Westwood Cross Santa's Grotto at Westwood Cross

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 right through until Christmas Eve, giving families in Thanet the chance to enjoy a special moment together.

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 stepping inside to meet the big man in red himself. Children will each enjoy 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 and enjoy.

This year, Santa and his elves are also offering photo gifts for an extra touch of festive joy, which can be purchased 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-ups are welcome, but advance booking is recommended as this memorable moment is expected to be popular this Christmas.

Santa’s Grotto will be located outside Primark, close to the Little Bears’ Pirate Cove play area, with opening hours as follows:

General Hours from 27^th November – 11^th December:

• Mon–Fri: 2pm–5pm
• Sat: 10am–5pm
• Sun: 10am–4pm

Extended Hours from 14^th – 24^th December:

• 14-18^th December (Mon–Fri): 11am–5pm
• 19^th December (Saturday): 10am – 5pm
• 20^th 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.”

*Tickets for Santa’s Grotto are priced at:

• Early Bird Child Ticket (includes gift): £6.99. Early Bird pricing is available until 11 December and excludes weekends.
• Standard Child Ticket (includes gift): £8.50 for children aged 0-16 years
• Accompanying Adult: Free with a fully paid child ticket (gift not included)
• Adult Ticket (includes gift): £8.50 for adults visiting without a child
• Carers: Free