Deep in the snowy woodlands of west Kent, some magic has been sprinkled around by a small army of elves. LaplandUK, now in its fifth year, opened its doors to hundreds of youngsters and their parents on Saturday at Bewl Water, Lamberhurst.

For those who choose to sample the experience, they’ll enjoy a three-and-a-half hour journey through the snow-sprinkled woods to help elves in the toy factory making toys for other youngsters as the preparations for Christmas begin apace.

They’ll also get to meet Mother Christmas and make some tasty decorations which might be hung on a Christmas tree.

There’s also some time spent meeting some real-life huskies and reindeer, and in the Elf Village, families can tuck into warming hot chocolates and chips, and other tasty treats.

Other shops include the Elf Baker, Pixie Mixie Sweet Shop and Elfsmith. There’s also the chance to post a letter to Father Christmas and to go ice skating on a rink in the centre of the village.

LaplandUK has this year introduced its own currency, Elf Jingles, which are available at Elf banks, and can also be pre-ordered when booking. The experience, guaranteed to delight youngsters, is topped off with the all-important visit to meet Father Christmas, who is ensconced in his cosy log cabin, ready to give families a friendly welcome.

More than 3,000 people visited the experience last year and already ticket sales are up 15% on last year, organisers say.

Mike Battle, MD of LUK Events which runs LaplandUK said: “We’ve had an amazing start to the Christmas season. Visitors have been thrilled with the new addition of the Elf Village and Elf Jingles.”

LaplandUK will run at Bewl Water, Lamberhurst, from now until Christmas Eve. Visitors are advised to dress warmly as the tour is quite long and much of it is outside. You can also take a torch to guide you through the woodland, although it is atmospherically lit. Tickets from £44.50 to £62.50. Details at www.laplanduk.co.uk/