FAMILIES turned out in full force for the opening weekend of The Rock Shopping Centre’s FREE Santa’s Grotto.

The shopping and leisure destination’s Santa’s Grotto officially opened on Saturday 30th November and is open on various days on the run up to Christmas.

More than 200 children visited the grotto over the opening weekend.

Visitors queued in anticipation of the grotto opening and were able to step into a cozy woodland theme wonderland for their visit to Santa.

It’s the first time The Rock has hosted a grotto since the pandemic.

The focal piece of the grotto is a magical archway of lights, garlands, baubles and branches, creating a standout backdrop for the photo with Santa. Admission is free and includes a chocolate lolly.

Arnold Wilcox-Wood, Centre Director of The Rock, said: “We’ve had an excellent opening weekend at our free Santa’s Grotto, and we’re thrilled that so many families were able to join us. The grotto is open on various dates between now and Christmas Eve and is completely FREE to enter. It is important to my team and I that we offer this experience free of charge, so that all children can enjoy a festive visit to see Santa.”

The grotto is in St John’s Square, alongside the centre’s Christmas food fair. The famous Rock Express land train will also return this Christmas. Visitors can enjoy a festive journey in the town from Saturday 14th December.

Santa’s Grotto is fully accessible and is manned by two elves. Santa will take a break daily at 1pm for 30 mins. There will be no admission to the grotto during this time.

For full opening hours and further information visit The Rock’s website or keep an eye on their social media pages.