An Immersive Festive Wonderland for Kids and Adults
Move over Glastonbury, there’s a new hotspot that has captured the hearts of families worldwide. Lapland UK, a six-week Christmas extravaganza, is the place to be this holiday season. Nestled in Swinley Forest on the Crown Estate in Ascot, this immersive experience offers an enchanting escape from reality until Christmas Eve.
Tickets in High Demand
Just like a music festival, Lapland UK experiences an unprecedented demand for tickets. Fans eagerly wait in virtual queues for months, hoping to secure their place in this magical wonderland. In March, a staggering 100,000 people anxiously queued online to book their spot. Within a single day, all 160,000 tickets were completely sold out. It’s clear that Lapland UK has become a highly sought-after destination.
A Celeb-Filled Affair
Lapland UK is no stranger to celebrity sightings. Over the years, famous faces such as the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Beckhams, Elton John, Jodie Whittaker, and Stacey Solomon have been spotted in this winter paradise. It’s not just the kids who are captivated by Lapland UK’s charm.
A Dream Turned Reality
Lapland UK was born out of love and disappointment. Former hedge fund trader Mike Battle and his wife Alison, an ex-teacher, founded this enchanting experience in 2007 when they struggled to find a satisfactory option for their four young boys. Even Lapland in Finland fell short of their expectations. However, their shared passion and determination led them to create Lapland UK, a place where dreams come true.
A Magical Journey
Once inside Lapland UK, visitors are transported into a world of immersive theatre and interactive performances. The 90-minute show captivates both young and old, paving the way for a visit to the bustling toy factory. Here, children have the opportunity to lend a helping hand to the hardworking elves as they build toys. Gingerbread decorating classes in the “Mother Christmas” Kitchen add an extra sprinkle of joy. And who can forget the unforgettable encounter with real huskies and reindeer?
More Than Just a Wonderland
Lapland UK goes beyond the immersive experience. Visitors can enjoy ice skating, explore various cafes, indulge in sweet treats at the post office and sweet shop, and even savor a delicious meal at the restaurant. Children are also presented with a husky soft toy from Father Christmas, a special gift from the toy factory, a thank you card, and a framed picture with the beloved Saint Nick. This extraordinary tour typically lasts around four hours, leaving unforgettable memories in its wake.
A Festive Empire
The Battles, the masterminds behind Lapland UK, have expanded their empire beyond the immersive wonderland. They have penned six books, including “The Untold Story of Father Christmas” and “The Secrets of the Christmas Elves,” captivating readers with their enchanting tales. Their podcast, Elfcasts, has also garnered a loyal following. With the future in mind, the Battles aspire to take Lapland UK worldwide, sharing the magic with families across the globe.
Overcoming Challenges and Spreading Joy
The COVID-19 pandemic presented its own set of challenges for Lapland UK. Adhering to social distancing guidelines and operating for a limited time, the Battles admit to facing financial difficulties, even stating that they “lost a fortune.” However, these hardships have allowed them to grow and expand their offerings. Furthermore, the Battles have established a charitable foundation with a noble mission: to provide every child spending Christmas Eve in a UK hospital with a stocking filled with love and joy.
For those lucky enough to secure tickets, Lapland UK promises an unforgettable Christmas experience. As the Battles continue to create magic and spread joy, their winter wonderland remains a beacon of hope and enchantment.