A brand-new interactive Santa's grotto is set to return to Metrocentre this November, with tickets available to buy for the experience now.

The Metrocentre will launch its new Christmas experience, Santa's Elf Academy, on November 16, in the Lower Blue Mall.

The event will offer a hands-on adventure for families, which will include activities such as Northern Lights laser training, present placing, and an elf fitness class.

Children will also get a personal visit with Santa and a special gift.

The experience is designed for children aged 18 months to 10 years, but is open to families of all ages.

Santa will be available to meet from November 16 until 2pm on Christmas Eve.

The experience will last around 25 to 30 minutes, with families advised to arrive no more than five minutes before their booked time slot.

Most read

Our flash sale is still on – 30% off an annual subscription. Get unlimited access to local news, enjoy our ad-free mobile and tablet app and read the replica of the paper on your device. Subscribe before it's too late!

Helen Atkinson, marketing manager at Metrocentre, said: "We’re really excited to introduce our new Santa’s Elf Academy to Metrocentre this Christmas.

"This immersive experience is designed to bring the joy of Christmas to life in a whole new way.

"It’s a chance for children to become part of Santa’s story and create memories they’ll treasure.

"Metrocentre is always a magical place during the countdown to Christmas, and this new experience will not only enhance that but make it an even better destination for families to visit."

Tickets will go on general sale from 10am on Tuesday, September 24.

Prices are £12 per child and £5 per adult during peak times, and £10 per child and £5 per adult during off-peak times.

While it’s recommended to book in advance, there may be last-minute tickets available on-site via QR code, subject to availability.

The first half an hour of sessions on Thursday and Sunday mornings are dedicated sessions for those with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND).

These sessions have been created with SEND persons in mind and are much quieter and calmer than the other Santa’s Elf Academy sessions, with a reduced capacity.

For more information, including booking details, prices, and session times, visit the Metrocentre website.