Mumsnet Talk

Message withdrawn

We did Lapland UK and it was OK-ish. Kind of worth the money if you compare it with, say, going to the pantomime. I would guess however that it is not a patch on going to Lapland itself.

I have been to the real Lapland twice but not for a children themed holiday so can't comment on what you get for your money. I can comment however that Lapland itself is the real deal when it comes to an authentic white wildernesses and wooden chalets sparkling at night and dog sledges etc, etc. Very atmospheric place.

Message withdrawn

No - I would definately get something organised, I think you will be unlikely to find a Father Christmas without a package tour, which is the main point of the event...

Lapland is quite expensive anyway (drinks for example are the equivalent of UK cocktail bar prices, say) so I don't think you would save very much money once you add everything together - maybe you should google 'independant lapland' or something to see if anyone else has ever tried to do this.

Message deleted

Here's a good article

And more here and here. And here

and there's some cheaper deals here no idea if they are any good.

Am glad you asked this quesiton as I was plannign on doign a bit of research myself later in the year.

Form these reports it sounds as if the Lapland experience is just as touristy as the UK one, so far as the parents are concerned, though the kids in the articles seem to have been won over by the real lapland more.

I think staying overnight would be worth the extra cost (especially as you arrive just as the sun is setting).

Good point, Fio. They are definately not doing Bedgebury this year but apparantly looking for another site. So maybe the authenticity of the wood setting could be lost....

Message deleted

We went to the real Lapland, yes it was expensive but it was fantastic, we went for 3 nights but a friend of mine went for 1 day and seemed to enjoy it as much. Its truly magical to see all the snow, its gets dark really early which adds to the atmosphere, its cold and it was very believable, I was quite worried that it would be really fake.

Message withdrawn

Have booked a trip to Lapland today, oooohhh I'm just as excited as the children!

Message deleted

You're own personal stalker.

<beats self> your obv