SLEIGH bells will be ringing this weekend (December 5-6) when Santa Claus will make a welcome return to Bowlees Visitor Centre in Upper Teesdale.

Aided by one of his elves, the man in red will be taking time out of his busy schedule to be the guest of honour at the centre’s Winter Wonderland event.

This is the third year the centre has been transformed into a seasonal sanctuary, providing respite from hectic shopping sprees and furious festive planning.

Kaye Jemmeson, from the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership, which runs the centre, said: “The weekend provides a more traditional and less frenzied alternative to the run up to Christmas – which can become overwhelming.

“During this weekend we want to get back to more relaxed celebrations.

“As well as a grotto for the children we’ll have loads of other of fun things to do, all of which will involve glue and glitter, as it should be at Christmas.

“And for older children and adults we have other craft activities, such as the wreath making workshops, which were really popular in previous years.”

The fun runs from 11am until 4pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Cafe1618@Bowlees will be serving seasonal treats including mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.

Booking to see Santa Claus is essential so please call 01388-528801 or visit visitbowlees.org.uk