Work Begins on Santa’s Secret Forest – North West’s Most Exciting Hi-Tech Christmas Experience
Work has officially begun on one of the UK’s most ambitious festive attractions, as Orrel Hill Woods in Hightown is transformed into Santa’s Secret Forest – a cutting-edge Christmas wonderland promising to redefine the magic of the season.
Spanning 40 acres of woodland, the attraction will feature a spectacular light trail with more than two million multi-coloured lights, breathtaking special effects, and larger-than-life festive scenes designed to immerse families in the spirit of Christmas.
At the heart of the event is Santa’s Christmas Hub – a 2,700 sqm interactive walkthrough billed as the first of its kind in the UK. The hour-long journey takes visitors through 10 themed rooms, including the Grand Lobby, Toy Workshop, Time Tunnel, Magic Elevator, North Pole Command, Santa’s Sleigh Garage, the Tinsel Town Express, and the bustling Mail Room – offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse of Santa’s magical world.
The experience continues outdoors, with visitors able to meet Santa’s real-life reindeer, browse Merrywood Market for festive food and drink, and enjoy extras such as the Postal Express miniature train and a 4D VR Sleigh Ride across snowy rooftops.
“This is unlike anything the UK has ever seen,” said James McMahon, Director of Sidestep Events Ltd, the team behind the project. “We’re combining world-class technology, theatrical storytelling, and timeless Christmas traditions 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.”
Tickets are on sale now, with general admission starting from £34 and light trail-only tickets from £15 (plus booking fee). VIP packages are also available. The event runs from Friday 21 November to Wednesday 24 December at Orrel Hill Woods, Hightown.
With demand expected to be high, families are encouraged to book early at santassecretforest.co.uk
