Santa has ditched his home in the North Pole this festive season and taken up residence on a floating forest in Alderford Lake, accessible only by speedboat.

Santa's Island Experience, located at Alderford Lake, has been named among the best festive days out in the UK for 2024 by PA Media.

Introducing the list, PA reporter Sarah Marshall said: "From secret Santa island reachable only by speedboat to festive bars on open-top double decker buses, these events will raise your Christmas spirit.

"While everyone focusses on the big day itself, the build-up in anticipation of festive celebrations is arguably far more fun.

"Across the UK and Ireland, stately homes, family farms and amusement parks are holding festive events ranging from traditional grottos and sleigh ride to more outlandish offerings.

"Be dazzled by lights, wowed by extravagant decorations and amused by some of the novel ways people have found to mark the countdown to Christmas."

Alderford Lake's Santa island among UK's best festive days out

Alderford Lake Santa island was featured on PA's list, recommended as the best festive day out for "novelty value".

Explaining the experience, the news outlet said: "Temporarily swapping ice caves in Finland for an island in Shropshire, Santa has taken up temporary residence in a floating forest in Alderford Lake.

"Zip across the water in a speedboat to meet the big man for a storytelling session in a cosy tipi followed by campfire s’mores and gift giving.

"In the spirit of a green Christmas, eco elves are decked out in finds from charity shops."

Visitors to Alderford Lake's Santa island have also described it as the "best Santa experience ever", on Tripadvisor.

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For more information about the Santa experience visit the Alderford Lake website (a link to which can be found above).

When: Santa's Island Experience at Alderford Lake will run from November 21 until December 23.

Price: Children from £32 and adults from £29.