Children can take part in their ‘own toymaker’s task, becoming part of the story and helping to bring it to life’ at this all-new Santa grotto
Merry Hill at Christmas
Merry Hill has announced details of its new Christmas event for 2026 – a Toymakers’ Grotto.
Following on from the success of last year’s North Pole Express train, this all-new experience invites families to enjoy a 30-minute interactive experience together.
Children will be ‘transported into the world of festive toymaking’, where they can take part in their own toymaker’s task, becoming part of the story and helping to bring it to life.
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Families are then invited further into the magical experience for more fun and games with the elves before meeting Santa together.
There will be plenty of time for Santa to chat with families and capture the special moment with their own festive family photos.
Each child is given an official toymaker certificate and a small Christmas gift to take home.
When is the Toymaker’s Grotto at Merry Hill?
The grotto launches on November 20 in Merry Hill’s central event space.
It will then take place every day until December 23.
How much are tickets to Merry Hill’s Toymakers’ Grotto?
Tickets went live on Wednesday September 9 at 12pm.
It costs £15 for children, including a small gift, and £5 for adults.
Advance bookings are highly recommended and tickets are on sale now via the Merry Hill website
What age is the Merry Hill’s grotto suitable for?
The grotto is geared for children aged four to eight.
However, there will also be age-appropriate alternative activities for younger visitors too.
Will there be SEN sessions at Merry Hill’s grotto?
Yes, the centre bosses have confirmed there will be dedicated SEN sessions.
Jonathan Poole, centre manager at Merry Hill, said: “Christmas is such a special time of year for families, and we know how much our visitors enjoy making festive memories together at Merry Hill.
“This year, we wanted to create something that feels new and different, while keeping all the magic that makes a visit to Santa so special.
“The Toymaker’s Grotto gives children the chance to step inside Santa’s world and become part of the magic themselves.
“It’s more than simply a visit to see Santa – it’s a Christmas adventure that we hope families will cherish for years to come.
“And with plenty of places to shop, eat and play, families can make a whole day of their visit, enjoying everything Merry Hill has to offer while soaking up the centre’s festive atmosphere.”
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