LaplandUK ditches 'cruel' use of live reindeer amid criticism from animal rights charity

By Matthew Hancock-Bruce 19th Nov 2025

Local News by Matthew Hancock-Bruce 19th Nov 2025

Cheshire's newest festive attraction will stop using live animals following concerns from an animal rights charity.

LaplandUK, which opened at Capesthorne Hall for the first time earlier this month, has confirmed it will no longer use live reindeers as part of its immersive experience.

This news has been welcomed by the People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) UK, who describe the use of animals as 'cruel and exploitative'.

The charity's vice president of programmes, Elisa Allen, said: "LaplandUK has moved off the 'naughty list' and onto the 'nice list' by choosing to stop using reindeer and other animals.

"Reindeer are intelligent, gentle animals who should be roaming free over vast ranges, not confined to cramped pens, tied up, or harnessed and forced to pull people around on sleighs for fun.

"PETA encourages other venues and organisers to follow LaplandUK's lead by extending goodwill to all this festive season and eliminating sad and cruel displays that treat living animals like Christmas decorations."

LaplandUK has been approached for comment.

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