Little Diggers Christmas Grotto With Shenstone Garden Centre

Is there anything quite as magical as meeting Father Christmas? Well, how about watching your little ones meeting him?! In terms of that all-important tingly, magic that comes hand in hand with small children at Christmas, our recent visit to the Little Diggers Christmas grotto in Shenstone Garden Centre in Lichfield certainly didn't disappoint. 

When we arrived at the garden centre, the boys were excited to see all the Christmas decorations and particularly loved the giant polar bear at the entrance! 

Once inside we made our way to find Santa. As we moved through the store we came across a wooden hut beautifully decorated with a snowy theme. The boys were thrilled to spot Santa sitting inside! We were then greeted by one of Santa's helpers who couldn't have been lovelier to the boys. She asked the boys if they would like to chose a special seed which they then placed in a little pot along with a plant label with their names on. They were then shown towards a magical cupboard which they placed the pots inside. 

While they waited for the magic to do its work, it was time to have a seat next to Santa! Santa spent time with each of the boys asking them what they would like for Christmas. He didn't even flinch when my five year old specified his wish for a laminator (as you do!)- what a pro! My two year old was feeling a little shy at first but Santa put him straight at ease and soon he was chatting away. They were each issued with an age appropriate present too which they were both really excited about. 

Next up, it was time to open the magical cupboard! When they peeked inside they discovered their seeds had grown into little Christmas trees- what a lovely surprise! The boys were enthralled with this and were delighted with their trees. After saying their goodbyes to Santa and his helper and promising to leave him a mince pie, they headed out where they were able to decorate their trees with a variety of baubles, sparkly streamers and ribbons. This was a great activity which held their attention. 

We were also given the option to buy a photograph and we chose one which will make a lovely keepsake. 

We all loved the Little Diggers Christmas grotto experience; it offers something a little bit different from standard grotto experiences, capturing their attention as well as going one step further in creating some Christmas magic too! The addition of the Christmas trees as well as the gift also make it great value for money.  For more information and to book your Santa experience just click here!

Disclaimer: We were kindly offered a complimentary visit in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own.