Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, Broadstairs, Kent brings festive cheer with its Christmas market and Santa’s grotto. Beginning on Saturday 16th November, shoppers can browse a variety of unique gifts, and sample delicious festive treats. From Friday 29th November, meet Santa himself.
Festive shopping at Westwood Cross
Westwood Cross’s Christmas market hosts small, independently run stalls, bringing an array of unique items perfect for holiday gifting. Along the main mall from H Samuel to Boots and extending along the harbour wall opposite Hotel Chocolat, the market will remain open until 24th December.
Local vendors to explore
Some of the Christmas market highlights include:
- Bootie Boutique – Fashion-forward accessories and baby gifts, including cosy clothing sets and footwear for all ages.
- Cookieman – Freshly baked cookies in creative flavours like banana bread, chocolate crisp, and cinnamon sugar.
- Eye4Image – Perfect for pet lovers, offering vouchers for professional pet photography by Mike Avery.
- Kidz Closet – A Kent-based boutique with personalised children’s clothing and festive homeware, including popular Christmas Eve boxes.
- Nomad Jewellery – Stunning jewellery pieces crafted from high-quality silver, stainless steel, and semi-precious stones.
- 4 Keeps Jewellery – Unique ‘permanent’ jewellery, such as bracelets and necklaces that can be custom-designed and welded for a lifetime.
Westwood Cross Santa’s grotto brings magic to all ages
29th November to Christmas Eve, Santa’s grotto welcomes families to meet Mr Claus in the Sundial area. Children on the ‘nice’ list chat with Santa and receive a special age-appropriate gift. Tickets cost £6.50 per child, and adults accompanying a paying child enter for free.
Santa’s grotto accepts walk-ups, though it’s recommended to book online to avoid disappointment as this magical attraction is popular. Book your Santa visit here.
Giving back this Christmas
Westwood Cross is partnering with The Salvation Army and 1st St Lawrence Scout Group to support families in need. Please visit the Wishing Well to donate, or drop off pre-loved clothing, footwear, and winter essentials at points across the centre.
Bringing the festive spirit to life at Westwood Cross
Fran Donovan, Centre Director at Westwood Cross, shares her excitement, “Christmas is the most magical time of year at Westwood Cross, with our festive decorations, including a giant teddy bear, reindeer, and walk-through bauble. Alongside some of the best high-street brands, our Christmas market features incredible independent vendors to help guests complete their shopping lists. Santa’s grotto will bring a truly memorable experience for children, and we encourage guests to book early.”
For further details or to plan your Christmas visit, go to westwoodx.co.uk.
Parents News UK has a Feature on Best Grottos
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