We were kindly invited to attend the press event of Lotherton Christmas Experience. This event held at Lotherton Hall, North Leeds is a sell out each year and there’s no secret as to why!
Lotherton Christmas Experience – AD / PR Invite
This is the third time we have been to the Christmas Experience and it was as magical as ever. Even more so this time as I could see the wonder through both my boy’s eyes. My eldest is 7 now and I don’t know how much longer that Christmas magic will last for him. With my youngest this will be the first year he has really seemed to understand what is going on. But it was a truly magical experience in every which way knowing they both were fully invested in the Christmas spirit.
What else is at Lotherton?
For those of you who have not been to Lotherton Hall then I would highly recommend it. Even without the Christmas experience on there is loads to do. Lotherton Hall is a small Edwardian hall surrounded by expansive grounds. There is a wildlife park, playgrounds, café and formal gardens. The grounds are a child’s dream with plenty of space to run wild. Brilliant parks to play on, plenty of picnic tables and the paths are pram friendly which is an added bonus.
The wildlife park is substantial and you can easily wander round for a few hours. Packed full of birds from around the world; Penguins (our favourites!) and mammals; including some not so obvious breeds such as Armadillos and Maras. They have even started doing animal experiences now which look amazing for a personal up close encounter.
What does the Christmas Experience involve?
Back to the Christmas experience though which was mega. There are lots of activities to get involved in and of course a visit to see the big man himself. The staff who played the elf characters were brilliant with the kids. They weren’t too in your face or pushy and knew when to back off. This meant that even my fussy man who usually refuses to cooperate at times was interacting with them and asking them lots of questions.
The Christmas experience starts in Lotherton Hall itself. In previous years we were warmly greeted with mulled wine (or juice) and mince pies. Then had the chance to amble our way through the luxuriously decorated rooms. The Christmas trees were ornately decorated each with their own theme. There were old fashioned toys set out, big Christmas dinner spreads and lots of artifacts that made you feel all cosy and homely. This year however we were running late so missed out on this fab start.
Our next stop after a little perusal of the Christmas market stalls was to see Mrs Claus in the Elf Village. Sitting by the cosy fire she told Christmas tales whilst we made our own Christmas bauble for the tree. After a little chat and a photo we could then head off to do more crafting.
The Elf Village
The Elf Village was busy with activity from crafting with the elves in the their workshops to the opportunity to grab something to eat and drink. The Yuletride tipi is selling hot and cold drinks plus there is a smore shop where you can get everything you need to make the perfect treat. The fire pit is going outside so you can roast your own.
Around the central seating area are the elves workshops. We were handed golden tokens on arrival so we could use this for the craft stations. The elves workshops were decorated beautifully. They were all great at staying in character and chatting to us throughout, helping with the crafts where needed. You could pick from sand art, painting an ornament or decorating a plate. The boys chose the sand art and plates which were both really fun to do and we could take them home after.
Meeting Father Christmas
Heading to the North Pole we were met by Twinkle Stardust the elf who entertained the boys from the off. Asking if they were on the nice list then radioing through the boys were in awe. Luckily they were on the nice list (not sure how!) so were allowed through…. Mummy on the other hand was on the naughty list!
Lotherton Christmas Experience
Met by another elf who guided us through into the first part of the experience where we had more Christmas stories whilst making our own Christmas light (decorating a tea light holder). This was a lovely sentiment but not the most child friendly as the holder was glass and I was worried that the little one would just launch it across the room! After escaping unharmed we headed to the wishing well to put our Christmas wishes in their. A little bit of humour went a long way so giggling we then headed through to meet the Big Man.
Santa Claus (“it’s just a pretend one mummy, the real one’s too busy to come”) was sat there waiting for us in his grotto shed. After the little one raced in and fell through the door we were sat down next to Santa to begin our own intimate experience. The elf was immensely kind and offered to take photos of us whilst we got to chat with Santa. He asked the boys what they wanted for Christmas and remembered the substantially long list and also their names. Very impressive! They were then both given a bag (containing a plush cuddly reindeer) as we were leaving.
The Santa Experience lasts approx 30 minutes and was really memorable. The start was a little slow and intricate for my 2 year old but the rest was brilliant and they both loved it.
The Illuminated Trail
Last but not least was the illuminated trail…
As our Christmas experience was around tea time it was perfect for walking the trial to see it all lit up. You can however, do this at any time of the day. In the winter months it’s pretty dark and dreary all day but as it’s under tree cover the walk can still be enjoyed. The trail is the Traditions of Christmas. The trail was good but lacked the wow factor for us. Probably because there are so many amazing light night events around now however it is included in the entry price to the estate so it’s not a deal breaker.
Our verdict
Overall we had a lovely time at Lotherton Christmas experience and I wouldn’t hesitate to book to go again. We love the place anyway so I would certainly say make a day of it and use the rest of the facilities on site whilst you are there. Wrap up warm though as it is mostly outdoors!
If you want to visit the Christmas Experience then check availability here for tickets. It is running from 23rd November to 5th January.
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