EXCITED children can take a magical journey through an enchanted forest to meet Santa Claus this Christmas.

This week Delamere Forest will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with festive stalls selling hot mince pies and mulled wine as a Victorian market emerges between the trees.

Children can take a magical journey through the forest, travelling on a special festive land train to Santa’s grotto, while their parents chose the perfect Christmas tree.

For the first time the Forestry Commission will be opening Santa’s grotto every weekday from 3-5pm on the Whitefield site, with a Victorian street fair and real Christmas tree sale to get visitors in the festive mood.

Land trains will operate from 3pm daily and throughout the weekend taking families on a trip through the ancient woodlands.

Two late night events will also take place on December 7 and 14 with activities running until 8pm, including visits to Santa’s grotto.

Rachael Clayton of the Forestry Commission said: “This year promises to be the best yet with lots of festive activities taking place throughout the week.

“We are really looking forward to hosting two late night events giving families the chance to collect their tree and enjoy the forest in the evening when it is even more magical.”

Trees will be available to buy every day from November 28 to December 19, 9-5pm, with a wide selection of sizes in pine, spruce and fir along with wreaths, holly and mistletoe.

Schools, nurseries and pre-schools can book to see Santa in his grotto during the week. For more information visit: www.delamere- forest.co.uk.