Families across the UK are expressing fury on social media over the staggering cost of domestic Lapland-themed Christmas 'experiences', with some prices reaching nearly a thousand pounds. The outcry has led many to discover that a genuine trip to Finnish Lapland can offer far better value.
Social Media Backlash Over 'Bonkers' Prices
Complaints have flooded platforms like X, where contributors have labelled the prices for attractions such as LaplandUK Manchester as 'absolute madness' and 'bonkers'. The cost for a family of five to attend a four-hour Santa-related event can soar to an eye-watering £955. Many disgruntled commenters suggested that visiting a local garden centre to see Father Christmas represents a far more sensible alternative.
The furore was so intense that numerous people initially assumed the complaints were about expensive trips to the actual Arctic region of Lapland, not an 'Enchanted Forest' attraction located just six miles west of Macclesfield in England.
The Real Deal: Affordable Magic in Finland
However, the festive spirit need not be broken. Travel experts highlight that it is still possible—and often more affordable—to secure a last-minute trip to see Santa in the authentic Lapland, which spans parts of Norway, Sweden, and Finland. The region's top attractions, including Santa Park and Santa Claus Village, are centred in Rovaniemi, Finland.
Compared to the brief UK experiences, these trips offer full holidays with a magical Arctic backdrop, often including cosy accommodation, reindeer sleigh rides, festive menus, and a chance to witness the Northern Lights—a spectacle unlikely near Macclesfield.
Top Value Finnish Holiday Deals
A range of package deals demonstrate the comparative value. For instance, a four-night stay at Hotel Pyhatunturi in Pyha starts from £362 per person, including return flights from Liverpool on December 23. This works out at approximately £72 per person per day and includes access to carol services, reindeer trails, and sleigh rides.
Other compelling options include:
- Lapland Glow Chalets: Two nights from £369pp B&B with flights from London, near Rovaniemi (£123pp per day).
- Tankavaara Gold Village: Three nights for a family of four from £483pp from Manchester, offering gold panning and Northern Lights sightings (£120pp per day).
- Viola Apartments: Three nights from £565pp from London, with sauna and ski hire near Santa Claus Village (£141pp per day).
- Hotel Hullu Poro in Levi: Three nights from £559pp from Gatwick, featuring a reindeer lounge and husky rides (£139pp per day).
For those seeking a self-catering option, a renovated cabin by Lake Keselmalampi, a short drive from Rovaniemi, is available for four nights from £151 per person (excluding flights), equating to just £30 per person per day.
The Ultimate Premium Experience
For families still willing to spend significantly but seeking unparalleled value, packages like Ingham’s 'Santa’s Magic' offer a comprehensive experience. Priced from £3,587 for a family of three including flights, it features husky sledding, elf shows, festive meals, and a private Santa meeting—a stark contrast to the high-cost, short-duration UK attractions.
The message from disenchanted British families is clear: when domestic 'experiences' rival the cost of a genuine Arctic holiday, the smarter choice may be to trade the imitation for the real magic of Lapland.
