The SJA Christmas Elf Trail 2024

Are you ready for a Christmas adventure? Have a go at our Christmas Elf Trail around Emsworth and help raise funds for the St James' School Association.

What is it?

Starting from St James' school on Bellevue Lane, Emsworth, follow our map to find the hidden elves who want to send you a secret Christmas message! Can you collect all the letters to reveal the words? The trail ends at Our Back Garden in Westbourne (the Alpaca Cafe) where you can collect a small prize.

How Much Is It?

We'd suggest £3 per family, but please pay what you feel. No judgement here. 100% of donations will go to the St James' Association.

How do I take part?

Please make a donation on this page or if there are any problems donating online, please donate cash at Our Back Garden.

Once you've donated, you can access the Trail Pack here or in the Thank You message on the screen (scroll down to find it) and in the email from Just Giving (please check your junk).

The Trail Pack PDF gives you everything you need to complete the trail, along with some other fun activities.

You can also buy a printed Trail Pack direct from Our Back Garden during their cafe opening times (Friday-Sunday 10am-3pm).

If your child attends St James' School, you can also buy a pack from the school office.

How do I contact you?

Email us: elftrail.sja@gmail.com

We are a volunteer team, so please allow us 24 hours to respond, but we'll try be as quick as we can!

How does it work?

The elves are hidden in windows or other visible spots on peoples' property. Please stay on the public footpath to view them and collect the hidden letters. Our kind school families have agreed to host our little Christmas elves for the festive period to be viewed from afar, please do not knock on their doors or disturb them.

How long is the trail?

The trail starts at St James' School and takes you on a 1.2 mile walk, ending at Our Back Garden (The Alpaca Cafe) in Westbourne.

When can I do it?

You can follow the trail at any time from the Sunday 1st - Sunday 22nd December, but we suggest taking part when the cafe is open Friday - Sunday 10am - 3pm so you can collect your prize and stop for a hot drink with the alpacas!

Who is it suitable for?

Everyone! Children of all ages are encouraged to take part. Younger children can enjoy hunting for the elves, even if they can't read & write - grown ups that's where you come in! The route is suitable for pushchairs and wheels (just take care by the river and along narrow footpaths), and will take you around 30-45 minutes to complete.

What are you raising money for?

All money raised will go to the St James' Association (SJA), the PTA of St James' CEC Primary School in Emsworth. SJA funds are used to support and enhance learning experiences at school with equipment, resources or activities. As budget cuts take their toll on all schools, organisations like the SJA provide vital funding to schools like ours.

Any other important information?

Christmas attire is strongly encouraged when hunting for the elves.

What is the prize?

A small sweet treat is available to collect at Our Back Garden at the following opening times: Friday - Sunday 10am - 3pm. Dairy free options available. Please ask on collection.

Disclaimer: To stay safe hunting elves, please take care crossing roads and walking / wheeling along the narrow paths in Westbourne and along the river towards Our Back Garden. It also goes without saying, to make sure children taking part in the trail are accompanied by an adult at all times. Please also dress for the weather; this trail takes place outside, and the cafe at Our Back Garden has covered areas, but is predominantly outside, so wrap up warm!