Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water has always been a big part of my life...

with my Dad working for them as a conservation manager for over 40 years until he retired. I remember going to see Santa myself with my parents at their Nelson offices as a small child (baby MOG at a Welsh Water Christmas pictured below), so you can imagine how thrilled we were when we were invited to the Brunch With Santa in the visitor center at Llandegfedd Reservoir.

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Firstly, I want to mention just how much there is to do at Llandegfedd. Set in the gorgeous Usk Valley we actually chose this area to visit for our first ever overnight stay when we bought our campervan. We visited the lake for the day and were blown away by what a hub it is for wellbeing and recreation.

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The lake is a purpose-built Watersport Centre and offers paddle and sail sports for all ages and abilities plus organised open water swimming. An array of land activities and events are also available throughout the year. You can go on beautiful walks, go fishing and even just sit and watch the wildlife. They have a lovely cafe in the visitors center on the waters edge with the most stunning views across the lake and it's always a treat for us to find a location that offer really incredible vegan food.

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When we arrived at Llandegfedd on Sunday, we had plenty of parking options including lots of disabled spaces for badge holders. The walk from the carpark down to the Lakeside Cafe has the most stunning views surrounding it - we stopped several times to take it all in.

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On entering into our Brunch with Santa, we were greeted by the loveliest staff - This is one thing that really stuck with me from this visit in particular, just how warm and engaging every single member of staff was. They went out of their way the entire time to make it all so special for us, and the other visitors. It's not often you get to such incredible customer service across the board.

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After a highfive from a cheeky elf, we were led to our table. Festively decorated and next to floor to ceiling windows with panoramic views across the water it was the ideal spot to enjoy some delicious food and look out for Santa - who was rumoured to be arriving in a very special way. And boy, he didn't disappoint.

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We had a variety of brunch dishes to choose from, and they were all wonderfully presented, and tasted SO good. My son went for the waffles with chocolate sauce and I opted for a Vegan cooked breakfast - which after my Mum's night out the previous evening, was welcomed with open arms! My Mum attended the event with us and chose smoked salmon with avocado. All were served with a hot or cold drink.

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When brunch came to an end, our new elf friend advised us to look out the window or to pop onto the outdoor balcony as a special guest was arriving...

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Coming across the lake on a speedboat, wearing a life jacket was the big man himself - My son thought this was the bees knees. So fun, and unique it was the first thing he spoke to me about when he woke up this morning.

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After Santa disembarked, he made his way up the path to the cafe waving up to a room full of excited families!

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Santa was truly fantastic. He spent a lovely amount of time at each table which gave it a real personal touch. He was super jolly, and made all the children laugh non stop - ideal for parents wanting a nice photograph! He presented each child with fabulous present.

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After his time at each table he sat in his Christmas grotto in the corner of the cafe, and families and children had another opportunity to speak with him and have their photos taken.

The sounds of childrens laughter filled the room, he was such a comic!

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As far as Christmas experiences go, my Mum and I both said that this one would be a fantastic yearly tradition. The venue is only twenty miles from Cardiff, it's reasonabily priced and you get a lot for that money. Also, if you want to see Welsh scenery in all its glory this is your location.

If you fancy your own special Brunch With Santa at Llandegfedd Lake you can purchase your tickets here

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Llandegfedd Lake is also offering an extra special treat for visitors requiring a more relaxed experience of Brunch With Santa this Christmas. For anyone who might benefit from subtle alterations to the atmosphere. Background noise will be minimised and Santa will moderate his usual exuberance. Visitors are free to move around or make a noise as they feel comfortable. Llandegfedd staff will be on hand to help if you need additional assistance which I think is absolutely fantastic, and often overlooked at Christmas events. You can get your tickets for this particular experience here

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And if that wasn't enough if you pop back and visit the center in January, kids can eat for free with every full priced adults meal!

A huge thanks again to all the lovely staff at Llandegfedd for this wonderful Christmas experience. We will definately be back!