Today, we were invited to the intu Trafford Centre to visit The Polar Expedition grotto in Barton Square. Families embark on a magical journey, guided by Eskimo Elves, to meet Santa. This year's grotto is very different to any we have visited before. It really is quite unique.
I'm not going to give any spoilers as to what adventures to expect, but prepare to encounter a host of Polar animals and a cute baby reindeer called Norbert. It is truly magical! You will meet some fun and engaging characters and can even learn some fascinating Polar facts. The experience contains some exciting technology that will thrill the whole family.
The grotto has been really well constructed with lots of attention to detail. There is so much to look at in the displays and decorations. This year, the grotto has been made in association with Playmobil and there is a giant Playmobil Santa in the entrance of the temporary building in Barton Square.
The final stage of the journey takes you to visit Santa himself. I thought it was lovely that Santa talked to all three of my children equally and gave them each a gift. He was engaging and warm. (The gifts they received are good quality.) Santa's elf took photographs that were available to purchase in a variety of photo product options.
Prices for The Polar Expedition are £7.50 for children, which includes a gift and £5.00 for accompanying adults. You can find out more and book at: intu.co.uk/traffordcentre/event-archive/santa-s-secret-workshop-grotto.
Opening Times:
Until Friday 2 December
Monday-Friday 12noon-6pm
Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm
Saturday 3 December - Friday 9 December
Monday-Friday 11am-7pm
Saturday and Sunday 9am-8pm
Saturday 10 December - Sunday 18 December
Monday-Friday 10am-9pm
Saturday 8.30am-9pm
Sunday 9am-8pm
Monday 19 December - Christmas Eve
Monday-Friday 8.30am-9pm
Christmas Eve 8.30am 4pm