Work is officially underway on one of the most ambitious and immersive Christmas experiences the UK has ever seen. Sidestep Events Ltd, a subsidiary the North West’s leading production company UK Events Group, are now in full swing creating Santa’s Secret Forest – a cutting-edge, high-tech winter wonderland.
The 40 acre site set in the picturesque surroundings of Orrel Hill Woods, Hightown, is set to be transformed into a glittering light trail with over 2 million dazzling multi-coloured lights, jaw dropping special effects and breathtaking festive scenes designed to spark festive joy and make magical memories for families across the country.
At the heart of the experience lies Santa’s Christmas Hub, a never-before-seen concept and the epicentre of Operation Christmas. Spanning over 2,700 sq mtrs the Hub is a bustling, interactive hour long journey through the magic behind the scenes with 10 immersive rooms bustling with festive activity.
Busy Elves will welcome you at the Grand Lobby, before Conductor Merryweather takes you on a magical train journey on the Tinsel Town Express. After a mesmerising visit to Santas Sleigh Garage, Elves will guide you to North Pole Command the nerve centre of Operation Christmas, where teams of Santa’s helpers work around the clock making sure everything is on track.
The journey continues to The Mail Room where children can write their own letter to Santa and send it flying through a giant tube which goes direct to Santas sorting office. Then it is time to wander through the whimsical Elf Village and peer through frosted shop windows before you arrive at the Toy Workshop, a magical place where the Elves are busy getting the toys ready for the big day. Next is the Time Tunnel where you will be transported to a family Christmas Grotto from decades past and leads you to cosy cabin style departure lounge, where you will receive an ‘Elf and Safety briefing’ before you round your journey off in the awe inspiring Magic Elevator. Take flight from Santas Secret Forest straight to the North Pole where you will soar through the snowy skies, over forests and hills until you reach the home of the Big Man himself who will be waiting to greet you.
Your journey does not end there! The experience continues with a glimpse of a real life reindeer and all the magic of Merrywood Market a hive of festive merriment and cheer, where you can enjoy twinkly stalls serving a host of mouthwatering dishes including Yorkshire Pudding Wraps, Pizza’s, Burgers and Fries or Bratwurst. Or, enjoy Toasted Marshmallows, Crumble and Brownies with a Hot Chocolate, Tea or Coffee. A selection of alcoholic and soft drinks are also available to round off the trip of a lifetime. Optional extras at Merrywood Market include a ride on the Postal Express, a miniature train which glides its way through a woodland setting or take to the skies with a 4D VR Sleigh Ride, an unforgettable virtual journey that puts you right in the drivers seat of Santa’s sleigh as it soars across snowy rooftops.
“This is unlike anything the UK has ever seen,” said James McMahon Director of Sidestep Events Ltd. “We’re combining world-class technology, theatrical storytelling, and Christmas traditions from the 80’s to date to create a truly magical experience that engages all the senses. It’s not just a light trail – it’s a full-blown adventure into the very heart of Christmas.”
General admission tickets which includes the light trail and Christmas Hub start from £34 plus booking fee, light trail only tickets start from £15 plus booking fee. Luxury VIP packages are also available and full details are on the Santas Secret Forest website – www.santassecretforest.co.uk
Santa’s Secret Forest will open on Friday 21st November and run until Wednesday 24th December and tickets are ON SALE NOW. With limited slots available and unprecedented demand expected, families are encouraged to visit www.santassecretforest.co.uk and secure your memory making tickets before they are gone!
Santa’s Secret Forest, Orrell Hill Lane, Liverpool. L38 5DA
To book tickets and for further information please visit the website: www.santassecretforest.co.uk
For enquiries please email: info@santassecretforest.co.uk
Follow the journey on Instagram: @santassecretforest
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