The winter wonderland experience at Phileas Fogg is without a doubt one of the most exciting adventures we as a family have had as far as days out go. It is absolutely not to be missed. We were invited along for a family experience and to say I was excited was an understatement - but if I’m honest I wasn’t at all prepared for what it actually was. I thought it would be a themed room and some actors making the Christmas experience exciting for little ones. You aren’t allowed to take photographs, but the sneak peak trailer on their website here revealed spinning tunnels, ball pits, slides and the like. So I was geared up for a bit of fun.
What it actually was, far exceeded anything I could ever have imagined! As we opened the door, we were immediately transported back in time with an elegant Victorian feel, surrounded by portraits, a beautiful station clock, cogs and gears of gadgets and of course, a large globe. I was in awe, but of course my child had arrived with a nappy full and we were escorted to an area which offered privacy and comfort! Meanwhile, the toddler was more than entertained with all things to explore and keep her occupied while we were awaiting our time slot, which also was to be our departing train time as we began our immersive journey around the world with Phileas Fogg. Not forgetting of course, to take our passport photo so that we could travel the world - which is a lovely photo opportunity with a selection of Victorian hats to wear also! (Just a shame my children either weren’t looking or had their eyes closed!)
So we were led onto a train, set in what I believe was Gard du Nord station in Paris, the fogg clears as we arrive in Venice, stop number 1. The attention to detail in every area is second to none and without giving away too much about further ‘stops’ along our way around the world I would say the theme of careful attention to detail and high quality sets is consistent throughout - featuring cinematography, lights, sounds and even little touches like sand can be found!
For the children’s version, there are ample opportunities to join in, and being that my toddler is quite outspoken, she was the first who got to help our group through the tunnel out of Venice, by carrying the lantern to light the way, over to the next set. She felt completely proud of herself for guiding our group through. The groups themselves are kept relatively small which is great because it really allows a chance for everyone to take part. In each room, there is an activity and opportunity for someone to take part in the experience.
The actors are incredibly dedicated and talented, and remain in character - I asked which way was best with a baby as there were two routes at one point and he responded in his Victorian character, and I think it’s at that point that I myself began to forget we were in 2018, and legitimately began to feel engulfed in the Victorian era.
We had nearly come to the end of our journey around the world - and had to cross a bridge which was an absolute experience I don’t think I’ll ever forget then it was time to see Father Christmas! While Amelie was busy playing amongst the snowballs of the ballpit, an elf appeared to let us know that Father Christmas had arrived! Amelie was absolutely convinced that we were at the North Pole for real with Santa’s elves and she was about to meet the big man himself! We were led in to a grand and beautifully decorated room, with red carpeted steps that led to Father Christmas. Each of the children received a gift, and the families were invited to have their photo taken with Santa. The gifts are high quality and age appropriate, and Amelie was beyond chuffed with hers.
Finally, we were led to the bar area within which the themed continued as did the exceptional service! The children were able to write letters to Santa and decorate gingerbread men with an elf which Amelie again, absolutely adored, and it also gave us a chance to enjoy a drink and snack. Phileas Fogg offer their own special brand of lager which I would liken to an upmarket lager - easy drinking, but definitely a nice blend of quality flavour led. I couldn’t resist a milkshake - it was too elaborate to give a miss ! I had a look at the menu because the afternoon tea experience AND gin experience really took my fancy -the prices are absolutely reasonable especially now that I’ve seen the setting and quality. I’ve been inspired to book onto the adult experience, in which there are puzzles to solve in each setting with a view to help the wanted, wrongly accused Phileas Fogg along the journey!
Beyond grateful for the opportunity to visit for the Christmas special, and if I can recommend one place this holiday season that is truly immersive, totally different and magical - I would say Phileas Fogg is like no other that I’ve experienced with my children ever before.
