Santa’s Grotto adds Christmas magic to Forest Holme’s new Merry Mile
Families are invited to pull on their Christmas jumpers, dig out their festive fancy dress and join Forest Holme Hospice for a brand-new Christmas event in Poole this December.
The Forest Holme Merry Mile is coming to Branksome on Sunday 6 December 2026, offering families the chance to enjoy a fun and festive morning by the coast while raising money to support local hospice care.
Starting at 11am from Branksome Dene Room, the one-mile route heads down to Branksome Chine Beach before returning to the Dene Room.
Whether you fancy running, walking, dancing, skipping or simply taking a leisurely festive stroll, everyone is welcome – and Christmas fancy dress is very much encouraged!
Adding to the festive atmosphere, Hot Radio will be joining the event with plenty of Christmas tunes to keep participants in the mood as they make their way along the seafront.
Santa is coming to Branksome!
There’s an extra treat waiting at the finish line for younger participants.
Children aged 15 and under taking part in the Merry Mile can visit Santa’s Grotto, where the Branksome Dene Room will be transformed into a magical Christmas setting for a special festive visit.
The grotto is being created with support from Haskins Garden Centre, helping Forest Holme add a little extra Christmas sparkle to its first-ever Merry Mile.
Forest Holme Hospice Charity says the event has been created as something the whole family can enjoy.
“We wanted to create an event that families can enjoy together and that really captures the fun of Christmas.
“The Merry Mile is for everyone. You can run, walk, dress up, bring the family, even the dog, and simply enjoy the occasion. We’re especially excited about Santa’s Grotto and creating a magical experience for children at the finish.
“We hope families will join us for some festive fun while helping to raise funds for Forest Holme Hospice.”
What’s included?
Merry Mile entry includes a festive hat, hot drink and mince pie, with family ticket options and Santa’s Grotto places also available.
There’s no minimum fundraising target, although participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship if they would like to do a little more to support Forest Holme.
The event runs from 11am to 2pm, giving families plenty of time to enjoy the festivities before heading home with some Christmas cheer.
Supporting local hospice care
Forest Holme Hospice provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care and support to more than 1,500 people each year across Poole, Wimborne and the Isle of Purbeck.
The hospice supports people living with advanced cancer and other life-limiting illnesses, as well as providing emotional and practical support for their families.
Forest Holme is part of University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, but its charity needs to raise around £1 million every year to help provide the highest level of care for local patients and their families.
Money raised through events such as the Merry Mile helps the charity continue providing specialist care and support when local people need it most.
For entry details and more information, visit forestholmehospice.org.uk/events.
