Bluewater grotto and ice rink to open ahead of Christmas opening hours

Christmas officially arrives at Bluewater this week with the opening of Santa's grotto and its popular ice rink.

The lights at the Greenhithe shopping centre have already been switched on.

But it is only from this week that shoppers can make the most of Bluewater's additional festive attractions ahead of a change in opening hours, which begins on Friday, November 23 when the centre will be open until 10pm Monday to Saturday.

From Thursday (November 15) families can pay a special visit to Santa in his gorgeous grotto by the lakes at The Village.

The festive journey begins with a traditional Christmas story presented in 4D, before joining Mrs Claus for crafts, and ending with a visit to Santa where you are given a toy to take home.

Tickets to the Grotto are from £10, with accompanying adults free. To learn more or to book tickets in advance see here.

Santa's Grotto opens at the same time as the undercover outdoor ice rink, which is also found beside the lakes at The Village.

There are seal shaped skating aids for children, bob skates for those who need to be steady on the ice and skating lessons available for anyone keen to whirl, glide, skate and slide around the huge sparkling Christmas tree.

Hot drinks and refreshments are also available rink-side to keep everyone warm and on Fridays in the run up to Christmas there will be additional entertainment in the form of Friday-night party nights led by kmfm presenters Rob Wills and Andy Walker.

These special events take place every Friday evening from November 30 until January 4.

Ice skating prices start from just £9 for children, £10 for juniors (aged 13-16), £11 for adults and £34 for a family of four.

To learn more about skating at Bluewater, click here.