I went to Bluewater shopping centre in Kent to get ready for the festive season.
It’s, after all, that magical time of the year when mince pies and mulled wine begin to form part of our main diet, and when Mariah Carey continues to get rich from that Christmas song.
The Bluewater shopping centre has over 300 stores to browse through, free parking and between the Christmas shopping, there were various activities to do.
Bigger budget activities at Bluewater
If you have money to spend, here are your options.
Meet Santa and his special reindeer
Take your little ones to Believe – the secret of Santa’s little reindeer. Children are entertained by the reindeer puppet Norbet and enjoy a private session with Santa. It’s open until 24 December. Kids pay £14.50, and adults pay £5.50.
Ice Skating
Have a ball and dance on the ice. It’s £14.50 for children under 12 years old and £16.50 for ages above.
Winterland
Go wild with these winter-themed rides and games. There are over 10 rides to choose from. Winterland is open until 8 January 2023. Entry is £3 for adults and children. You’ll also need to buy tokens for the rides.
Gravity Trampoline Park
Bouncing looks so much fun with these wall-to-wall trampolines. Prices are £15.95 for a one-hour jump.
Gravity Rocks
Climb away with this rock challenge. It’s £14.95 for a 30-minute climb.
Dinotropolis
Discover this soft adventure play into the world of dinosaurs. Children under 16 years old can roam as a ranger for £13 – £20, depending on which pass you go for. Meanwhile, accompanying adults can explore for £5.50.
Adventure Golf
If you’re adventurous enough to brave the cold outside, enjoy the thrill and chill of golfing at pirate cove. Prices range from £20-40 depending on if you play at peak or off-peak times.
Junior Off-Road Experience
Teach your kids to drive using electric cars. Prices are £12.50 for children aged 5-12 years old.
The Giving Tree
If you want to give back to those who may not be fortunate enough to afford a Christmas this year, this is a great cause.
The Giving Tree supports charities such as the NSPCC, Teens fighting Cancer, The Salvation Army and local food banks.
By picking a star from the tree, it tells you the name and age of a child. You can buy a gift for that child, so they can have a Christmas gift too.
Places to eat
There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants to re-energise and refuel.
Choose from over 60 places to eat. These is a range of cuisines and restaurants such as Pizza Express, Zizzi’s, Wagamama, Café Rouge, The Real Greek, Nando’s, Tapas revolution, Big Easy BQ and Crabshack, Five Guys and TGI Fridays.
Freebie activities at Bluewater
If you don’t want to spend money on activities after your Christmas shopping, there are some free things to enjoy too.
Photo opportunities
Strike a pose with the stunning Christmas trees, sculptures and decorations inside and outside the shopping centre. See how many you can find!
Browse the Christmas stores
Glance through Christmas stores such as Christmas magic and the Xmas Castle and be swept away by their enchanting décor.
Art exhibition
The Under The Rainbow Events is a free exhibition that features work from over 60 artists around Kent. The exhibition’s name comes from the colourful pieces of work on display that are uplifting for the festive season.
You’ll find artwork from ceramics, paintings, and drawings to jewellery. The exhibition is open until 12 December.
Outdoor playgrounds
If you or your kids need to release some steam, there are some playgrounds.
Grab a bite at Bluewater
Eating out doesn’t have to be expensive. You can buy a snack or sandwich from a food stall, otherwise, bring packed lunches and eat them in the food court or seating areas across the mall.
It will be a challenging holiday season for many with the eye-watering cost of living right now.
However you decide to spend your festive break, enjoy it on your budget and in your own style.
Visit their website for more information about Bluewater shopping centre.