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Our magical trip to Lapland UK 2016

A few weeks ago I received an email inviting my family and I down to Lapland UK, and I’ll be honest with you, I very nearly declined the offer. Having never heard of Lapland UK until that point, and living four hours north of Ascot, my initial thought was “That’s a hell of a long drive for a Christmas grotto!”. But, after checking out the website and reading some of the reviews, I literally scrambled to my keyboard and typed out the hastiest of acceptances, realising that this was an opportunity not to be missed. Afterall, if it’s good enough for Elton John it’s good enough for us!!

“Now in its tenth year, award winning LaplandUK has entranced and captivated thousands of young children receiving national and international acclaim together with royal and celebrity patronage for its unique Christmas experience. Described by Mumsnet founder Carrie Longton as ‘the Rolls Royce of Christmas experiences’, LaplandUK is regularly featured on national TV and in the press and is widely regarded as the company putting the magic back into Christmas.”

Having received our booking confirmation I was able to go onto the website and fill out personal details for the children, complete with names, ages, any special friends, family members or specific events we wanted to include. It was the perfect opportunity for us to praise Eva for doing so well in school, Megan and Harry for being good at nursery and, although Lewis no longer believes in Father Christmas, he was more than happy to play along and I included his successes in football. And with that done, we were counting down the days.

The week before our visit we were sent out the children’s invitations, the most authentic looking letters, personalised with their names and informing them that they had been specially chosen by Father Christmas to visit Lapland this year. Their reactions were priceless, with Eva literally screaming with excitement, and I knew then that this was going to be a real lump in the throat kind of visit!

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On the day of our visit we set off in the early hours, making the four hour drive south, and it was hard to tell who was more excited. As we finally approached Lapland UK the children let out shouts of delight, “It’s a magic forest!” they told each other, “The elves will be waiting!” they screeched. As we parked the car we followed the signs to the entrance and as the fairy lights beckoned I felt a real sense of anticipation, like I was a child again, realising that there was something truly magical about this place.

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The entrance was something else, a beautifully lit foyer where the elves ticked off our names on Father Christmas’s list while music played and elves appeared, performing comical acts for the children as they fell about with laughter. While we waited for our tour to start we exchanged our money for jingle coins, the elf currency of Lapland, presented in a velvet pouch, and I love how this all added to the magic. As we stood waiting, the children’s eyes like saucers, they literally couldn’t contain their excitement and although they didn’t quite manage to stand nicely in the queue, instead choosing to “battle” each other with a discarded twig, nobody tutted or frowned or made us feel like lesser parents, and the elves simply found new ways to distract them and keep them entertained until it was time for our tour.

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Our tour began bang on time which was really impressive as with previous Father Christmas experiences, we’ve been known to queue for hours! As the day progressed I realised that everything here was planned like clockwork, from one activity to the next, everyone knew exactly what was happening minute by minute with a swift change-over for activities, and the organisation that must go into planning such a huge event stands to be admired. And when the doors swung open to reveal the woodland paths ahead, it felt as though we were stepping into Narnia, the audible “Oooohs” from the crowd as we all hurried through, everyone as excited as the next.

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Our first stop was a fairy lit woodland glen where we were greeted by one of the elves. As we sat around the stage he talked us through the story of Lapland, explained the reason for our visit and shared with us the secret that every little pine cone grows into one of Father Christmas’s elves. “I’ve got a pinecone at home!” Eva whispered to me, her little eyes lighting up, “I wonder if it’s going to grow into an elf?”.

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Yet again the doors were flung open and we hurried out onto snowy paths, every tree thick with snow, taking us to our next stop, the toy factory! The toy factory was everything you would imagine it to be, the attention to detail faultless, from the tools to the toys, even as far as a revolving turntable of wooden toys suspended above us on the rafters. It was exactly as a child would imagine a toy factory and not for the first time, I choked back tears as I saw the look of amazement on their little faces.

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The children were all seated while the elves explained that they needed a little help to get the toys ready in time for Christmas and would we be able to help them make a Rudolph soft toy followed by a wooden bear. Given the fact that my children hate participation of any kind, it was so lovely to see them raising their hand and joining in the cheers, “I can do it!!” Eva shouted, the biggest smile on her face. It was a little difficult for Harry and Megan to do on their own, at two and three they needed help, but Eva got stuck in and although Lewis was reluctant to sit there with the children, he stepped up to his role of big brother and showed them how it was done.

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After another walk along snowy paths, we arrived at Mrs Christmas’s kitchen where she and her elves greeted us and sat the children down for a story. Afterwards the children all had the chance to decorate a gingerbread man, again planned so meticulously with individual little hats and aprons, paintbrushes, sweets, icing and a paper bag to take it away in. Throughout I was impressed with how lovely and helpful the elves were, each member of the team clearly loving their job, playing their part and making sure that the children had the best day possible.

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From there we were led to my favourite part, the Elf Village. As we approached I could feel the excitement building, meandering along the paths, the sound of voices and laughter in the distance.

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Having read in reviews that the ice skating can get quite busy we headed straight for the rink, and yet within a couple of minutes we had our skates on and were on the ice without any need for queueing. The elves brought the children a penguin each to hold on to and they were off! That was a real moment for me, skating around the rink with all four of the children, their little faces flushed, big smiles on their faces, the fairy lights twinkling and the general buzz of excitement. It felt as though we had landed in our very own Christmas movie!!

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After half an hour on the ice we decided to explore the village and soon came across Mixie Pixie, the owner of the Village sweet shop. When I asked for directions to her shop she told us, “I can do better than that, I’ll walk you there myself!” and taking the girls by the hands she led us to the sweet shop, chatting to the children the whole way, steering them away from the more expensive boxes of chocolates and in the direction of the less expensive lollipops. “Those are my absolute favourite!” she told the girls when we left with a lollipop each, and they both beamed with admiration. “I like that girl lady!” Megan announced, and my heart could have burst!

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By the time we had explored the shops, posted a letter to Father Christmas at the post office, enjoyed the juggling skills of an elf, met the husky dogs, Hoot the owl and the most adorable little hedgehog, our time in the Elf village had flown and it was time for the grand finale…..our trip to meet Father Christmas!

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It made a huge difference to us that we’d had a good few hours for the children to “warm-up” before our Father Christmas visit. In previous years, when we’ve been thrown in at the deep end, the girls have screamed blue murder and hated every moment of it. But here at Lapland, by the time we came to wander along the fairy lit paths, the children had found their confidence and any previous worries and fears had long gone.

Soon we came across the reindeers, across a bridge to Father Christmas’s sleigh, laden with gifts ready for Christmas Eve,  and along to a wooden cabin where the elves rushed to greet us at arrival and, after taking our names, showed us to a seat.

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Within five minutes of waiting, somewhat impatiently, an elf came over, called the children’s names, and told us that she would take us to Father Christmas’s cabin. The children flocked to her and as we walked they slipped their little hands in hers and we followed her, just the six of us, through a maze of trees, in and out of the paths, speaking in hushed whispers as we quickened our pace.The elf told the children how Father Christmas was so excited to meet us, the excitement building with every step, and by the time we arrived at his wooden cabin, I have never seen the children so excited. As the door swung open we all rushed in, to be greeted by the most lovely, picture perfect scene, and the jolliest of Father Christmas’s.

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And although Lewis obviously knew it wasn’t real,  despite my protestations that it was, the children genuinely believed that this was Father Christmas, their mouths falling open as he spoke to them about their friends, mentioning our dog, their achievements in school, even asking Harry how his toy lamb Baa was doing! We’ve seen a lot of Father Christmas’s over the last twelve years but none as “real” as this one and the children were just mesmerised, their faces lighting up when he handed them a gorgeous, white husky dog each, no doubt the best present we have ever received from a visit to Father Christmas, and a beautifully illustrated book all about Lapland. And as we all smiled for a photo I knew that I would never forget that moment, the look on their faces, the twinkle in their eyes and the utter magic of it all.

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As we waved goodbye to Father Christmas it was time to go home and after picking up our free photo, and paying an extra £15 for another, we made our way back to the car, tired, weary but so happy at what a magical day we had shared.

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Lapand UK isn’t your average Christmas grotto, it’s so much more than just a quick hello with Father Christmas and a standard colouring book and crayons, and that is reflected in the price. Initially my eyes popped out of my head when I saw the cost, especially for us as a family of six, and the truth is we just couldn’t have afforded it under normal circumstances, and yet now, having experienced it first hand, I can see where every penny of that money goes. And honestly, if you’d have seen the look on my children’s faces you would agree, it was worth it, just for that alone. I know that in years from now, when we are old and grey, we will still talk about the Christmas of 2016 and our visit to Lapland UK and how utterly magical it was to see Christmas through the eyes of our children.

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If you’re wondering whether to book, doubting if it’s worth the money, the travel or whether your children are too old or too young, I would say do it, no doubt about it. From aged two to twelve my children had the time of their lives and the only negative thing about Lapland UK is that it has totally spoilt us for future Christmas’s, as never again will we be able to stand in a busy shopping centre, queuing with the masses, to see Santa and his polyester beard. If  I could have one wish this Christmas it would be to have this day, over and over again, every year with my children, until one day they make that journey with children of their own.

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 If we didn’t already believe in the magic of Christmas, then more than ever, we do now!

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ethannevelyn

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111 Comments

  1. I actually have no words. It made me a little emotional reading about the way you have described the delight of your children, and in turn, your delight as well! The photos are gorgeous and if Alfie was old enough I’d definitely be booking for next year! I hope we can go in a few years when he’ll really appreciate it, but I do dread that like you, I’d feel like we had to go every year as nowhere would compare!! A wonderful review.
    Something About Baby recently posted…Times to Treasure: Week 15My Profile

    1. Thank you, it really was amazing, I feel emotional every time I think about their little faces. It’s definitely somewhere to save up for, even as a one time visit, but once you’ve been you’ll be desperate to go back!! xx

    1. It really was the best way to start our Christmas celebrations, I’m more than ready for it now! xx

  2. OMG this looks brilliant and I LOVE your pictures of your beautiful family. I’m so glad you went. The attention to detail is amazing and I can see where they were all enraptured. What an experience. I’m also glad they went to Santa as he can be a bit scary eh? Magical post and thanks for sharing with #bestandworst x
    Sarah Howe @runjumpscrap recently posted…Best and Worst Week #76My Profile

    1. Thanks Sarah, it really was amazing, I felt like a child again just taking it all in. It’s really kick started our Christmas celebrations in the best possible way! xx

  3. This is just absolutely stunning – it brings it all back, and made me well up a bit reading! Megan is adorable – “I love that girl lady” is hilarious! Your photos are stunning and just capture it all so perfectly. I’m so pleased you all had such a wonderful day – I know it’s one I’ll remember forever too! #BloggerClubUK
    Katy – Hot Pink Wellingtons recently posted…An exciting announcement!My Profile

  4. This looks and sounds like so much fun! We are definitely going next year! Unless I can persuade Hubby to take us this year…. I want one of those penguins! My two aren’t great at participating but I suspect they would jump into all of this!
    #BloggerClubUK
    Kirsty – Winnettes recently posted…Parents vs. The InternetMy Profile

    1. It was the most magical day of our lives, we genuinely have never shared anything so lovely together. xx

  5. My gosh it looks magical! We are desperate to but I’ll admit the price put me off. However looking at your gorgeous pics and what you’ve said has made me realise it would be worth it x

    1. I honestly believe it’s worth it. I would never have dreampt of paying that amount before we went, I was gobsmacked, but you can just see where the money goes and for the experience, and the gifts they receive, it’s well worth it. We would go back in a heartbeat! xx

  6. I’ve seen a few other posts about this and each one makes me quite envious. It looks like an amazing experience. I will definitely look at taking my daughter when she’s older. I love the pictures of your children – the girls especially look so excited. They must have really enjoyed it. I bet they are really looking forward to Christmas now 🙂 #CoolMumClub
    Angela Watling recently posted…What Little H did – 22 monthsMy Profile

  7. Laura this looks AMAZING. Ive read lots of reviews about it but your photos just SELL IT to me. They are bloody amazing!!! I think Lapland need to buy these pics from you from their website! #Sharingthebloglove
    Hayley Mclean recently posted…Me & Mine In NovemberMy Profile

    1. Aww thank you Hayley. It really was amazing, I don’t think I’ve heard anyone say anything less! But yes, if Lapland want to buy these photos they would certainly have a price, hah! xx

  8. Wow! I am soooo jealous! This looks like the most amazing Christmas trip EVER!I’ve read a couple of these reviews this year but yours captures the magic so beautifully, and I had no idea there was so much else to the day rather than just seeing Santa. #SharingTheBlogLove

    P.S. If any of the elves are reading this, I would very much like an invite next year! 😉
    Lucy At Home recently posted…Bravissimo: Get Ready To PartyMy Profile

  9. Fabulous we are so excited to go on Wednesday hoping my 11 month enjoys it as much as his brother really can’t wait looks magical

    1. Hey, just trawling the comments wondering whether to go this year or hang on another so my youngest can join in a little more…
      How was the day with an 11 month old?! My daughter isn’t walking yet and will be 17 ish months by December, shall I hold out until she’s that year older?! My oldest is 6..?!? Opinions please as unfortunately it’s not something we will be able to afford to do twice 🙂

      1. I think if it’s something you will only do once I would recommend waiting until your daughter was old enough to really enjoy it. Harry was 2 last year when we went but a confident walker and able to join in with ice skating and running along the paths to Father Christmas. Perhaps next year she will get more out of it? xx

  10. Sounds really magical. Christmas is my favourite time of year. I’d love to take my girls here. Looks like the perfect day!

  11. Oh WOW Laura! This looks absolutely incredible! I have been dying to read this since I saw your instagram pictures. If ever there were a beautiful family to showcase a beautiful event it’s yours – well done. Stunning photos, as always.
    Thanks so much for making the whole of #coomumclub green with envy! xx
    MMT recently posted…#coolmumclub Linky week 47My Profile

    1. Ahh thanks lovely, we had an absolutely amazing day there, I feel so lucky that we were able to take the children there, their little faces just made my entire year! xxx

  12. Take me there now!! It looks amazing! I’m on maternity at the moment. It’s a tough time and I think my youngest is far too young to appreciate it so next year or the year after I have to take them! Your photos are beautiful xx
    Jemma Anglesea recently posted…Christmas Party CrisisMy Profile

    1. Thank you, it’s definitely worth going, even if just once. It’s such a magical experience!! xx

  13. Ok confession time – I got a bit teary reading this. It sounds like the most fantastic and magical day out for the whole family, and it’s just not something that is on offer around here. I’m glad you and your little ones (and Lewis!) had such a lovely time and that the magic of christmas is going to be very much alive this year in your house #picknmix
    OddHogg recently posted…Our Favourite Five – November 2016My Profile

    1. Ahh thank you lovely. It was so lovely to have a little magic in our lives, we really needed that boost at the moment. I was teary the whole day, there’s nothing as lovely as seeing your children enjoy Christmas! xx

  14. The more I read about this place, the more I want to go next year with Ben. The attention to detail and friendliness of all staff makes the extortionate cost totally worth it!
    By the way your eldest is so photogenic, that photo of him alone is one for the wall!
    #sharewithme

    1. Thank you so much, he’s a gorgeous boy, inside and out. Lapland is expensive but honestly, it’s worth it! xx

  15. This post made me cry. It has been quite a week and the magic and wonder of this just made me feel so warm and like Christmas had finally arrived. What an amazing experience. I wish we lived in the UK. I’d love to bring my boys!!! #POCOLO
    Catie recently posted…Friday Focus: LeidenMy Profile

    1. Ahh I cried countless times over the day, it was just so emotional and completely amazing seeing the children enjoying it. xxx

  16. This is really a magical Santa’s Wonderland. I love the pictures of your beautiful family, especially the one that caught you having a blast of laughter with your little girl! They are all totally entranced! Great pix and great fun. You guys deserve such holiday cheer! Warms my heart! <3 #FabFridayPost
    Lisa Pomerantz recently posted…Taciturn Thursday? My Explorer KidsMy Profile

    1. It’s the most magical place, the children are still talking about it and probably always will! xx

    1. Aww it’s fab isn’t it? I think mine will be the same, they haven’t put them down since they got them! xx

  17. This looks truly amazing will checking this out for next year fantastic read as usual love the way you write the photos are brilliant Thanks for linking to the #THAT FRIDAY LINKY come back next week please

  18. Wow! This post absolutely rock my Christmas World! Such a magical time to treasure. Thank you so much Laura for sharing with us on #FabFridayPost xx

    1. It’s amazing, the whole experience spans over so much more than one day. My children will never forget it that’s for sure! xx

  19. What an enchanting experience. I’m always cautious of Lapland experiences. I remember hearing last year about a Lapland experience that was totally hideous! This one on the other hand sounds epic. Thanks for linking up with us #FabFridayPost

    1. I couldn’t fault it Sarah, I genuinely feel as though they thought of everything. It was such a magical day and the children are still on cloud nine! xx

  20. Stunning photos – we went last year and it is still one of our fondest memories. Again, for us it’s a long way but it was so worth the trip and we’d so love to go back. Not sure anything other than the real Lapland would compare to be honest. Thanks for linking to #sharewithme
    Mummy Fever recently posted…Turn your TV into a jukeboxMy Profile

    1. I agree, and even then I’ve seen photos of the real Lapland and other than the snow is real, it is SO similar! xx

  21. Wow this sounds amazing! I had no idea this even existed, but I’m still a fairly new-ish mum haha. The woodland area looks wonderful and it sounds like the people were really nice as well…Mixie Pixie sounds like a great character! Your photos are absolutely gorgeous of you and your family, looks like you all had such a great experience. Even Lewis who helped the younger ones make the toys! So sweet : ). Thanks so much for sharing with #StayClassyMama! I will have to do this once Bear is older!

    1. I had no idea about it either and I’ve been a mum for 12 years! It really was amazing, it’s one of those moments you wont ever forget! xx

  22. Sat here in tears! Im such an emotional wreck when it comes to my kids and/or christmas. We’ve just booked our first visit to Lapland UK for christmas eve this year and i can’t wait. My husband was very dubious about spending all that money but i won him over by reminding him that our oldest daughter is 9 and already asking questions about the reality of it all. I am a christmas fanatic and if its at all possible, thanks to your blog, I am incredible excited already this year. Thank you, Joanne

    1. Ahh that’s so lovely of you to say Joanne, thank you so much. I can promise you that you won’t be disappointed, the look on your children’s face will be priceless! I still tear up when I think about our day there, the children are still talking about it almost a year on, remembering every little detail and asking will we go again this year. Thankfully we are!! This time Im going to record it so when we look back we will be able to see their little faces! Have the most wonderful time, take lots of photos, and let me know whether you love it as much as we do!! xxx

      1. Great idea! I often watch home movies of Christmas morning & birthdays… it’s so special cause they grow up so quickly. Enjoy your 2nd visit… can’t wait to read all about it. X

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