Santa’s Magical Grotto, Liverpool
Once upon a time, mummy and Boo got the train to Liverpool to visit Santa’s Magical Grotto at St George’s Hall.
They don’t travel very much on trains so the journey there was very exciting despite the pouring rain and there was a lot of “choo-choo-ing” on the way.
Neither of them had been to St George’s Hall either and they made their way to the meet and greet area in the cafe before being shown around the magical grotto, the day before it opened to the public.
A magical fairy in a beautiful outfit greeted the children gathered and, not knowing what to expect, they stepped forward into the Christmassy unknown.
The festive music was all around as they stepped into a winter wonderland of fun.
Like any good fairy tail, some of the creatures were not of this world and even strange alien-type characters were dotted about the place.
They were interactive which means no two trips would be the same and you can talk to them and they respond.
Slightly worried about Boo’s reaction to some of the creatures who could be seen as scarey it some children, Boo took it in her stride and even stroked the first beast we saw.
A series of other characters were in little rooms off one main corridor and then you went down a snowy lit path complete with (still a bit scarey) yeti.
Strange zombie-type creatures lurked beneath the catacomb walkways of the building which again, may be unsuitable for some children but when you spoke to them, they weren’t mean at all and I did admire one of their tartan scarves.
Elves were also busy down there wrapping presents and making toys. They were really delightful with the children, saying “oh you’re on the good list” and asking them what they wanted for Christmas.
Boo’s favourite room had Rudolf in it, lying in a sort of igloo. Rudolf was even honoured with a kiss which mummy found very cute to watch.
Then it was on to the main event-Father Christmas.
Santa’s area really was magical with the big man on a sleigh with some of his elves. He asked Boo her name and how old she was before asking her to close her eyes for her surprise.
Boo really enjoyed the experience. She was interviewed by Radio Merseyside but I think the excitement rendered her speechless. Thankfully the photographer from the Liverpool Echo was more successful. Mummy came away feeling quite emotional really. Probably hormones but the special effects and the costumes were really a credit to the hard work the people behind the production.
Hoping for a happy ever after? Well mummy did manage to buy two pairs of boots before getting the train back so in my book, that really is a happy ending.
The Grotto opens today-November 15th and every weekend until December 13th when it is open daily until December 23rd. Tickets cost £8 per child and two adults can go free per child.
Book online at: www.ticketquarter.co.uk/online/st-georges-hall-grotto
We were kindly asked to visit Santa’s Magical Grotto for the purpose of this review but all opinions (and hormones) are my own.
That sounds bit different to the usual grotto, St Georges Hall is gorgeous Emma you should go back on an open day sometime.
Ah what a lovely review! Not sure which grotto we’re going to this year but it has to be done! x x x
This sounds a really magical experience, I like how it’s not just a typical ‘meet Santa’ experience. Thanks for linking up with #TriedTested
This looks absolutely lovely! We’re going to a special grotto next week and I have to admit I can hardly wait.
#Tried/Tested
Aww! What a lovely review! It looks like you had a wonderful time x
This looks fab, I wonder if there’s anything similar in Manchester?