Preparations underway for Santa’s visit

(Date of issue: Monday, 1 December 2008)

Santa will be making a visit to Talkin Tarn this Christmas.

Preparations are currently underway to create a magical Green Grotto at the Country Park. Following an environmentally-friendly theme, the Alex Boathouse is being be decked out in displays ‘recycled’ from last year’s Tullie House’s popular ‘Once Upon a Time’ exhibition.

The enchanting exhibition attracted 14,500 visitors and closed in mid-November following great success. Based around Cumbrian stories, myths and beliefs, it used the museum’s collections to stimulate imagination and inspire creativity.

In addition to Talkin Tarn, other elements, illustrations, furniture and exhibition resources were also donated to local schools and nurseries, the Eden Valley Hospice, the Library Service and Impact Housing.

The Green Grotto will be open in the Alex Boathouse this weekend (Saturday 6 - Sunday 7 December), followed by Saturday 13 - Sunday 14 December and Saturday 20 - Sunday 21 December, between 11am and 3pm each day.

As well as meeting Santa and receiving a small gift, there will also be the chance for local children to post their letter to Lapland. Entry is £2.50 per child.

Four course Christmas lunches are also available in the Talkin Tarn tearoom, each day, until Friday, 19 December. Evening functions are also available. Telephone 016977 41050 to make a booking.

A range of Christmas cards and gifts are also on sale at Talkin Tarn’s shop, perfect as last minute stocking fillers.