BOLTON’S winter wonderland will open today.

The town centre has been transformed into a stunning festive scene, complete with an ice rink, Santa’s grotto, real reindeer, and a Christmas market.

A 200-square metre ice rink will take centre stage with 15 traders in wooden chalets selling quality goods, food, drink and gifts nearby.

Produce on offer includes Christmas themed cupcakes; luxury relishes and jams; artisan chocolate; and locally reared turkeys.

Some stalls will also be selling Christmas decorations, gifts and cards.

The market will be open on December 1 and 2, and will then open from December 6 to 9; December 13 to 16; and December 20 to 23.

Opening hours are Thursday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and 11am to 4pm on Sundays.

Children can also meet Father Christmas at a free Santa’s grotto on Victoria Square. The grotto will be open from December 1 until December 24. Opening times are Monday to Friday 12pm to 2pm and an additional slot of 5pm to 7pm on Thursdays.

Weekend opening hours are 11am to 3pm. Prior booking is not required.

And council chiefs have also organised a programme of free entertainment including Titan the robot, who will be performing in Victoria Square on December 2, at 12.30pm and 2.30pm.

Parking spaces in four multi-storey car parks — Bow Street, Deane Road, Topp Way and the Octagon — will be free all weekend and after 3pm on weekdays