Santa's Cottage Hilltown Newry, Hilltown

Reviews

1. Emma Chambers ★★★★★

   I read a few reviews of Santa’s Cottage beforehand and felt a little nervous, but honestly, I do not understand how this place doesn’t have a full five-star rating across the board. It was absolutely amazing from start to finish. From Santa’s entrance, to the fun and laughter in the hall with the elves, right through to Santa’s Cottage itself, everything was just magical. We were a group of seven adults and seven children, and the time Santa took with us was unbelievable. He spoke to every child individually, chatting about their likes, interests, and what they wanted for Christmas. He got everything spot on. He was exceptional — unreal, totally brilliant. He truly was the main event. After meeting Santa, we went on to Santa’s bedroom, where the lady there was so funny and friendly, adding even more magic to the experience. I honestly can’t rate this place highly enough. If you’re looking for an unforgettable Christmas experience, this is one to tick off the bucket list. The setting is absolutely out of this world — you genuinely feel like this is exactly where Santa would live in Ireland. Five out of five. Keep up the amazing work. Unbelievable experience

   almost 6 months ago
2. Peter McKinley ★★★★★

   Amazing santa visit. Santa comes the chimney. The elves are fun and play games. Santa house is such a cute old traditional Irish cottage and Santa was amazing. How he remembers all about my children I will never know. There is also real reindeers and a lovely natively set. Photo booth and virtual slay rides and elf workshop. Food available also.

   almost 6 months ago
3. Laura Croan ★☆☆☆☆

   We visited this weekend and unfortunately were disappointed. After hearing so many positive things, we had high expectations. Our booking was for 7pm, following check in we were shown to a room where there were 2 elves who had to interact with all the families and pass the time until your family was called to see Santa. Unfortunately for us our family was second last to be called, therefore were waiting for approx 30 mins. I’m not sure how the order is selected for Santa to see? I had read on another review that it is in order of booking, however we booked back in May. Once it was our turn we were shown through Santa’s kitchen, then into Santa. The kids both received a gift. Following seeing Santa there were a few scenes to observe, an igloo and a nativity. To finish there was a hall with a few photo opportunities. Generally an underwhelming and expensive experience. From speaking to others, it seems that there used to be more, such as decorating a Christmas cookie, writing a Santa letter, and then a mince pie and cuppa for adults at the end. Sadly there was none of that at all, which is a shame when it cost £90 for 4 of us. There are much better Santa experiences in NI for similar prices, and unfortunately I would not recommend this one.

   almost 6 months ago

1. Hannah Donnelly ★☆☆☆☆

   I really wanted to love this place but it actually left me,y husband and my daughter feeling so deflated. The cottage was beautifully decorated but apart from that there was not a lot to do. The outdoor bits were a bit worse for wear and very old (like the stable). There wasn't much going on in the big room - just a screen and the 360 photo thing but very little atmosphere and again nothing to really do. The cafe was very very basic, And the Santa was very obviously fake to an older child. I think if you're going to say it's Santa's official residence and it's the real Santa, a really decent beard could be bought. My daughter was so excited to meet the real Santa and we drove and stayed in a hotel only for her to straight away say but he didn't have a real beard. It broke my heart and that was one of her last Christmas' believing. I wanted to fork out for this to give us a really memorable experience as she's coming to the end of Santa days and it just was so underwhelming. Comparing to cheaper experiences we have been to where there was mulled wine and hot chocolate, marshmallow roasting, train rides , trails of lights etc this just fell so flat. Raging I spent the money on it and bigged it up so much to my daughter. I really was expecting more.

   almost 6 months ago
2. Pigzy XXX ★★★★★

   Amazing family experience. This really got us and the kids into the Xmas spirit. Really well done. The kids had a ball. Visiting Santa made the whole experience he spoke to them about their favourite things and what they wanted for Xmas. Highly recommend is a tad expensive tho.

   1 year ago
3. Nicole O'Brien ★★★★★

   This was our third year here and we just love it. Money well spent. Lights and decorations and whole presentation are amazing! The staff are great and play the part amazingly! Such a cosy christmassy feel.

   almost 3 years ago

1. Kelly Watt ★★★★★

   Brilliant set up. All staff so friendly and Santa was very good. I did not feel rush or crowded and the kids absolutely loved it

   almost 3 years ago
2. Ross Stewart ★★★★★

   A great Xmas experience for all ages. Very professional staff who entertain and interact with the family to ensure the kids have a wonderful and great experience

   almost 3 years ago
3. Ronald McDonald ★★★★★

   A good experience. Well done to the staff a santa. All the grandchildren loved it.

   almost 4 years ago

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