Usually I don’t get into the festive spirit until Christmas Eve, when mulled wine is being handed around the living room and family members are putting on their thermals in preparation for a chilly walk to midnight mass.

This year, however, the impossible happened — I felt the joys of the festive season in the middle of November.

When I was invited to try out the ice rink and Santa’s grotto both located in Bluewater’s
West Village, by the lakes, I could not resist.

There are a few things more liberating than skating around at a fast pace on thin blades with the cold winter air blowing into your face.

When I turned up at the grotto and ice rink, I felt as if I had entered a winter wonderland with its Christmas lights and decorations reminding me that the festive season is looming and that present shopping should not be left until the last minute.

The skates provided were comfortable and staff was very accommodating while the ice rink itself was in great condition. It looked as if all the guests were enjoying themselves — although some may have left with cold bottoms after losing balance and ending up on the floor a few times.

Following a refreshing skate, it was time for the moment we had all been waiting for — our chance to meet the great mystical embodiment of Christmas, Santa Claus.

Entering the grotto felt as if I was walking back into my childhood. I was buzzing with the Christmas spirit and excited to see what presents Santa would surprise me with.

Before we met the man himself, the festive journey began with a visit from Mr Crumb, Santa’s chef, who we helped make a gingerbread man which sprang to life as he came out of the oven.

Following the baking session we were given the opportunity to make Christmas decorations in Mrs Claus’ craft room.

After the craft session, the anticipated moment was looming.

We walked into the grotto and found Father Christmas in fine form, spreading the festive joy.

The grotto is perfect for children, whose wildest imaginations will be let loose, while the ice rink is perfect for everyone looking to have a leisurely Christmas skate.

I walked away from the experience with Christmas cheer, which is a rare experience for this time of year.

Perhaps it’ll prepare me for the onslaught of Christmas songs I’m bound to hear on the radio in the coming week’s.

The ice rink opens today and will close on Sunday, January 7, costs £9 for children, £10 for juniors aged 13 to 16 and £11 for adults. A family of four can purchase tickets for £34.

All ice rink tickets are available for an hour along with time to change in and out of the skates.

Santa’s Grotto also opened its doors today and will welcome guests until Christmas Eve (Sunday, December 24). It costs £10 per child while one adult gets free entry. Additional adults cost £5.