Top Santa's grottos to visit in the Midlands and Shropshire
The countdown to Christmas has begun, meaning that Father Christmas is busy getting gifts ready for all the boys and girls on his "nice" list. Despite this, Father Christmas always makes time in his busy schedule to visit these same children - here in the Midlands and Shropshire, he's making quite a few stops.
Telford Shopping Centre - November 17 to December 24
Follow a trail of presents to Santa's Christmas Castle Grotto near House of Fraser.
As you follow the trail you'll meet Santa's elves before sitting down with Santa himself.
You can also take home a family photograph with Santa as a memento.
Opening times vary but the grotto will be open every day from Thursday 17th November until Saturday 24th December.
Dudley Caverns - November 26 onwards
This grotto has a difference as it is underground in the Dudley Caverns.
Children are invited to travel by boat along an illuminated journey to see Santa and his elves.
There will be carols, hot drinks, mince pies and seasonal entertainment.
Visit: dudleycanaltrust.org.uk
SnowDome - November 18 to December 31
For the 12th year running, Santa will be returning to his Winter Wonderland at the SnowDome.
It is all held indoors with Christmas fun, reindeers and gifts for the children.
Visit: www.snowdome.co.uk
Dudley Zoological Gardens - Decemeber 1 to December 24
Your ticket for Dudley Zoo's grotto includes normal zoo admission, the chance to see Santa's reindeers in the courtyard and a surprise gift.
Visit: www.dudleyzoo.org.uk
Cadbury World - Dates vary greatly
Santa will be at Cadbury World to spread chocolate, gifts and Christmas cheer.
The chocolatiers will be working as hard as elves to create a Christmas chocolate masterpiece – last year they made a 3.5ft chocolate Santa.
Visit cadburyworld.co.uk/whats-on/winter for more information on dates and times.
National SEA LIFE Centre, Birmingham - Decemeber 10 to 23
Santa will be in his Antarctic Grotto surrounded by penguins and while you're there check out the underwater Christmas tree located in the 360 Ocean Tunnel.
Visit: visitsealife.com
Park Hall, Oswestry
At Park Hall Santa's grotto is for young and old. Your ticket earns you entrance to the farm, festive food and drink plus a "generous present."
New Square - November 26 to Decemeber 24
Father Christmas is coming to the New Square shopping centre and he's bringing presents.
He will be situated outside the Costa and there is an opportunity to purchase a framed picture of your visit.
It costs each child £5 to enter but part of that fee is a donation to Sandwell Hospital's Children's ward fund.
For more information, visit: http://newsquarewestbromwich.co.uk/whats-on/
Wightwick Manor - December 17 to 20
Wightwick Manor urge you to book ahead due to increasing popularity.
Once booked you will receive a time slot and tickets cost £6.50 per child which includes present and garden entry for the child. All accompanying adult who aren't members of the National Trust will need to pay a garden entry price.
House Of Fraser, Birmingham City Centre - November 30 onwards
On the fifth floor of the department store will be a grotto showing off traditional style shop fronts and a log cabin with Father Christmas and his elves gathered around.
Also joining them will be Rudolf the reindeer, frosty snowmen and festive penguins.
Sandwell Park Farm - December 3 to 24
At Sandwell Park Farm you can visit Santa in his grotto, receive a gift and write him a letter.
You will also be given the chance to meet his reindeers and other animals at the farm.
There's also an opportunity to join in with a festive treasure hunt.
To avoid disappointment customers are encouraged to book online at: http://www.sandwell.gov.uk/news/article/3952/tickets_on_sale_for_christmas_at_the_valley
