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Writer's pictureAyrshire Daily News

All Aboard Santa’s Grotto at Dobbies Ayr Store

Dobbies Garden Centres is unveiling a magical line up of festive experiences for all the family to enjoy this Christmas at its Ayr store, including the much-loved Grotto which is back with a brand-new look.


Santa will take residency at the new Little Seedlings train-themed Grotto this November and

December at the Ayr store, spreading the joy of Christmas to families in the area.


After a warm welcome from the elves at Sleighbell Station, children will get to experience

snowy scenes, spot woodland characters, find hidden nutcrackers, all culminating in the

chance to tell Santa what they would like for Christmas.


Here, families will have the chance to capture the moment with a photograph of Santa, making a lasting memory of the experience. 


Dobbies will also offer a sensory-friendly Quiet Grotto experience at its Ayr store on Friday 6

December, designed to help reduce anxiety and provide a customised environment for

children with additional needs.


Lighting, sound and visual effects will be minimised, giving kids that cherished moment with Santa. Session times are extended to allow for a slower, relaxed experience.


Dobbies’ Events Programme Manager, Ayesha Nickson is looking forward to welcoming kids along to the brand-new Little Seedlings train-inspired Grotto at the Ayr store. She said:

“Whether little ones are meeting Santa and his elves for the first time, or it’s a family

tradition, our Grotto and Quiet Grotto experiences aim to create magical moments that can

be treasured for years to come.


“There’s the chance to gather the whole family for a range of our festive experiences

including our delicious Festive Afternoon Tea, charity Christmas Shopping Night in aid of

Teenage Cancer Trust, or a paw-dorable picture moment at Santa Paws. A visit to Dobbies will

really be a treat for all the senses this Christmas.”


Customers are encouraged to book in advance for Dobbies Christmas events to avoid

disappointment.


  • Santa’s Grotto runs from 28 November until 24 December, £12.99 per child

  • Santa’s Quiet Grotto takes place on 6 December, £12.99 per child


To learn more about the Christmas events at Dobbies’ Ayr store and make a booking, visit

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