Ludlow is a beautiful market town in Shropshire, which has everything you could want, from regular food festivals to historic sites and stunning countryside walks
Isobel Pankhurst Audience Writer and Chloe Dobinson
Those seeking a peaceful escape from Britain’s bustling cities should consider Ludlow, a picturesque market town in Shropshire that offers everything from regular food festivals to historic landmarks and breathtaking countryside walks. Whilst sometimes overshadowed by neighbouring Shrewsbury and Hereford, Ludlow remains an essential destination for anyone visiting the region.
From its medieval castle and museums to restaurants housed in ancient halls and pubs within 16th-century buildings, Ludlow’s rich heritage is proudly showcased throughout. The castle dates back to the Norman Conquest and ranks among the “finest medieval ruins” in Britain, according to the Ludlow Castle website.
Given its location near Wales, Ludlow Castle served a crucial function during the English-Welsh conflicts. In 1223, King Henry III and Welsh prince Llywelyn ap Iorwerth held peace negotiations at the fortress.
Throughout history, Ludlow Castle has housed many prominent personalities, including Roger Mortimer, who joined forces with Queen Isabella to depose her husband, Edward II, in 1327.
During the 15th century, Edward IV frequently visited Ludlow and established a governing council there to oversee his Welsh territories.
Edward IV also dispatched his sons, the future King Edward V and his brother Prince Richard, to reside at the castle. The brothers would subsequently become infamous as the Princes in the Tower, after they vanished from the Tower of London in 1483, reports the Express.
Ludlow Castle also holds profound historical significance as the place where Prince Arthur died in 1502, a tragedy that ultimately paved the way for his younger brother to ascend the throne as King Henry VIII.
Since the Civil War, Ludlow Castle has gradually crumbled into ruins, though much of its impressive exterior remains intact, making it well worth exploring.
Another must-see attraction is St Laurence’s Church, which, like the castle, traces its origins back to the Norman invasion. As Shropshire’s largest parish church, St Laurence’s has earned the nickname “Cathedral of the Marches”.
Those seeking outdoor relaxation can visit Ludlow Millennium Green or enjoy a walk along the Mortimer Trail, a long-distance footpath stretching from Ludlow to Kington on the Herefordshire-Wales border.
No trip to Ludlow would be complete without stopping at the renowned Ludlow Farm Shop, which promises a “one-of-a-kind” shopping experience, according to the town’s official website.
The town regularly plays host to Antique, Local Produce and Craft Markets. It’s worth checking the Ludlow Market website before your visit if you fancy attending any of these events.
As the festive season approaches, families will be delighted to learn that Santa will be taking up residence at Ludlow Castle from 6 to 23 December, giving children the chance to enjoy a magical encounter with Father Christmas in the castle’s stunning grotto.
A day out at a theme park isn’t just a summer activity. Many parks will be open for Christmas-themed fun, and you’ll find fun, festive activities to suit all ages
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Theme parks such as Drayton Manor will be decked out for Christmas(Image: Drayton Manor)
Looking for a festive day out for all the family? Many theme parks will be opening their doors for the Christmas season with a range of activities for all the family. In addition to themed days out, some parks will also be offering special short breaks, with extras such as Santa visits and evening entertainment and even the chance to enjoy a festive-themed sleepover at the on-park hotels. Here’s a round-up of some of the most popular theme parks in the UK and what they’ll be offering this November and December.
Alton Towers – Magical Days Out
From £18 per person
In the run up to Christmas and the New Year, Alton Towers offers Magical Days Out starting at just £18 per person. While it’s a cheaper way to visit the park, it’s worth noting that only CBeebies Land and Mutiny Bay are open, plus a couple of the bigger rides, so you don’t expect all the usual thrill rides to be available.
However, the park is set to be decked out in festive decorations, and visitors can enjoy Christmas-themed shows such as Hey Duggee Live: The Christmas Badge!, which is bound to be a hit with the younger members of the family.
Families can also book a Santa Sleepover at one of the park’s on-site hotels, starting at £91 per person. This includes a one-day theme park ticket, a visit to Santa’s grotto, a traditional pantomime, and a festive dinner and entertainment for the whole family. Booking the Santa Sleepover also gives you access to the on-site waterpark and crazy golf.
Three of Gulliver’s theme parks will be offering Christmas events: Rotherham, Milton Keynes, and Warrington, with a selection of Christmas rides and attractions open during this time. What’s available over the festive period varies by park, and some of the activities on offer include festive breakfasts, Santa’s grottos, Christmas shows, Elf workshops, and more, with a variety of packages available.
Each park will also have a Land of Lights attraction – a spectacular light trail that opens during the winter. Tickets for this attraction are sold separately and start at £13.75 per person.
Drayton Manor say they’ve unwrapped their “biggest and most magical Christmas plans ever”. The Midland-based park, which is best-known for being the home of Thomas Land, will open on selected dates from November 22 to December 31 with most of the park’s rides open.
There will also be a range of themed attractions for family days out. Fans of Elf on the Shelf can enjoy Elftoria, with the cheeky creatures taking over the park and adding a mischievous touch to your day. Children can even take part in pranking workshops and enjoy a live elf show.
Kids can visit the Castle Grotto, which will include a story-time experience with Mrs Claus and a visit to the man in red, while Thomas Land will be decked out in seasonal decorations and have festive family shows. In the evening, families can board the Twinkling Express, a gentle journey surrounded by Christmas light trails.
Paultons, perhaps most famous for being the home of Peppa Pig World, will be turning their park into a Christmas wonderland. On selected dates through December, visitors can visit Peppa and friends in their festive clothing, enjoy Santa’s Christmas Wish show, or enjoy festive-themed menus in the park’s cafes.
If you prefer thrill rides, the Tornado Springs are will be also be open as well as selected rides in Lost Kingdom and Critter Creek.
Chessington’s Christmas village ticket will include a selection of the park’s rides, as well as access to the zoo and SEA LIFE centre. Visitors will be able to enjoy a Christmassy silent disco, wander through a snowy trail, and see the elves making toys in their workshop. Of course, there’s also a visit to Santa to give him your Christmas list.
Visitors can stay for longer by booking the on-site Safari or Azteca Resort Hotel, and there’s even a range of VIP experiences that can be added onto your package to create unique Christmas memories. Book an elf wake up call, with a small pre-Christmas gift for the kids, or take part in a reindeer encounter and see Santa’s helpers up close.
But the fun doesn’t stop once January comes round. Chessington now offer a themed Christmas Room, which will be a permanent fixture in their hotel year-round. No matter when you visit, you’ll be able to enjoy a decorated tree, Christmas crackers, hot chocolate, and even a decorated Christmas parking space. It’s perfect for the Christmas obsessive in your life.
If you’re looking for a great day out for the whole family this winter, we’ve got you covered
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The most wonderful time of the year is almost upon us… Why not meet Father Christmas himself at Lapland UK’s debut Cheshire event?
Lapland UK
After incredible success in the south of England, Lapland UK is coming to Cheshire this year – HOORAY! – and we cannot wait. A truly magical experience from start to end, as the name suggests the event is designed to transport visitors to Lapland, the home of Father Christmas. With incredible attention to detail, dazzling decor, mesmerising costumes, and a truly magical feel throughout, it really is core memory territory. It’s also as close as one can get to hopping on a plane to Lapland itself. Believe me, at times you’ll feel as if you’re actually there. During their visit, children (and their grownups!) can help elves make toys, have a go at ice skating, meet Father Christmas himself – and so so much more. Running between 13th Nov and the 24th Dec, Lapland UK is currently sold out BUT tickets do become available regularly through the returns portal though so it’s always worth keeping an eye out here just in case. Prices start from £60 per person.
East Lancashire Railway Santa Specials
All aboard the Santa steam train! Days out don’t get more magical than taking a trip on the East Lancashire Railway Santa Special Service. Get into the festive spirit with a mince pie as the train chugs along through the Great British countryside, with some very special guest appearances along the way. Presents are given to the kids, while grown ups can enjoy a Baileys. There are carols and music too – it’s just magical. The service, which sets off from Bolton Street Station, Bury, runs until Christmas Eve, with prices from £22.50 per person. New for this year, on 22, 23 and 29 November, ELR is also putting on a Santa Special train specially designed for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), with a quieter overall experience and a calm carriage.
Glow at RHS Bridgewater
Embrace the dark evenings and wander through the magical Glow light show with a mulled wine or hot chocolate. RHS Bridgewater will be lit up this December, with twinkles and sparkles adorning pathways, trees and bushes. It’s a real winter wonderland that the whole family will enjoy. Tickets are available from 4.30pm – 9pm, until December 30. Prices for members start at £8.25 for adults and £4.50 for children. Non-member prices start from £13.50 for adults and £7.25 for children. Under-fives go free.
Yuletide at Tatton Park
Take a walk through the world of winter folklore at Tatton Park and join in their Yuletide celebrations, with music, performance, puppets and a glittering light trail to enjoy. There will be marshmallows to roast around the fire, hot chocolate to drink and magical characters to meet, along with stories from a traditional teller. An unmissable, unforgettable, ethereal experience for the whole family. From the 15th November until 23rd December, off peak tickets (15th, 23rd, 30th Nov) cost £19 for adults and £11 for children (under twos go free), and standard tickets cost £22 for adults, £12 for children, and under twos go free.
Dunham Massey Christmas Light Trail
An enchanting after-dark experience is perfect for the whole family, this year’s Light Trail at beautiful Dunham Massey is set to be the best yet. Visitors will explore the enchanting grounds of Dunham Massey after dark, meeting the parkland’s resident deer, and marvelling at the sites 500 year old oak tree. Pause for pictures at the 30-metre-long Christmas Cathedral, marvel at new installation – ‘Tis The Season’ – which brings seven giant neon baubles to the estate’s majestic trees, enjoy Shatter, a striking collection of 50 illuminated shards up to four metres high, and delight at Fish are Jumping, a playful series of 20 leaping fish. The event runs from Friday 14 November to Saturday 3 January. Off-peak tickets are £19 for an adult, £12.50 for a child with family tickets (2 Adults & 2 Children) starting from £40. Standard tickets are £27.50 for adult, £18.50 for a child, with family tickets (2 Adults & 2 Children) starting from £60.
Christmas at the Trafford Centre
There’s plenty to enjoy at the Trafford Centre this Christmas! First up, kicking off proceedings on Nov 15th is the Christmas Parade, running from 11.30am til 2.30pm and featuring a whole host of Christmas characters – including Santa himself! Then, back for another year from Nov 22 til Dec 24, is the Trafford Centre’s beloved Grotto, where children can meet Santa himself. This year, little ones are invited on a top-secret toy-making mission as Santa prepares to launch the very first Giggle Gizmo — a magical super toy centuries in the making! Tickets cost £27 for children, which includes a gift. Adults cost £9.50. Elsewhere, there is plenty to keep families of all ages busy, from a glittering ice rink to a festive fairground. There’s lots to eat and drink too.
Oaks On Ice at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks
Making Christmas shopping magical, this year sees the launch of Oaks On Ice, a gorgeous ice skating rink and festive experience for the whole family. Elsewhere you’ll find festive food, drinks and treats on offer, as well as music and entertainment to enjoy. Launching on October 24th, tickets start from £12.50 for adults, £9.50 for children aged four and up, and £36 for families.
A Decade Of Magic at King St Townhouse
This winter sees King Street Townhouse celebrate its 10th birthday, with a whole host of Christmassy things to enjoy. First up, there’s the Festive Afternoon Tea, launching on 17th November and starting at £35pp, with nostalgic artisanal handmade desserts (an eggnog and clementine macaron, a mulled winter berry roulade topped with a miniature gingerbread man, and a rich Belgian chocolate and pistachio tart. Elsewhere, in the hotel’s gorgeous spa, visitors can enjoy the Decad’ant Ritual, a new limited-edition treatment available throughout November and December. This restorative experience begins with two hours of blissful relaxation in the thermal suite before a 60-minute ‘Comfort and Glow’ treatment, with facial and scalp massage. Finally, cosy up for some classic Christmas films (think Love Actually and Home Alone) in the Screening Room from 15th November to 24th December. Tickets start at £15pp.
City Centre Christmas Markets
Manchester’s Christmas Markets will open across the city on Friday 7 November and close on Monday 22 December. And this year will see the reopening of a section of Albert’s Square, with A Taste Of Christmas – jam packed with tasty food, drink and treats to enjoy, as well as crafts to buy. The square will also be home to a huge ferris wheel, giving breathtaking views of Manchester’s Town Hall. As well as Albert Square, you’ll find stalls at Piccadilly Gardens, Market Street, Cathedral Gardens, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street. Exchange Square, King Street and The Corn Exchange.
Bar Hütte
A seasonal alpine-ski themed Christmas pop up venue in Great Northern, this season Bar Hütte will play host to cosy karaoke booths, and festive events like wreath-making mornings and Santa meet-and-greets. A wonderful meeting place for all ages, there’s plenty to enjoy throughout winter. For groups of friends, and colleagues looking for an after-work social, guests can look forward to a bustling atmosphere under the twinkling lights too. Expect live music performed by local musicians and DJ’s, oven-baked pizzas and Bombardinos; an Italian mountain classic of warm rum, cream & cinnamon shot, served topped with whipped cream.
A visit to Lapland to see Father Christmas is just a pipedream for most people, with a short stay generally costing thousands – but there is a far cheaper way to experience the magic of the snowy wonderland without breaking the bank
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There is a cheaper way to enjoy the festive delights in Lapland(Image: Getty Images)
Whether you want to admit it or not, Christmas really is on its way and it will be here sooner than you think.
Your flip flops may still be lingering redundant at the front door in the hope of some warm autumn sun but they’ll be joined by hats and scarfs very soon, which you’ll be throwing on to rush out and get those last minute Xmas gifts.
If you’ve always hoped one of them would be to take the kids (or just yourself) to Lapland to see the big fella in his homeland, but never believed you could afford it – there is a much less costly way to make those childhood festive dreams of a trip of a lifetime come true.
The Santa Village and the Arctic Circle in Northern Finland is where Santa has lived for centuries and is a top destination for those in search of the all round festive experience. The village in Rovaniemi is open every day of the year but many prefer to go during the Christmas period.
We took a look at costs for a family of four to stay at the village itself for two nights during December and it’s fair to say most families would be priced out.
The family suite (double bed and a sofa bed and armchair bed) was the only option available with the cheaper cottages having sold out. It came in at around £1,683 for both nights.
For anyone who wants to splash out even more there is a villa which can be rented in its entirety or it’s also possible to rent half of it as an apartment. The smaller of the two apartments comes in at just over £13,000 in total for four people staying two nights on December 15 and 16.
Admittedly the accommodation appears to be the height of luxury and includes breakfast. There’s even the option of a private chef preparing it for you for £262 extra per morning if you can’t be bothered to pop your bread in the toaster yourself.
Father Christmas himself will even make a VIP private visit to the apartment for around 30 minutes but he doesn’t come cheap either, he’s a busy man after all. You’ll have to fork out around £778 if you want Santa on your sofa.
Return flights with Syscanner from London Gatwick to Rovaniemi on 15 December – 17 December come in around £862 in total for reasonable times but still won’t land until 18.10 on the first night. Obviously you’ll pay more for kinder flight times that don’t involve getting up or home in the middle of the night.
If you went for the cheaper option for flights and accommodation you would be looking at a total cost of £2,545 or £13,862 for the high end apartment. These estimates DON’T include travel to and from the airport or the cost of any meals, refreshments or added extras such as husky or reindeer sled rides (the luxury apartment includes breakfast).
However those wishing there was a cheaper way to enjoy the winter wonderland, could consider arranging alternative accommodation and adding in an extra festive experience that will also save money. It is generally cheaper to fly to Helsinki from the UK. We found an early morning flight leaving Gatwick for £218 in total for four passengers on the same date, again via Skyscanner.
Once there you can pick up the overnight Santa Express (sadly he doesn’t actually drive the double decker train), which runs from Helsinki to snow-capped Lapland in the north.
The journey takes approximately 12 hours which means you can really relish the beauty of the Finnish landscape as you head towards Father Christmas. If you’re lucky you may even get to marvel at the natural stunning phenomena of the Northern Lights which are often visible here before being rocked off to sleep, waking up in the Arctic Circle the next morning.
This option combines travel and the first night’s accommodation in one, making it so much cheaper all round. Standard sleeper cabins start from £43 and cabins with showers start from £65. It is advised to book early and directly through the Finnish national rail company VR.
Recent travellers on the Santa Express have shared their experiences on Tripadvisor, where the train has a 4.2 rating: “This overnight train ride was a fun and unique way for our family to travel to Lapland. It added to the excitement of our trip and gave us a chance to relax before arriving in Rovaniemi,” one wrote. “We would recommend it to families looking for an authentic Finnish travel experience.”
Another family were also pleasantly surprised: “The rooms/cabins exceeded our expectations. Admittedly, we had concerns about selecting this mode of transport between Helsinki and Rovaniemi but we were looking forward to a new experience. It really did help establish a festive feeling as we embarked on our first trip to Lapland,” they shared.
Once you arrive in Rovaniemi you can head straight to the Santa Village, where entry is free. There’s not even a charge to meet the man himself in his big red house but prepare for queues at busy periods. Added extras such as a picture with him will come with a price tag though.
The Arctic Circle runs through the village and you can cross it in the central square – again totally free. Make some lifelong memories by taking your own pictures of the family jumping or hopping across the line in the sparkly surroundings.
There are plenty of other activities in the village, such as husky rides and snowmobile safaris but for those on a tight budget there’s lots of fun to be had simply soaking up the frozen landscape’s atmosphere after a special meet with Santa.
Once your day in the village is over, rather than staying on site, it’s possible to find much cheaper alternatives in Rovaniemi itself. We found an entire studio apartment on booking.comjust 0.6 miles from the city centre for £260 for the whole family. After a restful night full of festive dreams, you can catch a flight back to Gatwick from nearby Rovaniemi airport. We found one with Skyscanner for £392.
Below are the totals for both Lapland trips and the savings that could be made. Estimates are for a family of four staying two nights between 15 – 17 December. Neither includes meals, refreshments or extras. Prices were correct at the time of writing:
Total for the Santa Village suite (cheaper of the two): £2,545
Total estimate for the alternative Lapland package using the Santa Express: £956
Eloise Barker, a writer for Responsible Travel, seeks out places to go when your kids have outgrown Lapland that are more affordable than the Finnish winter wonderland has become in recent years
There are ways to enjoy the snow and festive season without breaking the bank(Image: Slovakian Explorer)
Lapland, with its powdery snow, Northern Lights and Sámi culture, is popular for good reason, but its Santa Claus package holidays are pricey and book up fast: more and more people are visiting, some even taking extreme trips to visit for just one day.
Last year, we reported that the average price for a family holiday in Lapland from the UK was between £4,000 and £7,000.
But Europe is packed with winter wonderlands. You won’t find the big man in the red suit in these destinations – but you’ll still have a jolly good holiday…
Have you been on an amazing Christmas trip that you think Mirror readers would enjoy? We’d love to hear about it. Email [email protected]
Slovenia
All of Slovenia’s mountain resorts can be reached within 90 minutes from Ljubljana, its compact and pretty capital. There’s been almost €80 million of investment in infrastructure like ski lifts across multiple resorts, where you can also sled, snowshoe and go winter walking. The Post Office’s annual ski report noted that the cost of skiing in Slovenia’s Kranjska Gora resort had fallen 23.5% in the 2024/2025 season compared to the year before. Plus: the city of Celje transforms into a fairytale land in December, earning it the title ‘European City of Christmas 2025’.
The average price of a double room in Slovenia is £121/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Ljubljana start at £29 in December; from Edinburgh, £76 (Skyscanner).
Slovakia
“Slovakia really is a very authentic, family-friendly winter destination and the High Tatras is still a hidden gem of Europe,” says Petr Ivanek, founder of Slovakia Explorer. “In comparison to the Alps or Lapland – British pounds go much further.”
There are thermal spas, water parks like Bešenova Aqua Park, and snowy High Tatras resorts, and the mountains are less crowded than at Zakopane on the Polish side of their slopes. Stop in Bratislava first: last year, the Post Office named Slovakia’s capital as Europe’s cheapest Christmas market destination.
The average price of a double room in Slovakia is £96/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Bratislava in December start at £15; from Edinburgh, £26. Direct flights from London to Poprad start at £15 (Skyscanner).
Czech Republic
For all things Christmassy, consider the Czech Republic. Prices fell in the country last year, and Brno was voted European Capital of Christmas in 2024. Capital Prague remains a staple for Christmas markets and child-friendly activities, plus its public transport is free for children under 15. Fun fact: the Czech Republic has arguably the largest ice skating ‘rink’ in the world – at Lake Lipno, just outside the medieval fairytale town of Cesky Krumlov.
The average price of a double room in the Czech Republic is £111/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Prague start at £26 in December; from Edinburgh, £42 (Skyscanner).
Romania
Swap the beaten track for wolf prints in the snow – in Transylvania, where villagers go Christmas carolling in traditional costume between beautifully decorated wooden houses.
You can ride about by horse-drawn sleigh or husky sled, and see atmospheric Brasov city and Bran Castle with beguiling snowy backdrops. Or switch the very old for the very new: an ice hotel, the only one in southeastern Europe, is built every year, 2,000m up in the Făgăraș Mountains.
The average price of a double room in Romania is £83/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Brasov start at £56 in December (Skyscanner).
Bulgaria
“Two of Bulgaria’s national parks, Rila and Pirin, offer wonderful opportunities for winter holidays and for families interested in winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing,” says Anna Tuliyska at Sofia-based travel company Odysseia-In. The regions’ thermal springs also come into their own in cold weather. Whilst prices have risen in Bulgaria and may rise again when it adopts the euro in January 2026, the Post Office report ranked Bulgarian ski resorts among the cheapest in Europe in 2025.
The average price of a double room in Bulgaria is £101/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Sofia start at £17 in December; from Edinburgh, £36 (Skyscanner).
Expect camel treks instead of husky rides, powdery sand not powdery snow, and sandboarding over snowboarding. Bolt on a stay in Marrakech for souks and stocking fillers – with the snowy peaks of the Atlas
Mountains framing the horizon. Prices drop in the winter months but can rise over Christmas.
The average price of a double room in Morocco is £180/night (Kayak).
Direct flights from London to Marrakech start at £15 in December; from Edinburgh, £31 (Skyscanner).
Lapland is famous for Father Christmas, reindeer and snow, but it’s also a great place to visit in the summer, as celebrity and TV writer Elizabeth Cotton discovered.
Enjoy midnight sun in one pretty yet festive location(Image: Manchester Evening News)
When pondering a summer getaway, Lapland likely wouldn’t be your initial thought.
It’s renowned for Santa Claus, reindeer and snowfall, yet possesses its own allure during warmer months, as celebrity and television writer Elizabeth Cotton uncovered.
The Manchester Evening News journalist spent seven days soaking up the midnight sun and found it’s actually the ideal family retreat.
She said: “The Midnight Sun season is an unforgettable experience, and the views are truly magical. It typically lasts from late May to late July, with the sun remaining visible above the horizon for 24 hours a day.
“It’s certainly not a budget-friendly holiday, but ideal for every type of family. Whether you’re super active, interested in local culture, or love the idea of seeing Santa before the Christmas rush, it’s a must-do visit.”
During summer months, temperatures can climb to a pleasant late 20C, and even during cooler spells, the luminous skyline remains breathtaking.
Just a two-hour-and-40-minute flight from Manchester will transport you to Helsinki.
This bustling capital acts as Finland’s entrance point, offering straightforward connections to even the most isolated northern locations.
Elizabeth said: “Finnair offered a wonderful service, where the check-in process was plain sailing, and the journeys to Helsinki and beyond were just as smooth.
“Visit Finland looked after me during the trip, and provided a schedule filled to the brim of everything Finland has to offer.”
Each destination offers its own distinctive appeal, but for an opportunity to encounter Father Christmas himself, Rovaniemi – the capital of Lapland – is the destination to visit.
Elizabeth caught the one-hour flight from Helsinki to Rovaniemi Airport. From there, it’s merely a swift 15-minute journey to Lapland Hotel Sky Ounasvaara.
For a family of two adults and two children under 10, anticipate paying approximately £215 per night during peak season, which is August.
Hotel Sky Ounasvaara in Lapland (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Your hotel accommodation will feature a traditional Finnish sauna, ideal for relaxing after an active day and allowing your concerns to melt away.
The cost covers breakfast, and Elizabeth declared the porridge was delightful, remarking: “It’s far more exciting than it sounds!”
She commented: “The hotel felt like sheer luxury, but perhaps the most unique thing of all was the stunning views from the dining room.
“The windows showcased a lush forest, and even though it was grey when I arrived, I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect start to my trip.”
Santa’s Village
Whilst Lapland has more to offer than just Christmas, Elizabeth wished to discover just how festive it can feel in summer. Santa’s Village proved the ideal place to begin.
The village sat a stone’s throw from her hotel and entering Saint Nick’s workshop immediately reawakens the pure joy of childhood.
She said: “As you walk past presents wrapped and ready for the sleigh, you’ll soon come face to face with Father Christmas himself.
“He’s there every day of the year to meet anyone who steps into his home, and is happy to hear anyone’s wishes – young or old.
Christmas Cottage in Lapland(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“I must admit, once spotting a cheerful Father Christmas donned in his finest off-duty uniform as he sits in his armchair, the room fell silent as every one of us stared in complete awe, met with murmurings of ‘is that really him?'”
Even during the peak of summer, the sight of sparkling Christmas lights and the scent of freshly baked gingerbread is sufficient to melt even the most cynical heart.
You can also encounter Mrs Claus and question her about how she assists in spreading Christmas joy.
As you bid farewell, she presents you with a scroll containing advice on how to share the festive spirit.
Following a trip to the post office, where you can dispatch seasonal letters to your family and friends, the Husky Park is an essential experience.
Huskies in the park(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Jump onto a sleigh and allow a pack of spirited Huskies to transport you around the park. Entry begins from €50 (£44) for adults and €35 (£30) for children aged four to 12.
Just a brief walk away, you can also meet Santa’s reindeer, where you get the chance to stroke and feed these magical animals.
In Rovaniemi, the population of approximately 12,500 reindeer stands as proof of the age-old tradition of reindeer herding.
The indigenous herders exist in perfect balance with their creatures year-round, with countless numbers depending on them for survival.
Northern Lapland
After you’ve enjoyed your Christmas celebrations to the fullest, Elizabeth recommends exploring even further northwards.
She experienced the joy of lodging at the breathtaking Wilderness Hotel Muotka, situated in Sodankyla.
The trek from Rovaniemi requires roughly three hours, and she divided the journey with a stop at Kultamuseo in Tankavaara.
This exceptional gold museum stands as the sole establishment of its type worldwide, focusing on the heritage and modern methods of gold panning and mining.
Elizabeth said: “After an informative guided tour delving into the history of gold panning, I was given the chance to try my hand at finding my own gold – it’s quite a thrill to strike it rich!
“One of the highlights of my trip was undoubtedly the midnight cruise on Lake Inari. As the largest lake in Lapland, boasting over 3,000 islands, it’s a sight to behold.”
A cruise in the midnight sun is a great way to explore Lake Inari(Image: Lapland North Destinations / Kota Collective Ltd.)
This represents the ideal method to savour the bright evening skies, possibly clutching a flute of bubbly to celebrate the midnight sun.
It’s a moment that simply cannot be overlooked whilst exploring Lapland – there’s something genuinely enchanting about gliding over the glistening waters, with the sun following in your wake.
Culture Activities
There’s an abundance of choices to match every holiday taste. For the culture, Elizabeth recounted the delight of encountering Irene and Ari Kangasniemi, a delightful married pair living in a comfortable workshop in Saarenkyla, Rovaniemi.
She said: “They live in a cosy workshop in Saarenkyla, Rovaniemi, where they welcome visitors to learn about their life, local culture, and how to create Lappish crafts.
“They utilise every part of their reindeer for their work, particularly the antlers. Ari focuses on making spectacular chandeliers out of antlers, with some pieces taking up to five years to craft.
“They can be seen around various locations – if you stay at the Wilderness Hotels you’ll spot them.
“Irene then treated us to a glass of homemade blueberry juice – a Finnish speciality – and a slice of delicious spiced cake.”
Rovaniemi, the pulsing soul of Lapland, serves as a hub for artistic expression, scientific discovery, and cultural immersion.
Those eager to explore the area’s past and customs will find the Arktikum museum absolutely essential.
Starting from £17 for admission, visitors can participate in hands-on displays that offer deeper insight into Finland’s fascinating legacy.
At Wilderness Hotel Muotka, travellers can unwind in the sauna and, for the more daring, take a dip in the adjacent stream.
Enjoy the sauna at Wilderness Hotel Muotka (Image: Wilderness Hotels Muotka / Alexander Meier)
Elizabeth embraced this Finnish custom for the first time whilst staying there, and called it genuinely an authentic method to immerse oneself in Finnish culture.
For an authentic Finnish nature experience, Arctic Sky Lapland offers a memorable journey led by guide Minna Kataja. She guides you through the captivating forest, engaging all your senses.
From the sharp crunch underfoot to the harmonious birdsong filling your ears, and the tactile sensation of coarse tree bark, you’ll leave in a state of serene tranquillity.
For those eager to delve deeper into Finland’s rich history, a trip to the Sami Museum and Nature Centre Siida is highly recommended.
Here, you can immerse yourself in the Sami culture and its deep historical significance across the country.
Admission fees are set at £18 for adults, with family discounts available. This is a perfect outing for holidaymakers who appreciate understanding the local history of their destination or those seeking a break from Finland’s active pursuits.
Adventurous Activities
Active families won’t want to miss the E-bike trail provided by the hotel. This offers a fantastic chance to explore the scenic trails of the surrounding area and Urho Kekkonen National Park on an eco-friendly e-bike.
The E-bike tour was a highlight(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Next, head over to River Juutua for a thrilling river rafting adventure. Guides Peeter Veltson, Visa Ruokokoski and Tanja Ohenoja will be thrilled to show you the ropes.
As you navigate two major white-water rapids and several smaller streams, don’t forget to take in the breathtaking views from your rubber raft.
Reindeer Farm
For a more personal experience with reindeers, why not visit Tuula’s reindeer farm? Just remember to book in advance as it’s nestled within a private home.
Upon arrival at the farm, you’ll be welcomed by Jenni Hakovirta who will introduce you to her herd of reindeer before inviting you into her family home to showcase her collection of Sami handicrafts.
Sami Culture(Image: Lapland North Destinations / Kota Collective Ltd.)
During the warm summer months, you’ll have the charming chance to meet the young reindeer, still without their impressive antlers.
Food and Drink
While there’s a wealth of activities to keep you busy during your Lapland adventure, it’s crucial to make some time to enjoy the local culinary delights. Fresh, seasonal ingredients are abundant in both Rovaniemi and the northern areas.
No Finnish adventure would be complete without trying reindeer meat, served in a variety of ways. However, if that doesn’t appeal to you, Elizabeth highly recommends the fried salmon, freshly caught from local waters, at Kota Restaurant.
This cosy wooden hut features a central fire, providing much-needed warmth amidst the colder weather.
For a more relaxed dining experience back in Rovaniemi, do drop into Roka Kitchen and Winebar. It offers an enticing blend of Northern Finnish cuisine with a European twist.
More Information
Elizabeth was a guest at the following hotels:
Lapland Hotel Sky Ounasvaara – for a family of two adults and two children under 10, the cost is approximately £215 per night during peak season (August).
The hotel is conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from Rovaniemi airport. The flight duration from Manchester Airport to Helsinki Airport is around two hours and 40 minutes with Finnair.
Private transfers can be arranged through Visit Rovaniemi, costing upwards of £78 for a group of six.
Round-trip flights per adult in June are estimated to start from £300.
From Helsinki, a further flight to Rovaniemi Airport is required, which takes about one hour and 15 minutes with Finnair, costing upwards from £80 per adult for a one-way ticket.
Wilderness Hotel Muotka – a two-night stay for two adults and two children aged between four to 14 will set you back upwards of £814 in August.
The journey from Rovaniemi to this northern destination takes just under three hours by car. Private transfers can be booked through Visit Rovaniemi, but expect to pay upwards of £500 for the trip.
Wilderness Hotel Juutua – for a three-night stay, anticipate paying upwards of £640 per person during peak season. This price includes the Inari Summer package that offers full-board accommodation and airport transfers.
Elizabeth returned to Manchester from Ivalo Airport via Helsinki. The flight from Ivalo to Helsinki with Finnair takes just over two hours and costs upwards of £94 per person.
Activity Price List
Arktikum museum at Rovaniemi – starting from £17, visitors can enjoy interactive and educational exhibits to learn more about Finland.
Kultamuseo (Gold Museum) – a guided tour will set you back £9 per person, while gold panning is priced at £20 per person.
E-fatbike tour – a three-hour session comes with a price tag of £127 per person.
Midnight Sun Cruise by Visit Inari – this two-hour cruise costs £104 per person, with children eligible for a 30% discount.
River rafting experience by Luontoloma – this adult and teenager-only experience is priced at £113 per person.
Meeting Tuula’s reindeer – simply meeting the reindeer costs around £40 per person, but if you wish to learn about Sámi handcrafts as well, it’s £58 per person.
Sámi Museum and Nature Centre Siida – adult tickets are priced at £18, with family discounts available.
Elizabeth journeyed with Finnair and explored Lapland courtesy of Visit Rovaniemi and Lapland North Destinations.
