North Point Shopping Centre in Bransholme, Hull, is marking a decade of spreading festive cheer with its free Santa’s grotto. Since its launch in 2014, the grotto has welcomed nearly 30,000 children, offering a magical Christmas experience without charge. This year, the centre expects to see at least 3,000 more children before the grotto closes for the season at 3pm on Christmas Eve.
The Bauble Grotto, located in the shopping centre’s atrium, gives every child the chance to meet Santa and receive a gift, completely free of charge. No booking is required, and the grotto remains open each day until every child in the queue has had their turn. As the average cost of seeing Santa across the UK rises to £10–£20 per child, this initiative ensures that cost is never a barrier to making Christmas special for local families.
In addition to the grotto, the centre supports the Mission Christmas campaign, providing gifts to families across Hull. Visitors can also purchase photo souvenirs, including framed pictures, baubles, and snow globes, starting at £7.50.
On Saturdays between 11am and 3pm, the festive fun continues with free face painting and Christmas-themed crafting sessions. Children can transform into characters like the Grinch or Elf on the Shelf, adding to the seasonal excitement.
A spokesperson for FI Real Estate Management, which owns and manages the centre, said: “We love welcoming the local community to North Point Shopping Centre for some festive magic. Over the past decade, we’ve helped more than 30,000 children make precious Christmas memories. With the rising cost of seeing Santa, we’re proud to offer this experience free of charge, ensuring every family can enjoy the magic of Christmas.”
North Point Shopping Centre offers free parking and is open seven days a week. After visiting Santa and his elves, families can explore over 60 retailers, including national brands like B&M and local independent traders, for their Christmas shopping needs.
