in July.While perusing candy canes, cakes and Christmas trees may feel as wrong as a skinny Santa Clause, here at Junior we are strong believers that forewarned is forearmed. So it was with a spring in our step and a mince pie in our hands that we perused

Whiteleys Christmas GrottoNovember 17–December 24In support of the National Literacy Trust’s Young Readers Programme, The jolly Santa Claus in Whiteleys in Bayswater will be giving away age-appropriate books to every child who visits him in his cosy

pram all crafted in wood. In a bold, and playful, contrast to all that white, we also spied a gorgeous soft teddy bear with ebony fur. In the centre of the room sat a large white tree that was decorated with Nordic handcrafted Santa Claus figurines

with Santa Claus and cute woodland critters, and a Playmobil Princess Wedding, which is a right royal majestic affair with castles and kings. Meanwhile in the Lego corner, we have the coolest ever Leog Star Wars Advent Calendar featuring a rather fetching

, Lapland is also the home to a particular beneficent red-suited chap with the habit of handing out gifts. A range of tour operators offer special Santa trips, where, in addition to meeting Santa Claus, children can enjoy a host of activities

into fun Santa Claus or snowman decorations with a simple lick of paint. Once children have painted their masterpieces, thread roughly three inches of wire around the coiled base and attach to your tree. 5. Crocheting is set to take over from knitting

of the Claremont Landscape Garden in Surrey.Gwel an Mor’s Celebration Of ChristmasDecember 10, 11Residents of Portreath, Cornwall should head down to holiday resort, Gwel an Mor for this two day festive spectacular. Santa Clause will be on hand with his reindeer

as a redistribution of wealth). Considering her misdemeanours, the big question is: will Santa be bringing Charlie any presents this year?“I love that line from Santa Claus Is Coming To Town, ‘So be good for goodness sake,’” says Curtis. “It’s hilarious

for the senses in the heart of Hyde Park. Attractions include an enormous outdoor rink surrounded by twinkly pea-lights, a Bavarian village offering warming winter eats and a chance to meet Santa Claus himself.Ice At The TowerNovember 17–January 6The shiver down

of wintry fun happening at Edinburgh Ice Rink. Santa Claus will be visiting the ice rink on December 4 and 5 and there will be an Xmas Factor competition happening on December 22. There will also be two outdoor stages hosting live music acts.Time: 10am–8