A Glasgow shopping centre will host a Santa's Grotto and extend its opening hours for Christmas.

Santa Claus will visit Buchanan Galleries for the festive season to spread joy and Christmas cheer to children and their families. 

In partnership with Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, children of all ages can meet the jolly man in red and his cheerful elves, share their Christmas wishes and snap a keepsake photo.

(Image: Buchanan Galleries) Each child will receive a special gift from Santa himself and have the opportunity to tell him what they’re hoping to receive under the tree this year.

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The grotto will be open every weekend from Saturday, December 7 until Sunday, December 22 from 11am to 5pm along with December 23 and 24 to ensure little ones of Glasgow can make all of their last-minute requests.

It will be open from 10am to 1pm on December 24, Christmas Eve. 

Entry to the grotto is free, with the option to donate to Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity.

(Image: Buchanan Galleries) All proceeds will go to help fund state-of-the-art medical equipment and life-changing care in the children’s hospital in Glasgow.

Kathy Murdoch, centre director at Buchanan Galleries, said: “We’re excited to welcome Santa to Buchanan Galleries this year.

"Christmas is a wonderful time for families to come together, create cherished memories and enjoy the festive atmosphere, and we’re excited to play a part in spreading the holiday cheer while supporting a great cause close to our hearts and give back to our community. 

“The centre is now adorned in twinkling decorations once again and will come alive with festive activities.

"We can’t wait to see all the smiling faces at Buchanan Galleries over the festive season and wish everyone a very merry Christmas.”

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William McGowan, head of partnerships at Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Buchanan Galleries this Christmas. Santa’s Grotto not only brings joy to the families that visit but also helps to raise vital funds for young patients in Scotland’s busiest children’s hospital.

"Every donation makes a difference, and we truly appreciate the support from both Buchanan Galleries and the wider community during this festive season.”

Buchanan Galleries is also extending its Christmas hours from Saturday, December 7.

The centre will be open from 9am to 7pm from Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 6pm on Sundays from December 7 to 23.

On Christmas Eve, the centre will be open from 9am to 5pm and on Boxing Day (December 26) shoppers can browse bargains from 10am to 6pm. 

On Black Friday, November 29, visitors to Buchanan Galleries can also enjoy extended hours, from 9am to 7pm, as well as on Saturday, November 30.