This article is sponsored by Enchantica's.

The look of amazement on the children's faces was lovely to see.

We walked through to the elf village where, on long picnic tables, we were invited to make paper chains ready to decorate the village. Hot chocolates, soft drinks and even beers were flowing, with sweet treats also on offer.



The elves flitted from table to table, chatting to the children about their creations. Adding to the magic, they also knew a little about each child:

Paper chains complete, we were shown through to the elf workshop. It was at the end of a snow-covered pathway, lined with glowing, elf-sized windows, lanterns and wintry scenes.



The path opened out into a classic fairytale setting: fireplace, Christmas tree, toys, stockings, and hundreds of fairy lights. It's hard to believe that, in the summer, this tipi was serving afternoon teas and cocktails.

Within a few minutes, the show was under way. Chief Elf Tinsel encouraged participation in songs and other activities, even bringing up a few children to help with parts of the show.

The most thrilling part was the arrival of Father Christmas. Without wishing to spoil the surprise, let's just say he entered in traditional fashion, and took up his spot on the throne by the fire to join in the fun.

The children were all enthralled by the whole thing - even my 19-month-old paid attention throughout the half-hour experience, clapping at the right moments and peering around to see Santa.



Once the show was over, we were brought up in family groups to meet Father Christmas and have our photos taken. Each child received a wooden token to exchange for a toy from the elves.

These were good quality gifts and just right for the ages of the recipients. A cuddly snowman delighted my toddler, while her four-year-old brother has been playing with his snap cards from the moment he unwrapped them.

On the way out, we posed in Santa's sleigh for photos, observing the snow-dusted Christmas trees and footprints on the ground.

It was this attention to detail that made it work so well. From the quality of the costumes to their engagement with the children, the team of elves kept everything running smoothly and were utterly convincing throughout.



The setting was as luxurious and twinkly as you could wish Santa's workshop to be, and Santa and Chief Elf Tinsel put on a captivating show that worked for all ages - including a few witty asides for the grown-ups.

I came away with that magical feeling I remembered from my own childhood, seeing the excitement and wonder on my children's faces. It's the kind of experience I can imagine becoming an annual tradition for our family.

Can we sign up for next year yet?

 

• The Father Christmas Experience is recommended for children aged up to seven. Tickets are £11.50 for adults and £15.50 for children (£14.50 and £19.50 on Christmas Eve). There are showings for children with special educational needs on Sunday, December 4 and Sunday, December 11. Click here for details.


• For children aged seven and over, the Codebreaker's Christmas offers an escape room-style experience where children train at spy school to help Santa on a secret mission. Tickets are £15.50 per person and shows run on Fridays December 2 and 9, and Wednesday, December 21. Click here for more information or to book tickets.

Read more:

• Advent calendar of offers and prizes from Harrogate businesses


• Santa's Chief Elf Tinsel invites good boys and girls to be fellow elves in Harrogate Christmas show