Sorry, I am about to mention the C word...(no, not that one)

[vapourtrail]

I am really sorry to mention Christmas when it is still flipping August, but I would really like to take my FC obsessed DC somewhere that felt really Christmassy and snowy in December, but I can't afford to do the Lapland thing. And I know that flights are just going to get more expensive if I don't book soon. Any one know of any where like that? Snowy, forresty, twinkly lights, white beards? Thanks!

Can I jump aboard your Christmas train? I'm over summer now, bring it on I say! I'm watching as I would like to do something similar this year.

Anywhere like that (including flights) will cost a fortune. How about Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, it's free to walk around obviously you have to pay for rides etc.

My friend from Dublin takes her daughter to "the cottage" near Newry every year. Really amazing Santa experience.

santascottage.co.uk/

My kids and I enjoyed this experience.

www.snowdome.co.uk/santas-winter-wonderland/

Oh yes, welcome aboard Moo I think you are probably right Love and flights anywhere are going to be ridiculous, but I was wondering if somewhere that is not as touristy but cold, like somewhere in eastern Europe (to be honest I've no clue, geography was never my thing)?

Thank you butterfly they look great!

Warwick Castle did an overnight stay last year that my friend did with her nieces and they all LOVED IT!

You could look at some of the Christmas markets in European cities such as Vienna, Berlin etc. They're not necessarily a cheap break (what is at that time of year?) but I'm sure you could shop around for flights and accommodation to see what suits your budget.

Lapland UK op!!

Tons of fake snow... Elf magic opens two huge doors onto extensive snowy world.. Inside are elf huts, santa workshops, ice rink , then endless little snowy paths (all in a real wood) to the man himself...

Perfect!

You could do a weekend (Friday to Monday) at a UK Center Parcs from just over £400. Still expensive though and you will need to pay extra for activities on top.

We have been for Christmas once and it was everything you asked for in your OP. Snowy, twinkly forest and a decent Santa holed up in a log cabin.

Oh thanks all! Great suggestions, will get looking!