SANTA visits have come on a bit since we were children haven’t they?

Gone are the days when you could only meet the main festive man in your local shopping centre or perhaps at primary school if you were lucky. For today, you can meet him in all kinds of places and even over breakfast!

Which is exactly what happened to Elsie last weekend (and us!), as we tried out the ‘Santa Breakfast’ experience at Carr Gate Garden Centre in Wakefield. A rather lovely way, to spend a Saturday morning it has to be said.

At 9am we were tucking into full English’s and pulling crackers and by 10am Elsie had met Santa, told him about her surprisingly short Christmas list and we were soon on our way home!

Set up in the cafe area, the Santa breakfast was well organised and thoughtfully planned out.

A friendly ‘elf’ named Josh met us on arrival and showed us to our special table, where awaited a little festive goody bag of sweet treats for Elsie and even a Christmas card.

The personal touch was well appreciated and such a kind gesture.

After pulling our crackers and watching Elsie devour her chocolates, our breakfasts arrived quickly without us even having to ask. Jamie and I received adult size English breakfasts whilst a mini version came for Elsie, with cups of tea and a beaker of juice on the side.

As we tucked into our tasty breakfasts, the excitement of meeting Santa making us all pretty hungry (!), Christmas music played out across the restaurant area and it all felt very festive.

And not long after, Santa himself arrived. A little late to the breakfast party (some children were beginning to get a little anxious!) but definitely worth the wait.

In he came pushing a trolley full of kids toys, accompanied by a friendly female elf. A perfect Santa, who most definitely ‘looked the part’ in his famous red outfit.

Soon it was time to meet him and after a short wait of no more than five minutes, it was Elsie’s turn.

We watched as she sat next to him, chatting away without a care in the world. No tears and thankfully no fear, just utter happiness and excitement.

As Elsie said her goodbyes to Santa, she was presented with a biscuit decorating kit to do at home (a lovely idea) and asked to pick a toy from the gift trolley on her way out.

We left feeling suitably festive, nicely full and with Elsie clutching her toy, her new ‘pet’ – a soft cuddly dog that has since been named Rosie Sparkle. (Naturally!)

As festive breakfasts go, our Santa visit sure was a cracker.

Information

Many thanks to Wyevale Garden Centres for inviting us. If you fancy the sound of a Santa Breakfast for your little one, here’s how to book on one.

*Disclaimer – We were kindly invited to review the experience by Wyvale Garden Centres, but as always all opinions and words are my own.