FAQs

When is The Grotto open?

The Grotto is open between 27 th November – 23 rd December on selected dates, between 11am – 4pm.

When does the Grotto close?

The last child is seen at 4pm. Because of this, on busier days, the queue may be closed earlier to make sure everyone sees Santa, so please arrive early to avoid disappointment.

How much does the Grotto cost

The Grotto is free for all to attend

Will my child receive a gift?

Each child will receive a gift, suitable for children aged between 3 – 8.

My child has special needs. Are there any provisions for this?

We have a SEN session on the 21st December, between 9am – 12pm. Here the lights and sounds will be calmed. We also hold Sen friendly sessions on Friday, open to all, as these dates will be less busy and quieter than the weekends.

We’ve found a golden ticket! What do we do?

Congratulations! Please take your ticket and visit The Entertainer on the First floor, where you can choose an item(s) instore to the value of £30 and goodie bag. Any money left on the gift card is forfeited by the winner. For anything over the value of £30, the difference must be paid for by the winner.

This must be redeemed by 5pm on the date of issue which is indicated on the ticket.

My child has special needs. Are there any provisions for this?

We advise you consider visiting on the Fridays listed in the dates above, as these will be quieter.

When does Santa take his break?

Each day, Father Christmas will take his break at 1:30pm. The break will last for 30 mins. You are welcome to remain in the queue during this time.

Can we visit the grotto when Santa isn’t in County Mall?

You can! Santa’s Festive Fun Factory is an open Multi-sensory experience when Santa isn’t in and busy getting the presents ready! Just pop in during the shopping centre’s opening hours. The Festive Fun Factory will be closed from 26 th December.

Terms and Conditions of Golden Ticket Competition:

General Terms & Conditions (of which instruction forms part) 1. By entering the promotion all entrants are deemed to have read and accepted these terms and conditions 2. The promoter is County Mall Shopping Centre. 3. Registering is only open to UK residents aged 18 or over. 4. Promoter's decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into. 5. Promoter recognises that their activities are governed by English Law and entrants recognise that the county or high courts of England shall have exclusive jurisdiction in the event of a dispute. 6. Promoter reserves the right to terminate or modify the promotions and/or Terms and Conditions at any time. 7. Promoter reserves the right to disqualify any entrant (at its own discretion) if there are reasonable grounds. 8. The prize listed is for holders of the golden ticket provided in the free Santa gifts. 9. The deadline for use of ticket is listed on the golden ticket. 10. The prizes cannot be exchanged; no cash alternative can be offered. 11. These prizes are subject to date availability, and government COVID-19 regulations; 12. Subject to local or national lockdown implementation, if the winner or centre is affected, delay to the prize redemption may be provided at the discretion of the Promoter.  13. Attendees should retain a copy of these terms and conditions.