FRENSHAM Garden Centre has lifted the curtain on its first ever ‘Winter Wonderland Grotto’ as part of a £1 million-plus refurbishment of the independent, family-run centre in The Reeds Road.

Farnham Brass Band was on hand to perform at the grotto’s grand opening in on Sunday, November 27, and will return for a second performance of festive favourites this Sunday (December 11).

Owner of the garden centre, David Wheelhouse said: “We have completely refurbished the whole site, we have actually spent over £1 million this year refurbishing. It has been worth it, we hope to be the premium garden centre in this area, this year and all of next year.

“We truly are a one-stop shop for Christmas. We have an improved coffee shop, a new food court, loads of Christmas gift ideas, a huge range of ski wear, new camping section and loads of free parking.

“You should visit our grotto because it’s free and one of the best in the area, outside of London I would say it’s the best.”

In addition to the grotto, children can also join Santa for breakfast and receive a special gift from December 1 to 24, Wednesday to Sunday, for £9.99 per person, or enjoy a novelty Christmas story read aloud by Mrs Claus on December 17, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23, at 11am and 3pm, free of charge.

“We have over 800 artificial and real trees, we’ve got what I think the biggest selection and display of lights around anywhere,” added garden centre manager, Brian Phillips.

“Breakfast with Santa is a first for us as well, we will be doing that every day throughout December, except for Mondays and Tuesdays, basically because Santa needs a couple of days off!”

To conclude the festive antics there will be family fun shows with children’s entertainers Katie and David on Sunday, December 18, at 11am and 2pm. No booking required.