CHRISTMAS
Where to visit Father Christmas this year...
The pure joy in a child’ s face when they go and visit Father Christmas in a grotto decked out with twinkling lights, snow and, of course, elves, is something that lives on in parents’ memories for life; it’ s an image that never fails to produce a smile( even throughout the teenage years!). In the past, grottos were only to be found in shops or shopping centres- the very first grotto in the world was created at Lewis ' s Bon Marche Department Store in Liverpool in 1879- but now there’ s a wealth of Santa experiences to try out across the county. Take your pick.
Drusillas Park
Drusillas Park www. drusillas. co. uk 19-20 & 26-27 Nov, 3-4, 10-11 Dec & 15-23 Dec
Enjoy the magic and enchantment of Christmas at Drusillas Park as the dazzling Winter Wonderland returns to the award-winning family attraction in East Sussex. Of course, no festivities would be complete without the star attraction and visitors will not be disappointed as Father Christmas makes a welcome return to the zoo. Visit him in his cosy Christmas Cottage on weekends from November 19th and then daily from December 15th to 23rd. For an additional charge of £ 11, children can meet Santa and receive an early Christmas gift. There will also be the opportunity to hug a husky and meet two of Santa’ s reindeer on selected dates.
Drusillas will also be lighting up their Winter Wonderland illuminations. The dazzling display incorporates an animal-themed light show synchronised to music. Young revellers can expect to see a host of magical creatures in the ice-capped kingdom, adding some extra sparkle to the festive season from Saturday November 19th until Monday January 2nd.
Bluebell Railway www. bluebell-railway. com 3-4, 10-11, 17-18 & 23-24 Dec
Combining steam trains with Father Christmas will take excitement levels to boiling point – for adults and children alike! Father Christmas must be a steam enthusiast too because you can meet him on the train. Every child he meets will receive a gift, and the adults needn’ t worry, the elves will be on hand to serve mince pies. Departing from Sheffield Park station in East Grinstead, you will travel on a five-mile trip to Horsted Keynes station, where there will be Dickensian-themed activities to enjoy. Disembark with Santa and have your photo taken with him, or why not play on the traditional fairground rides and watch the Victorian street entertainers? There will be plenty of treats on sale as well, including roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. After an hour, you’ ll climb back on board for your return trip.
The Llama Park www. llamapark. co. uk 26-27 Nov, 3-4 & 10-24 Dec
For a truly wonderful visit to Father Christmas – complete with big white beard and a proper‘ ho, ho, ho’ take a trip to Sussex’ s Llama Park. You can book in advance, or turn up on the day, and both options give you the chance to meet Santa and his reindeer, as well as receive a great gift. When your little ones have told Father Christmas exactly what they would like for Christmas, why not take a wander around the rest of the park to see the donkeys( and donkey rides) and horses; listen to Christmas carols; admire the decorations; and enjoy the traditional nativity scene. There is a restaurant on site that will be serving lovely Christmas lunches, and lots of shops to get your lastminute gift buying done.
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