Previously, families in the Manchester area had limited options for experiencing the magic of Lapland, often relying on long-distance travel to reach the winter wonderland. The anticipation for a local solution has been high, especially with the festive season approaching.
However, a significant development has emerged: airBaltic will commence a weekly service from Manchester to Kuusamo in Finnish Lapland starting on December 13, 2026. This marks the first regular scheduled service from Manchester to Lapland, a notable shift in accessibility for families eager to visit the region.
Fares for this new route will start from £120 one-way in Economy and £309 in Business Class, making it a viable option for many. The seating capacity of airBaltic’s Airbus A220-300 aircraft is 148, allowing for a substantial number of travelers to embark on this journey.
In conjunction with this new air service, LaplandUK will run its immersive experience from November 7 to December 24, 2026. Located at Capesthorne Hall, near Macclesfield and Ascot, this event has become a staple for families seeking a taste of the Lapland experience without the need for extensive travel.
Tickets for LaplandUK range from £60 to £195, reflecting the diverse offerings available to visitors. The immersive experience lasts approximately four and a half hours, during which families are greeted by hundreds of elves and performers in a snow-covered landscape.
Last year, the event’s popularity surged, with organizers expecting more than one million people to join the queue for tickets when they go live this week. Tickets are anticipated to sell out within hours, highlighting the demand for such experiences.
Every child who attends LaplandUK will leave with a gift from Father Christmas, adding to the allure of the event. This combination of local accessibility via air travel and a beloved immersive experience is set to transform how families in Manchester celebrate the festive season.
LaplandUK has also invested an additional £30 million into its Cheshire site, further enhancing the experience for visitors. This investment underscores the commitment to providing a magical holiday experience right outside Greater Manchester.
As the launch date approaches, families are encouraged to prepare for the ticket sales, ensuring they do not miss out on this unique opportunity. The combination of the new air service and the immersive experience at LaplandUK represents a significant evolution in holiday offerings for the Manchester region.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional features or experiences that may be introduced as part of this new service and event.
