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Last weekend we were invited to take part in the Devon Santa Search with Devon’s Top Attractions. We were tasked with visiting certain Devon attractions to find Santa and then record our experiences on social media.

Devon Santa Search

“Devon’s Top Attractions have a 48 hour live takeover with three bloggers who will be visiting as many of Devon’s top visitor attractions as they can ‘in search of Santa and the Devon Christmas spirit’. “

Our first stop was to Dartington Crystal Visitors Centre in North Devon to find Santa in his Frozen themed grotto. 

Santa’s Grotto

We had to follow the footsteps through the store to find Santa. Once we got there the kiddies were delighted to find a Frozen themed grotto.

They both went in together and did the obligatory telling Santa what they wanted for Christmas. They had a chat about leaving out mince pies and a brandy and then Santa gave them a present each. The presents were a bundle of goodies including colouring books, crayons, wind up santa toys and mini games. Our two were both very happy with what they got.

The visit to Santa costs just £4.50 per child.

Once we had found Santa we had a quick look around the shop, quick being the optimal word here as I didn’t think that all of that gorgeous shiny crystal and two very excited children was a great combination.

Shopping

They have got some really lovely products for sale in their main shop, I’m just glad I had the kiddies to distract me otherwise I would of been going home with armfuls of goodies. We did manage to get four new Portmeirion plates though, ready for our guests at Christmas.

Face Painting

After escaping the store with everything still in one piece we headed to the restaurant area where the kiddies had their faces painted by the very talented Devon Face Painting. The face painting was free but you could put a donation in a pot for a local children’s charity which I thought was a nice touch.

Tarka Pottery

After the face painting the kiddies made some Christmas tree ornaments with Tarka Pottery. They cost £5 each to make and you can pick them up at a later date after they have been finished in the kiln.

Lunchtime

When the kiddies had finished creating their masterpieces it was time for some lunch. I had a chicken and bacon panini and it was very nice. The children had the kids meals which included all sorts of bits like sausage roll, fruit and crisps. The other half had a pasty.

We all had a lovely time at the centre and I was pleasantly surprised by how much there was to do, especially for the kids. We are looking forward to visiting again but this time to see the factory experience which is only open on weekdays.

If you are looking for somewhere to visit Santa in North Devon I would definitely recommend Dartington Crystal Visitors Centre and the Frozen themed Grotto.