A little dose of early Christmas magic: Our verdict on Meadowhall's festive attraction

AWAY from the noise and crush of the shops, an early helping of Christmas magic is being served — with a sizeable side order of glitter.

Meadowhall’s take on the traditional Santa’s grotto experience involves interactive theatre, colourful characters and a short crafts workshop, before a face-to-face meeting with the big bearded guy himself.

The Wish Upon a Star with Santa Experience is billed as a 30-40 minute immersive theatrical experience filled with storytelling, stargazing and enchanted encounters, and that’s a pretty good summary.

On our visit, kids as old as about ten were swept along by bubbly elf characters, an enthusiastic astronomical guide and the chance to make their own Christmas stars, which they could take home to put on the Christmas tree.

Those found to be on the “nice list” are also presented with a Christmassy book and have their photo taken. These pictures can be bought after leaving the attraction, along with other mementos such as snow globes, frames and key rings.

The clever part, compared to many traditional grottos, is that tickets are booked in timed slots and everyone is asked to arrive ten minutes early — so there’s no dull queuing to endure.

Children learn how to send wishes by shooting star and learn a special elf salute, and then get their hands on the glitter, glue and felt-tip pens, with each stage hosted in a different room, further enhancing the sense of variety.

You’re not rushed away from the crafting table, either, with little ones given plenty of time to perfect their ideal designs.

There are hints of the 21st century here or there — the lighting reminded me of a hipster bar, and the elves were clad in cosy gilets, faux fur-lined hats and fingerless mittens, rather than the traditional green and red garb, but Santa a reassuringly pretty much as you’d expect to find him.

Overall, it’s hard to imagine more peaceful or stress-free grotto experience, especially compared to the inevitable pre-Christmas congestion in the neighbouring shopping mall.

Alex Caley, marketing events manager for Meadowhall, said she hoped the experience would “add a little sparkle and capture the hearts and imaginations of families across the region”, but advised people to book early as Santa is sure to have a busy month.

The Wish Upon a Star with Santa experience runs until Christmas Eve, with accessible, quiet sessions on Tuesday mornings.

Visit https://www.meadowhall.co.uk/grottonews to find out more and buy your tickets, which are only available online.