Celebrate the magic of Christmas
Festive shopping, dining and family fun for all
Where festive shopping, delicious dining, and family fun come together for a truly joyful season!
From ticking off your Christmas list and visiting Santa’s Grotto to enjoying late-night shopping, seasonal treats, and entertainment at Vue, Hollywood Bowl, and AirHop, discover everything you need to make magical memories and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in Thanet.
What’s on this Christmas?
Santa’s Grotto
28 November – 24 December | Outside Hollywood Bowl
Step into a twinkling world of festive wonder as Father Christmas returns to Westwood Cross! Little believers can share their Christmas wishes, explore a cosy grotto sprinkled with magic, and take home a special gift from Santa.
Tickets are £7.50 plus a small booking fee and include a magical visit and a gift. Adults go free with a paid child ticket. Walk-ins are welcome when capacity allows, but booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Festive Market
15 November – 24 December
Soak up the festive atmosphere and step into a winter wonderland at our Christmas Market. Our traditional wooden cabins are simply bursting with seasonal gifts, handcrafted jewellery, delicious food and unique festive finds from local traders.
Plus, enjoy tasty seasonal snacks from our food and drink stalls around the centre, including Beach Treatsand Yankee Doodle Donuts, alongside our Main Mall and Harbour Wall promoters.
Join us for festive shopping, treats and cheer all season long!
Shop the season
Whether you’re on the hunt for thoughtful gifts, sparkly stocking fillers or festive fashion, you’ll find it all at Westwood Cross.
For sweet treats, head to All Sorts of Sweets and Treats, Hotel Chocolat and M&S. Fashion lovers will adore the festive collections at New Look, River Island, Next and Primark. Beauty and fragrance fans will find plenty to choose from at Boots, Superdrug, The Perfume Shop and our soon-to-open Rituals store.
For books, gifts and stationery, visit The Works, Waterstones and WHSmith. If you’re looking for something special, Warren James and H. Samuel have the sparkle sorted – don’t forget that Pandora is opening soon, too!.
JD Sports and Footasylum are perfect for the sports enthusiasts on your list, and Skechers will be opening shortly. Lastly, remember to pick up cards and wrapping essentials at Clintons!
Festive feasting
From seasonal snacking to Christmas party venues, you’re spoilt for choice at Westwood Cross.
Enjoy festive drinks and treats at Caffè Nero, Coffee Corner, Costa Coffee, Greggs, Starbucks and Subway – all serving seasonal sandwiches, cakes and the must-have Christmas cups.
For festive meals with friends and family, Ask Italian and Riparo Lounge are ideal for relaxed celebrations, while Thai Village offers Asian feasts and winter cocktails to warm you on a cold day.
Not feeling the festive food? That's ok – we've got you covered! Make your way over to our newly opened Captain D's for a taste of the states.
Spread the joy!
Christmas is all about spending time together, and at Westwood Cross there are plenty of ways to make magical memories.
Catch the latest blockbusters and festive family favourites at Vue, or enjoy friendly competition at Hollywood Bowl. For energetic fun, head to AirHop Westwood Cross, where you’ll find trampolines, laser tag, giant inflatables, Robokeeper, Strike Arena and more. Affordable family tickets and party packages make it easy to celebrate without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re 7 or 87, you’ll leave with a big smile on your face – and memories that last well beyond Christmas.
Christmas opening hours
This festive season, Westwood Cross will be open later than usual to help you make the most of your Christmas shopping, dining, and celebrations.
From Monday 15th December, enjoy late-night shopping until 8pm, giving you even more time to tick off your Christmas list and soak up the festive atmosphere. There will also be special opening hours throughout Christmas week, so be sure to check our opening times page before you visit to plan ahead.
Please note, some retailers may trade earlier or later than the centre’s advertised hours – check individual brand websites for full details. Some restaurants will also be open on Christmas Day, so don’t forget to check their opening times before booking.
