Christmas in Kent truly is magical.
Yes, it’s dark, cold, and heating bills are soaring, but the antidote to all the midwinter gloom is that the county transforms into a wintry wonderland, glittering with Christmas lights and beautifully decorated trees. It’s also brimming with festive workshops, Christmas markets around every corner, the delightful aroma of gingerbread wafting through the air, and the timeless tunes of Mariah Carey and Michael Bublé wherever you go.
One particular venue, Bewl Water in Lamberhurst, is going all-out with a brand-new Christmas experience, welcoming visitors from November 18. Santa Claus is leaving the North Pole and setting up shop at southeast England’s largest reservoir until December 24, where he and his crew will transform the woodlands into an enchanted wonderland.
Step into this whimsical world where the mischievous elves will lead you through various festive workshops, themed lands and play zones, and a magical grotto. Inside, Father Christmas will be waiting with a special gift for all the good boys and girls.
To join the fun, sessions start from £40 per child and £15 per adult, which also covers car parking for the event. They can be bought online at: christmas.bewlwater.co.uk where peak times are already selling fast.
Christmas at Bewl Water promises plenty of photo opportunities along the way, and there will also be a charming Candy Land sweet shop, where you can refuel with seasonal drinks and festive treats, and purchase souvenirs to take home.
When booking, it’s essential to remember that your session time indicates your family’s arrival for Santa’s Grotto, so be sure to plan ahead and allocate enough time before your slot to fully enjoy all the festive fun on offer.
Bewl Water mentions that the entire experience will take approximately two hours, and you should arrive within that two-hour window before your designated Grotto visit to complete each activity, grab a bite to eat and explore the enchanted wonderland.
Upon arrival, children will receive a special stamp card which Santa’s Head Elves will mark off as they finish each workshop. The first stop is Santa’s Post Office, where the helpful elves will assist in writing a special letter to Father Christmas. Don’t forget to share all your wishes before dropping the letter into the magical post box for express delivery to the North Pole.
Next, head over to Rudolph’s mixing station, where children can follow a special recipe to ensure Santa’s reindeer are well-fuelled on Christmas Eve.
A stop at Mrs Claus’ Bakery follows, before diving into Christmas crafts! There will also be live storytelling performances by Santa’s Head Elves before wrapping up the experience with a private meet-and-greet, which lasts 10 minutes.
Make sure to dress warmly and wear suitable footwear, as all the workshops will be held outdoors under marquees.
