LaplandUK, a popular immersive Christmas experience, has announced plans to open a second location after the success of its Berkshire site, which often sells out months in advance. The new location in Cheshire will be similar to the original, which attracts 170,000 visitors annually. Co-founder Mike Battle has turned down offers from larger American companies in order to maintain creative and spiritual control of the business. While details about the new location are scarce, it typically takes around 50 days to build and 30 days to dismantle each year. The idea of opening a second site in Cheshire was first mentioned in 2015 in response to overwhelming requests from the public.
Tickets for LaplandUK typically go on sale in February or March and are in high demand, with families receiving an ‘Elf Passport’ upon arrival for the 4.5 hour immersive experience. Activities include building toys at the toy factory, decorating gingerbread with ‘Mother Christmas’, meeting reindeer and huskies, and concluding with a visit to Father Christmas. In addition to the main attractions, there is also an ice skating rink, sweet shop, restaurant, cafes, and a post office on site. Tickets for the 2024 season have already sold out, and the on-sale date for 2025 is typically announced in March. A number of celebrities have visited LaplandUK in the past, including Holly Willoughby, Elton John, and the Beckhams.
Visitors to LaplandUK have praised the attention to detail and immersive storytelling, likening the experience to something one would expect from a Disney park rather than a traditional visit to Santa. The woodland wonderland is meticulously decorated with tiny doorways for ‘small folk’, customised costumes for the elves, and personalized greetings for young visitors. The storytelling aspect has been commended by visitors, with one reviewer noting that even their cynical eleven-year-old was impressed by the experience. LaplandUK has built a reputation for providing a magical and enchanting Christmas experience that appeals to families and celebrities alike.
With plans to open a second location in Cheshire, LaplandUK looks set to expand its reach and offer more families the opportunity to enjoy its immersive Christmas experience. The decision to maintain creative and spiritual control of the business has allowed LaplandUK to preserve its unique charm and appeal, attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond. The success of the original Berkshire location, which consistently sells out, indicates a strong demand for this type of immersive, interactive Christmas experience. By continuing to focus on storytelling and attention to detail, LaplandUK aims to create lasting memories for families and visitors who flock to its enchanting winter wonderland.
Celebrities have also been drawn to LaplandUK, with famous faces such as David Tennant, Stacey Soloman, Rochelle Humes, and Abbey Clancy making appearances at the Christmas event. The stellar line-up of visitors underscores the widespread appeal of LaplandUK and its reputation for offering a magical and memorable Christmas experience. As plans for the new Cheshire location unfold, anticipation is building among fans of LaplandUK who are eager to see what new wonders and delights await at the second site. With its unique blend of storytelling, immersive activities, and festive charm, LaplandUK has carved out a special place in the hearts of families and celebrities alike who are drawn to its enchanting winter wonderland year after year.
