Hello from the Hilltop team! December is a magical month here at Hilltop Garden Centre, and we’ve got a incredible line-up of activities to bring the joy of Christmas to you and your family. From meeting Santa to watching balloon modelling, there’s something for everyone. So why not join us at our garden centre in Clacton-on-Sea for a month filled with fun, laughter, and a touch of Christmas magic?
Explore Our Magical Winter Wonderland
Throughout December, we invite you to experience our enchanting Winter Wonderland, located right here in Weeley, just outside Clacton-on-Sea. Step into a festive indoor woodland filled with twinkling lights, cheerful Christmas music, and magical displays that capture the spirit of Christmas. Don’t forget to visit our singing reindeer and hop aboard Santa’s sleigh for a unique photo opportunity. It’s the perfect outing for the whole family and a great way to get excited for Christmas.
Saturday, 7th December 10am-2pm: Meet Santa & Christmas Face Painting
Kick off the festive season with us on Saturday, 7th December. From 10 am to 2 pm, Santa will be waiting in his workshop to greet your little ones and hand out a special free gift! While you’re here, let the kids enjoy our free Christmas face painting! They can transform into festive characters like reindeer, elves, or snowmen — it’s all part of the fun.
All of our activities this month are completely free, but if you'd like to help us raise money for our chosen local charity this year, the Robin Cancer Trust, your voluntary donation will help the charity in their work to raise awareness of cancer in young people, supporting them in their quest to save lives - and spreading even more Christmas spirit in our local community. You can find out more about the charity here, and see how your donation (however small) really can help to save lives.
Saturday, 14th December 10am-2pm: Balloon Modeller & Meet Santa
If you missed Santa on the 7th or just want another magical (and free) day out, join us on Saturday, 14th December, from 10 am to 2 pm. Santa will return to his workshop to spread more joy, and this time, we’ve invited a talented balloon modeller to entertain the kids!
Watch in awe as they create fantastic balloon sculptures to delight children of all ages. The best part? There’s no charge for this festive fun. At Hilltop Garden Centre Essex, we’re all about creating fun, family-friendly experiences for our local community, so don’t miss out!
Saturday, 21st December 10am-2pm: Face Painting & Santa’s Workshop
As Christmas draws closer, join us for one final festive celebration on Saturday, 21st December, from 10 am to 2 pm. Santa will be in his workshop for the last time before his big night, so be sure to bring the kids to meet him and capture the magic.
We’ll also have free Christmas-themed face painting to add a touch of festive sparkle to the day. Whether you're visiting us to pick up a new plant, browse our range of Christmas gifts, or to enjoy a meal in our restaurant, we have everything you need to make your visit worthwhile.
Saturday, 21st December, 2-4pm: 'The Sharpener'
Bring your garden tools and kitchen knives to Hilltop Garden Centre on Saturday, 21st December, from 2pm to 4pm for a professional sharpening service by The Sharpener. He’ll expertly clean and sharpen items like secateurs, shears, scissors, and kitchen knives, giving them a fresh edge and enhancing their performance. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your tools but makes every cut smoother and easier.
While you wait, treat yourself to coffee and cake, or feast on one of the Christmas specials in our cosy café. Don’t miss this opportunity to get your tools ready for next year.
At Hilltop Garden Centre, we’re more than just a garden centre with a café near Clacton; we’re a family-friendly day out!
