Work is officially underway on one of the UK’s most ambitious and immersive festive attractions. Sidestep Events Ltd, a subsidiary of the North West’s leading production company UK Events Group, has begun transforming Orrel Hill Woods, Hightown, into Santa’s Secret Forest – a cutting-edge, high-tech Christmas wonderland unlike anything seen before.
An Enchanting Woodland Experience
Spanning 40 acres of enchanting woodland, the attraction will dazzle visitors a light trail incorporating over two million multi-coloured lights, breathtaking special effects, and awe-inspiring festive scenes designed to spark festive joy and create magical memories for families across the UK.
Santa’s Christmas Hub
At the heart of the experience is Santa’s Christmas Hub – a first-of-its-kind, 2,700 sqm interactive walkthrough where visitors embark on an hour-long journey through 10 immersive rooms, each brimming with festive activity. From the Grand Lobby to the Toy Workshop, the Time Tunnel to the awe-inspiring Magic Elevator, North Pole Command to Santa’s Sleigh Garage, the Tinsel Town Express and Santa’s bustling Mail Room, families will step behind the scenes of Operation Christmas and witness the magic of Santa’s world come to life.
The 10 Magical Rooms
Grand Lobby – Your adventure starts in the Grand Lobby. Elves greet you, and the magical guestbook comes to life. Feel the excitement as the adventure begins.
Tinsel Town Express – Hope aboard the Tinsel Town Express, an immersive magical train carriage that takes you into a storybook world. As festive music plays and the scenery rushes by, Conductor Merryweather welcomes you aboard.
Santa’s Sleigh Garage – Santa’s sleigh needs urgent repairs. Children are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and help get the sleigh flight-ready.
North Pole Command – North Pole Command, the nerve centre of Operation Christmas is where the elves keep tabs on who has been extra kind and who might need a little festive reminder. Mischievous elves, glowing screens and twinkling control panels are keeping Christmas on track.
The Mail Room – Enter the world’s busiest post office, where letters fly through tubes to reach Santa’s sorting office. At a cosy writing station, write your letter to Santa and send it down the magical chute and watch as it races straight to the North Pole.
The Elf Village – Stroll through the bustling Elf Village, where snow-dusted shopfronts glow with festive cheer. Pause at the charming Toy Shop and peer though it’s frosted windows to discover favourite Christmas toys of years gone by, all lovingly displayed by Santa’s master toymakers.
The Toy Workshop – Step into Santa’s bustling Toy Workshop where Elves rush around, finishing toys for Christmas. Roll up your sleeves and help the Elves in getting ready for the big night and discover how Santa’s toys come to life.
The Time Tunnel – Step into the Time Tunnel and be transported to the family Christmas grotto experience of decades past. Wander through magical scenes inspired by the grottos your parents and grandparents once visited. All the twinkling fairy lights, cosy festive displays, and the warm, timeless charm of Christmases gone by. It is a heartwarming celebration of tradition, perfect for sharing stories, smiles and a little festive nostalgia across generations.
Departures – Time to board the North Pole Elevator Tours! Step into a cosy, cabin-style lounge, where festive cheer fills the air. Pay close attention to the ‘Elf and Safety’ briefing as this magical elevator ride might get a little bumpy as your prepare for lift off!
The Magic Elevators – Soar to the top of the world! Step inside the magic elevators and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime flight from Santa’s Secret Forest straight to the North Pole. As the doors glide shut, snowflakes swirl past the windows and the forest falls away beneath you. You will soar high above the clouds heading towards the glittering lights of Santa’s snowy home ready for your special visit to see the Big Man himself.
Additional Attractions
The adventure doesn’t stop there. Visitors can continue the magic with:
- A glimpse of Santa’s real-life reindeer
- Merrywood Market, serving festive food and drinks including Yorkshire pudding wraps, bratwurst, pizzas, burgers, brownies, and toasted marshmallows
- Optional extras include as the Postal Express miniature train and a 4D VR Sleigh Ride, offering an unforgettable chance to soar across the skies and snowy rooftops
A Unique Experience
“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 timeless Christmas traditions from the 80s to date to create a 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.”
Ticket Information
- General Admission (Light Trail + Christmas Hub): From £34 + booking fee
- Light Trail Only: From £15 + booking fee
- Luxury VIP Packages Available
- Opening Dates: Friday 21st November – Wednesday 24th December
- Location: Orrel Hill Woods, Hightown
- Tickets: On sale now at www.santassecretforest.co.uk
- Instagram: @santassecretforest
- For enquiries please email: info@santassecretforest.co.uk
With limited slots and unprecedented demand expected, families are urged to book early to secure their place at this once-in-a-lifetime Christmas adventure.
Santa’s Secret Forest promises to be one of the most spectacular Christmas experiences in the UK, combining cutting-edge technology with traditional festive magic to create an unforgettable family adventure.
Paul KnowlesPaulEdit Profile
