We all enjoyed the event (30 mins) and would recommend to others. There are only a few niggly bits, so that's why it's four stars instead of five
Santa's Grotto is situated outside at the Waitrose end of the mall, in a purpose built building in the walkway between the station and Premier Inn. It's fairly small so prams had to be left in a covered buggy park. I visited with a newborn and a four year old, so it was fiddly to carry a car seat, changing bag, etc.
I visited at 10am without booking and that was ideal as it wasn't busy, so collected the (free) tickets at the door. The 30 minute session is divided into three parts, taking the child's picture via an iPad so it can be inserted into the movie, watching the movie and then seeing Santa (taking a picture and getting a present).
You can purchase a picture/magnet/keyring at the end for £6 each or £15 for all three. A snowglobe for £10 and usb with one picture for £10 (iirc) .
I'm not sure if it's because we were the first slot, but the Grotto didn't seem to be running as smoothly as it could have been. The doors were open late. There were only four parties with a total of 6 children and we queued to get in once the doors were open which was odd as I was the only party to have to collect a ticket. Perhaps that had something to do with reception being fully manned but only one person dealing with the queue. Also did not appreciate being bundled from the waiting area to the cinema - literally closing the doors on our heels.
At the exit arrived to be informed that the tills not working, so photos would not print and an issue over whether we could pay with cash or not - exact change only !. However, issues resolved when supervisor arrived with a cash float for the tills and advised the staff to stop using the till which wasn't working and use the other which was.
All in all a good experience - kids loved it, especially speaking with Santa and whilst staff helpful and friendly, not terribly efficient.
I would avoid when busy which it was starting to get when we left. Can see it being a cattle pen and being ferried from one place to the next without a chance to fully experience or enjoy.
Westfield Stratford City Santa's Grotto @
- Westfield Stratford City , London @
- 05/12/2011 @
Favourite moment: Seeing your face on the big screen in the film and talking to Santa. @