Festive Fun at Westwood Cross 2025: Santa’s Grotto and Christmas Cabins Return to Broadstairs
Discover the magic of Christmas at Westwood Cross in Broadstairs, Kent. Visit Santa’s Grotto and browse the Christmas Cabins market, open November–December 2025.
Published 10/11/2025
The coastal town of Broadstairs, nestled on the Isle of Thanet in east Kent, is set to shine brighter than ever this Christmas. At the heart of the festive excitement lies Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, which once again transforms into a hub of holiday cheer with the return of two much-loved attractions — Santa’s Grotto and the Christmas Cabins.
From mid-November through to Christmas Eve, families, shoppers, and visitors can enjoy magical experiences designed to capture the true spirit of Christmas in Kent. With free parking, full accessibility, and a welcoming atmosphere filled with festive décor, Westwood Cross offers an effortless and joyful way to celebrate the season.
Santa’s Grotto at Westwood Cross
Dates: 28 November – 24 December 2025
Location: Sundial area, Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, 23 Margate Rd, Broadstairs CT10 2BF
Tickets: From £7.50 per child (+£1 booking fee); adults accompany free with a fully paid child ticket.
Adults without a child: £7.50 + £1 booking fee (includes gift)
Booking: Book online at Joey the Clown Tickets
Parking: Free parking on-site; wheelchair and pushchair friendly
Website: Santa’s Grotto at Westwood Cross
Opening Hours
General Hours (28 Nov – 14 Dec):
Mon–Fri: 2pm–5pm
Sat: 10am–5pm
Sun: 10am–4pm
Extended Hours (15–24 Dec):
Mon–Fri: 11am–5pm
Sat: 10am–5pm
Sun: 10am–4pm
Final Day (24 Dec): 10am–5pm
A Magical Visit for the Whole Family
Santa’s Grotto has become a cherished annual tradition for local families. The team behind the attraction ensures each visit feels personal, from the friendly elves’ warm greetings to the snow-dusted décor that delights children and adults alike. Many families return year after year, turning the grotto into a cornerstone of their festive season — a place where childhood memories are made and stories of Christmas magic continue to grow.
Enter a beautifully decorated grotto in the Sundial area, where children step into a winter wonderland to meet Santa himself. Elves greet guests on arrival, guiding them into a cosy, festive setting where each child can share their Christmas wishes and receive an age-appropriate gift to take home.
The experience is designed with families in mind — relaxed, photo-friendly, and accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Booking online secures a convenient time slot and helps avoid queues, although walk-ups are welcome where space allows.
With generous opening hours stretching from late November to Christmas Eve, the grotto makes it easy to add a little festive magic to your shopping trip or weekend outing. Adults enter free with paying children, ensuring the whole family can join in.
Whether it’s your child’s first meeting with Father Christmas or a returning annual tradition, Santa’s Grotto at Westwood Cross promises joyful moments and memories to treasure.
Christmas Cabins: A Festive Market with Local Charm
Dates: 15 November – 24 December 2025
Location: Main Mall, Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, Broadstairs CT10 2BF
Tickets: Free entry, no booking required
Parking: Free on-site parking
Website: Christmas at Westwood Cross
A Winter Market Experience in Broadstairs
From Saturday 15 November, the Christmas Cabins return to the main mall, bringing with them a delightful mix of Kent’s most talented small businesses and artisans. Running right up to Christmas Eve, the cabins line the central walkway — stretching from H. Samuel to Boots and continuing along the harbour wall opposite Hotel Chocolat — transforming the shopping centre into a cosy indoor festive market.
Each wooden cabin is brimming with unique gifts, handmade treats and seasonal products that make shopping both personal and meaningful. With no ticketing or time limits, you can wander at your leisure, enjoy a coffee, and discover something special for everyone on your list.
With both attractions running throughout December — and the Christmas Cabins opening from mid-November — visitors have plenty of time to plan their festive day out. The centre’s free parking, wide range of shops and cafés, and convenient location on Margate Road make it an ideal destination for visitors from across Thanet and east Kent.
Whether you’re visiting for Santa’s Grotto, browsing the Christmas Cabins, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Westwood Cross offers an easy and joyful way to celebrate the season close to home. With shops, cafés, and entertainment all in one place, it’s the perfect destination for festive meet-ups with friends or family. The centre’s twinkling lights and welcoming energy make every visit feel like a small Christmas celebration of its own.
For full details, opening hours, and booking information, visit westwoodx.co.uk.
