Center Parcs welcomes Santa Claus back to the forest at Woburn

Center Parcs has unveiled its Winter Wonderland for 2020, which includes a new woodland light trail, Covid-secure visits to Santa and a host of festive activities.

The usual snowy scenery and glittering decorations will be adorning the forest, but the business has had to adapt its seasonal plans in line with national guidance around the coronavirus pandemic.

Alan Park, operations director at Center Parcs, said: “2020 has been a really tough year for everyone, and we wanted to try and bring a bit of festive cheer to families. Our team of elves have been working hard to create a magical experience, while also making sure we’re keeping our guests, our staff and, of course, Santa Claus himself, safe.”

He added: “We’ve been liaising with the North Pole’s Elf and Safety team to make sure Santa can still join us this December and their team of helpers have been busy getting everything ready.

"Most importantly, Santa will still be able to see and talk to the children in his workshop, with careful social distancing in place.”

This year, Center Parcs has introduced a new experience which will allow families to explore a woodland filled with twinkling lights and bursts of colour, lighting up the forest canopy.

The Enchanted Light Trail invites guests to follow a light and sound woodland trail, with an opportunity for families to become part of the show with ‘energy bands’ offering an even more immersive experience.

At Woburn Forest, a laser garden will also form part of the festive celebrations.

Festive breaks are available at Woburn Forest until January 2, although Santa will leave the village to start his Christmas preparations on December 24.