Over 500 children are expected to descend upon Holker Hall to meet Santa as part of the attraction’s festive celebrations.

Father Christmas and his elf helper will be in his specially-created grotto in the hall’s courtyard, where children not only get a gift and photo opportunity, but can also enjoy a mince pie and drink afterwards.

Accompanying grown-ups are also in for a treat as a complementary hot drink is offered on arrival, and there’s the opportunity to indulge further in the café or grab a last minute present in the gift shop.

Fran Horne, head of visitor services at Holker Hall, said: “Santa’s Grotto runs on Saturday and Sundays in December, except for the last weekend before Christmas, when we are open on Friday, December 22 and Saturday 23. We are closed on Christmas Eve.”

The grotto must be pre-booked here, and adults are encouraged to share details of the child including name and age.

Fran added: “Just drop in and join in the singing. It’s fun for all the family and a really nice way to feel festive – after all, everyone loves a sing-song.”

The hall itself is not open to the public, but the courtyard café, the food hall, A Day’s Walk, and gift shop are open Friday to Sunday each week.

All aspects of Holker Hall close on December 23 until the middle of March.