Father Christmas and his Head Elf, Joey, have been ‘papped’ at Westwood Cross, enjoying a day out shopping and planning the finishing touches for the return of the centre’s much-loved Santa’s Grotto.
The festive family experience is set to return for another year from Friday 27 November, running through until Christmas Eve.
On arrival at the Grotto, guests will be greeted by one of Santa’s workshop elves, who will share fun stories about their Christmas preparations before taking people inside to meet the big man in red himself.
Children will have a meeting and photo opportunity with Santa, sharing their Christmas wish list and finding out whether they are on the naughty or nice list. Each child will receive a certificate and an age-appropriate gift to take home.
This year, Santa and his elves are also offering photo gifts for an extra touch of festive joy, which can be bought with tickets in advance or before guests exit the Grotto into the shopping centre.
Those looking to book their experience early can benefit from discounted Early Bird tickets, priced from £6.99 for children, with age-appropriate gift provided at the experience. Early Bird tickets are available until Friday 11 December, excluding weekends.
After this date, tickets are £8.50 for both children and adults, with carers going free.
Walk-ins are welcome, but advance booking is recommended.
Santa’s Grotto will be outside Primark, close to the Little Bears’ Pirate Cove play area, with opening hours as follows:
General Hours from 27th November – 11th December:
- Mon–Fri: 2pm–5pm
- Sat: 10am–5pm
- Sun: 10am–4pm
Extended Hours from 14th – 24th December:
- 14-18th December (Mon–Fri): 11am–5pm
- 19th December (Saturday): 10am – 5pm
- 20th December (Sunday): 10am–4pm
- 21–24 Dec (Mon–Thurs): 10am–5pm
Fran Donovan, Centre Director at Westwood Cross, said, “It’s official, Santa is making his return to Westwood Cross. He’s been spotted by guests and staff with his Head Elf, Joey, doing a spot of shopping and making plans, all the while making his ‘naughty’ and ‘nice’ list – and checking it twice!
“Santa’s Grotto is one of the highlights of the season for many families in Thanet. We’d encourage families to book early to avoid disappointment and take advantage of our discounted Early Bird tickets. We can’t wait to welcome everyone and help create some truly magical Christmas memories.”
Families can book their visit and find full details, including opening times and ticket options, at https://westwoodx.co.uk/
This sort of thing turns people off, it’s four months until Christmas day. We are just still in summer!