Families in Shepton Mallet are being offered a festive experience tailored for children with additional needs, as Santa's Quiet Grotto returns to Dobbies Garden Centre on Friday, 6 December. This carefully adapted event aims to provide a magical Christmas memory in a sensory-friendly environment.

The Quiet Grotto experience is designed for neurodiverse children who may find traditional Christmas events overwhelming. Measures include turning off music, removing twinkling lights, and creating a relaxed setting with no queuing. Each session is limited to a small number of families, ensuring a calmer atmosphere.

To help children prepare, families will receive a photo of the grotto in advance, giving them the chance to familiarise themselves with the space. Santa's team will also ensure that every detail is tailored, including the option to have gifts wrapped or unwrapped to suit individual preferences.

This year's grotto will take visitors on a train-themed journey, complete with interactive elements and festive scenes. Children will be welcomed by elves at Sleighbell Station, explore snowy forests, spot woodland creatures, and discover hidden nutcrackers before meeting Santa Claus himself.

For children who may feel shy or hesitant, activities such as snowball fights and storytelling are optional, ensuring everyone can participate in a way that feels comfortable. Families will also have the opportunity to take a professional photo with Santa to capture the memory.

The event has been widely praised in previous years for creating an inclusive space where children of all abilities can enjoy the magic of Christmas without added stress or sensory overload.

Tickets are £12.99 per child, and sessions must be pre-booked. Families in Shepton Mallet are encouraged to reserve their spot early to avoid disappointment.

For more details and to book, visit the Dobbies website.