Santa’s grotto lands at Manchester Airport station

Twinkling lights, excited chatter, and plenty of seasonal cheer filled the station as the children visited in two groups on Wednesday 10 December, each enjoying a sleigh-full of Christmas fun.

The day’s activities included meeting Father Christmas in his cosy grotto, decorating gingerbread, crafting reindeer food and baubles, creating colourful scratch-art designs, and listening to the enchanting tale of the reindeer story.

Pupils were also thrilled to spend time with TPE’s gentle therapy dog, Nya, whose friendly tail wags added an extra dose of joy.

The event was led by the dedicated team at Manchester Airport station, with fantastic support from colleagues across the business who helped bring the festive experience to life.

A particularly magical moment came when everyone gathered to switch on the Christmas tree lights together, sending a warm glow – and plenty of sparkle – across the station. Afterwards, pupils and staff rounded off their visit with festive refreshments, ensuring the celebrations ended on a merry and memorable note.

Paul Cunningham, Area Customer Experience Manager for TPE, said: “It was fantastic to see our Santa’s grotto come to life at Manchester Airport and to welcome pupils from Peel Hall Primary Academy to the station.

“Supporting our surrounding communities is incredibly important to us, and events like this are a wonderful way to share a little festive spirit with those nearby.”

Amy Tatham, Principal at Peel Hall Primary Academy, said: “Events like the Christmas Cracker have such a wonderful impact on our pupils.

“It is lovely to see them making special memories that will stay with them for years to come, and we are grateful to TransPennine Express for inviting us to be part of this year’s festivities.”