Santa’s Grotto Brings Christmas Magic to Manchester Airport Station

TransPennine Express (TPE) brought festive cheer to Manchester Airport station this week as Santa’s grotto welcomed pupils from Peel Hall Primary Academy in Wythenshawe.

On Wednesday 10 December, two groups of excited children enjoyed a day of seasonal activities amid twinkling lights and the buzz of the holiday season. Highlights included meeting Father Christmas in his cosy grotto, decorating gingerbread, crafting reindeer food and baubles, creating colourful scratch-art designs, and listening to the magical reindeer story.

The pupils were also joined by TPE’s therapy dog, Nya, whose friendly presence added an extra layer of joy to the celebrations. The event was organised by the dedicated team at Manchester Airport station, supported by colleagues across the business to bring the festive experience to life.

A particularly memorable moment came when everyone gathered to switch on the Christmas tree lights, casting a warm glow across the station. The visit concluded with festive refreshments, leaving pupils and staff with happy memories of the day.

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.”

Image: TransPennine Express