Work is officially underway on one of the UK’s most ambitious and immersive festive attractions. Sidestep Events Ltd, a subsidiary of the North West’s leading production company UK Events Group, has begun transforming Orrel Hill Woods, Hightown, into Santa’s Secret Forest – a cutting-edge, high-tech Christmas wonderland unlike anything seen before.
Experience An Enchanting Woodland
Spanning 40 acres of enchanting woodland, the attraction will dazzle visitors with light trail incorporating over two million multi-coloured lights, breathtaking special effects, and awe-inspiring festive scenes designed to spark festive joy and create magical memories for families across the UK.
Santa’s Christmas Hub
At the heart of the experience is Santa’s Christmas Hub – a first-of-its-kind, 2,700 sqm interactive walkthrough where visitors embark on an hour long journey through 10 immersive rooms, each brimming with festive activity. From the Grand Lobby to the Toy Workshop, the Time Tunnel to the awe-inspiring Magic Elevator, North Pole Command to Santas Sleigh Garage, the Tinsel Town Express and Santas bustling Mail Room families will step behind the scenes of Operation Christmas and witness the magic of Santa’s world come to life.
The adventure doesn’t stop there. Visitors can continue the magic with:
- A glimpse of Santas real-life reindeer
- Merrywood Market, serving festive food and drinks including Yorkshire pudding wraps, bratwurst, pizzas, burgers, brownies, and toasted marshmallows
- Optional extras such as the Postal Express miniature train and a 4D VR Sleigh Ride, offering an unforgettable chance to soar across the skies and snowy rooftops
“This is unlike anything the UK has ever seen,” said James McMahon, Director of Sidestep Events Ltd. “We’re combining world-class technology, theatrical storytelling, and timeless Christmas traditions from the 80’s to date to create a magical experience that engages all the senses. It’s not just a light trail – it’s a full-blown adventure into the very heart of Christmas.”
Santa’s Secret Forest Tickets
- General Admission (Light Trail + Christmas Hub): From £34 + booking fee
- Light Trail Only: From £15 + booking fee
- Luxury VIP Packages Available
Opening Dates: Friday 21st November – Wednesday 24th December
Location: Orrel Hill Woods, Hightown
Tickets: On sale now at www.santassecretforest.co.uk Instagram: @santassecretforest
For enquiries please email: info@santassecretforest.co.uk
With limited slots and unprecedented demand expected, families are urged to book early to secure their place at this once-in-a-lifetime Christmas adventure.
Santa’s Christmas Hub – contains 10 magical rooms
Grand Lobby – Your adventure starts in the Grand Lobby. Elves greet you, and the magical guestbook comes to life. Feel the excitement as the adventure begins.
Tinsel Town Express – Hope aboard the Tinsel Town Express, and immersive magical train carriage that takes you into a storybook world. As festive music plays and the scenery rushes by, Conductor Merryweather welcomes you aboard.
Santa’s Sleigh Garage – Santa’s sleigh needs urgent repairs. Children are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and the sleigh flight-ready.
North Pole Command – North Pole Command, the nerve centre of Operation Christmas is where the elves keep tabs on who has been extra kind and who might need a little festive reminder. Mischievous elves, glowing screens and twinkling control panels are keeping Christmas on track
The Mail Room – Enter the world’s busiest post office, where letters fly through tubes to reach Santas sorting office. At a cosy writing station, write your letter to Santa and send it down the magical chute and watch as it races straight to the North Pole.
The Elf Village – Stroll through the bustling Elf Village, where snow-dusted shopfronts glow with festive cheer. Pause at the charming Toy Shop and peer though it’s frosted windows to discover favourite Christmas toys of years gone by, all lovingly displayed by Santas master toymakers.
The Toy Workshop – Step into Santa’s bustling Toy Workshop where Elves rush around, finishing toys for Christmas. Roll up your sleeves and help the Elves are getting ready for the big night and discover how Santa’s toys come to life.
The Time Tunnel – Step into the Time Tunnel and be transported to the family Christmas grotto experience of decades past. Wander through magical scenes inspired by the grottos your parents and grandparents once visited. All the twinkling fairy lights, cosy festive displays, and the warm, timeless charm of Christmases gone by. It is a heartwarming celebration of tradition, perfect for sharing stories, smiles and a little festive nostalgia across generations.
Departures – Time to board the North Pole Elevator Tours! Step into a cosy, cabin-style lounge, where festive cheer fills the air. Pay close attention to the ‘Elf and Safety’ briefing as this magical elevator ride might get a little bumpy as your prepare for lift off!
The Magic Elevators – Soar to the top of the world! Step inside the magic elevators and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime flight from Santa’s Secret Forest straight to the North Pole. As the doors glide shut, snowflakes swirl past the windows and the forest falls away beneath you. You will soar high above the clouds heading towards the glittering lights of Santa’s snowy home ready for your special visit to see the Big Man himself.