Santa’s Secret Forest Announces Extra SEN Sessions in Liverpool After Sell-Out
Santa’s Secret Forest has announced two additional SEN sessions for Christmas 2026 after its original dedicated sessions sold out due to overwhelming demand.
The popular festive experience, located at Orrell Hill Woods in Hightown, Liverpool, has added two extra sensory-considerate sessions on Sunday 20 December at 10am and 10.30am, giving more families the opportunity to enjoy the magical woodland adventure this Christmas.
Returning for its second year, Santa’s Secret Forest promises an enchanting experience featuring illuminated woodland trails, immersive storytelling, festive characters and plenty of interactive surprises.
What to Expect From the SEN Sessions at Santa’s Secret Forest
The dedicated SEN sessions have been designed to offer a calmer, more comfortable experience for children with special educational needs and disabilities.
Adjustments include reduced lighting intensity without strobe effects or sudden flashes, softer sounds with gentle acoustic music played at a lower volume, and limited visitor numbers to help minimise crowds and sensory overload.
The sessions are particularly suited to children with autism, sensory sensitivities, learning disabilities or anxiety around loud noises and busy environments.
Following the sell-out of the original sessions, organisers have responded to demand by releasing two additional time slots, helping more families enjoy the festive experience in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
James McMahon, Director of Sidestep Events Ltd, said: “We’ve been absolutely overwhelmed by the response to our SEN sessions this year. To see the original sessions completely sell out before we’ve even opened is incredible, and it really highlights how important these dedicated experiences are to families.
“Christmas is such a special time, and we want as many children as possible to be able to enjoy the magic in an environment where they feel comfortable. We’re delighted to introduce two additional sessions and give more families the opportunity to make those precious Christmas memories together.”
What’s New at Santa’s Secret Forest for Christmas 2026?
Alongside the additional SEN sessions, Santa’s Secret Forest is returning with an expanded festive experience, transforming 2,700 sqm of woodland into a magical Christmas world.
One of the highlights is the illuminated woodland trail, which has been designed to sparkle throughout the day as well as after dark.
Thanks to the natural canopy of Orrell Hill Woods, the trees filter daylight to create a sheltered atmosphere where the festive illuminations can still be enjoyed during morning and afternoon visits.
Younger visitors can also take part in the new Spot the Pixel adventure, searching for Pixel, the attraction’s mischievous signature elf, who will be hiding along the woodland trail.
Families will explore more than 10 immersive rooms and experiences, meeting magical characters and discovering interactive festive surprises along the way.
A brand-new magical burrow is another exciting addition for 2026, featuring live magicians, puppeteers and magical wands.
Other highlights include real reindeer, an upgraded illuminated trail and what organisers describe as the UK’s largest snow machine, bringing a flurry of festive snow to the woodland.
Festive Food and Drink at Merrywood Market
The experience will also welcome the return of Merrywood Market, with The Bus Yard providing a selection of street food, sweet treats and warming winter drinks.
With covered tipis, festive decorations and plenty of photo opportunities, the market offers families somewhere to relax and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere before or after their woodland adventure.
How to Book Santa’s Secret Forest SEN Sessions
The two additional SEN sessions will take place on Sunday 20 December 2026 at 10am and 10.30am.
With the original sessions already sold out, families interested in attending are encouraged to book early to avoid missing out.
Santa’s Secret Forest SEN Sessions
Sunday 20 December 2026, 10 and 10.30am
Orrell Hill Woods, Hightown, Liverpool, L38 5DA
santassecretforest.co.uk
