Santa's grottoes face the axe as Harrods announces it will 'consider Government guidance' over whether they comply with social distancing

It is as much of a festive tradition as mince pies and the Queen’s message but children’s trips to see Santa will be very different for this year – if they happen at all.

Shops and garden centres are revising their Christmas plans – or deciding not to set up Santa grottoes at all – to comply with social distancing regulations because of the coronavirus crisis.

The rules mean there will be no hugging, no close-up photos or even being handed a present by Father Christmas, while retailers will also need to heavily restrict the numbers of youngsters being allowed in.

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Shops and garden centres are revising their Christmas plans – or deciding not to set up Santa grottoes at all – to comply with social distancing regulations because of the coronavirus crisis [File photo]

A spokeswoman for Harrods, which has staged a grotto for 65 years, said plans were under way ‘to create something special for Christmas’.

But she said a traditional grotto was unlikely in 2020, adding: ‘We will need to consider Government guidance later in the year.’

Garden centre chain Squires has also cancelled its usual Santa grottos and is instead planning an alternative ‘magical Christmas experience’.

Ian Wylie, chief executive the 200-member Garden Centre Association, said: ‘Meeting Father Christmas is a cherished and intimate event for children but with social distancing it is a huge challenge.’

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The rules mean there will be no hugging, no close-up photos or even being handed a present by Father Christmas, while retailers will also need to heavily restrict the numbers of youngsters being allowed in [File photo]