eligibility may be required for this ticket. Please email boxoffice@ornc.org is you have any questions about accessibility or if you would like to discuss any specific requirements.

Q19: Are there toilets and baby changing facilities at the venue?
There are minimal toilet facilities in Admiral’s House. We recommend visiting the facilities in the neighboring King William building (where the Painted Hall is), just across from Admiral’s House (approximately a 3-minute walk) before checking in.

You will also find our Undercroft Café there, which is open 10am-5pm and offers a wide range of freshly prepared sandwiches, pastries and refreshments.

Q20: Can we bring Food and Drink into the space?
Food and drinks from outside are allowed. All drinks must be bottled or have a lid on. Due to the historic significance of the building any spillage can deteriorate the surfaces with no possibility of fully restoring them.

Q21: What else can we do while we are at the ORNC?
As well as visiting the Doorstep Elves, why not visit the Painted Hall to see Peter Walker’s installations of Connection and Identity. See here for full details: What’s on at Old Royal Naval College.

Q22: Is there parking on site?
There is no car park access on ORNC site. There is limited parking in Greenwich, particularly at weekends, and we encourage you to use public transport if possible. Paid car parking is available in Park Row (SE10 9NL) and Cutty Sark Gardens (SE10 9HT).

Q23: What is your refund policy?
Our refund policy states that we do not offer refunds or allow changes to session dates if you miss your slot. Our sessions tend to sell out quickly and are often at maximum capacity, so we are unable to accommodate such requests. We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to double-check your availability before booking to ensure you can attend your chosen session.

Q24: What is the Old Royal Naval College?
The Old Royal Naval College is a historic site in Greenwich, London. It is renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful grounds, making it an ideal location for various cultural and recreational activities, including family events.

For more information and the latest news visit our website, ornc.org.