Parents Criticize Winchester Christmas Grotto Over Disappointing Santa Experience

Families report a lackluster Santa Claus with a fake beard and cheap costume, leading to tears and calls for refunds from organizers.

The Winchester Great Hall's Christmas grotto, managed for the first time by Hampshire Cultural Trust, has faced backlash for its new Santa Claus portrayal.
Parents complained that the Santa had a 'blatantly fake beard,' a 'cheap red suit,' and lacked the warmth and joviality of previous years' performers.
Tickets for the event cost £18.50 per child and £6 per adult, with some attendees describing the experience as a 'shambles' and 'awkward.'
The Trust acknowledged customer disappointment, citing 'teething problems,' and offered refunds to those who had not yet attended but expected the experience to match prior years.
Critics highlighted additional shortcomings, including minimal decorations and a poorly delivered reading of 'The Night Before Christmas.'