The first time I put on the red suit at Whinfell Forest, I realised something: you don’t just play Santa here – for the children you meet, you are Santa.
A day in Santa’s Woodland Village
My day starts with the jingle of sleigh bells in Santa’s Woodland Village.
My suit, boots and beard are ready and waiting. I step into character, adjust my hat, and take a deep breath.
Some days are full from morning ‘til night, packed with visits, sleigh rides and stories by the fire.
Other days I join the fun just for an afternoon – which leaves time to enjoy a slow morning, run errands, or simply sip a coffee while the forest wakes up.
In the Woodland Workshop, the elves are already in full swing – their antics have me laughing.
One’s trying to balance a stack of presents taller than themselves, another’s perfecting their “elf wave” for the guests, and all of them are just as excited as the children they’re about to meet.
Then it’s show time. One minute I’m hearing a carefully recited Christmas list from a little one clutching their mum’s hand, the next I’m answering serious questions about reindeer flight paths.
At Brunch with Santa, I sit down at a table for a chat over pancakes, and somehow end up with chocolate sauce on my gloves. In the afternoon, I’m waving from my sleigh as the whole village sparkles with lights – and yes, my cheeks really are rosy (Cumbrian winters will do that).
The magic isn’t just for children
It’s not all about the little ones. Grown-ups love the magic just as much – you can see it in their smiles when they take the photo, or in the quiet way they watch their child’s face light up.
You don’t need years of acting experience or a perfectly round belly. You just need to be warm, friendly, and ready to bring the spirit of Christmas to life.
Center Parcs gives you the suit, the training, and all the support you need.
And the best bit? You get to be the guardian of tiny secrets – the whispered “I’m getting mummy a necklace” or “we’re leaving you an extra mince pie this year” – and carry them with you until Christmas morning.
This year, I’ll hang up my boots on Christmas Eve knowing I’ve been part of hundreds of magical memories. You could, too.
Your chance to join the magic
This is a fantastic opportunity to join one of the UK’s leading leisure and hospitality brands and be part of a fun, friendly team in beautiful forest surroundings.
Christmas is one of the busiest and most magical times of the year at Center Parcs, and this year our festive programme at Whinfell Forest is just as amazing as previous years.
We’re hiring Santas to be right at the heart of the festivities.
You’ll have your suit, boots and beard provided, along with full training and the support of a brilliant team of elves.
While certain festive positions require experience, most – including Santa – don’t.
If you have enthusiasm, warmth and a passion for making every day an adventure, we’ll provide the rest.
“It’s such a special role,” says Ailsa Higman, general recruitment manager at Center Parcs. “You’re not just wearing a costume – you’re creating an unforgettable experience for families.
“We’re looking for people who can bring warmth, energy and a little sparkle to every interaction.”
Santa roles at Center Parcs, Whinfell Forest
- Pay: £13.63 per hour
- Shifts: Part-time, fixed term until 24 December 2025
- Hours: Between 9am and 8pm, 5-10 hours per day, with weekend work on a rota
- Location: Center Parcs, Whinfell Forest (CA10 2DW)
Whether you’re a seasoned performer or simply someone who loves Christmas, this could be your most magical role yet.
Apply now at and help make this festive season unforgettable.
