SANTA Claus will be making his return to the Rivergate Shopping Centre from next weekend.

As of Saturday, November 23, Jolly Old Saint Nicholas will be within his grotto at the Irvine mall.

The popular festive figure will then be making further appearances at the centre for a number of weekends throughout November and December.

No booking is necessary for those planning to pay a visit, and entry to the grotto is free - however, organisers are asking for donations.

All money raised will be donated to the centre's partner charity, which is Cash for Kids Ayrshire.


The grotto will be open on the following dates and times:

  • Saturday November 23: 11am-3pm
  • Sunday November 24: 12-3pm
  • Saturday November 30: 11am-3pm
  • Sunday December 1: 12-3pm
  • Saturday December 7: 11am-3pm
  • Sunday December 8: 12-3pm
  • Saturday December 14: 11am-3pm
  • Sunday December 15: 12-3pm

Last entry to the grotto queue will be 2.15pm each day - to allow everyone in the queue to be seen by Santa.