Families are flocking to Clacton Pier’s magical enchanted grotto in their droves.
The attraction is on course for one of its best attended festive experiences with seven dates still to go.
Slots with Santa are going fast and there are only limited spaces still available to be booked before the big day arrives.
The elves and Mrs Claus have been kept busy welcoming children to the event which continues this weekend (December 13 and 14) and then runs from December 20 to Christmas Eve.
The pier has been totally transformed into a festive wonderland with giant decorations, twinkling lights, massive Christmas Tree and snow machine at the entrance.
General manager Harry Peek said the grotto and North Pole experience with animatronic characters and reindeer stables is proving a real hit.
“A great deal of time and work goes into ensuring those who visit the pier at this time of year make magical memories together,” he added.
“It sets the family up for a great Christmas and the response this year has been as good as ever. The numbers attending speak for themselves.
“The children have enjoyed being part of the action helping to sort Santa’s presents and wake up the sleepy reindeer in some new interactive experiences for 2025.
“Also, for the first time Santa has been giving children a present of a bespoke Clacton Pier penguin called Waddles and he has gone down very well. He is a nod to our past when we had penguins on site along with other sea life.”
Children also take home a freshly baked cookie from Mrs Claus.
The cost of the grotto is £16.50 per child with no charge for adults accompanying a child.
Another highlight is Santa’s Magical Sleigh Ride: 4D, which whisks visitors away on an immersive festive journey, while the Festive Wheel Experience offers stunning views of the decorated pier and giant tree.
The best-value ticket is the Winter WonderBAND, priced at just £9.99 online, which includes the sleigh ride, wheel experience, adventure golf, unlimited video games and dodgems.
“It’s great to see the children’s excitement and their smiling faces – it has certainly put me in the mood for Christmas festivities,” said Mr Peek.
For full details and to book go to www.clactonpier.co.uk
