lapland day trip cardiff

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Lapland Holidays from Cardiff

Northern lights breaks and santa day trips from wales.

Depart from Cardiff airport to Lapland this winter on a magical Winter Wonderland daybreak. Our exclusive charter flight operates direct to Enontekio in the far north of Lapland. It’s just a three-and-a-half hour flight from Cardiff but the snow covered fells of the Arctic are a world away from the Welsh Valleys. Land in True Lapland amid the dramatic snowscapes – a picture-perfect backdrop for the Winter Wonderland that Santa calls his home. Once there, the huskies and reindeer are eager to meet you – and so is the Grand Old Man himself! Play in the snow and ride a snowmobile down a frozen river before your journey back to Cardiff to be home in time for supper. What a day! See our Winter Wonderland tour for more details.

• We also fly from:
• London Gatwick

Snowmobile Voyager

Finnish lapland.

A short break in the very far north of Finnish Lapland for those who love snowmobiling. Journey...

3 or 4 nights from £1239 per adult

Northern Lights

Finnish lapland - swedish lapland.

Search for the spectacular Northern Lights in Lapland and enjoy a host of winter activities

3 or 4 nights from £949 per adult

Winter Wonderland

Experience all the magic of Lapland in a single day and return home in time for supper!

Daybreak from £599 per adult

Getting to Cardiff Airport

Travelling by car.

If you are using a Sat Nav our postcode is CF62 3BD. The airport is close to Rhoose in the Vale of Glamorgan, west of Cardiff and 13 miles from junction 33 on the M4. Exit junction 33 on the M4 and follow the signs to Cardiff Airport along the A4232, A4050 and A4226. Please be assured there is plenty of signage upon your arrival at the airport to make sure you head in the right direction.

Travelling by Train

The airport is in Rhoose which has a rail link connecting to Cardiff Central and Bridgend. Trains run every hour from Monday to Saturday and every two hours on Sundays. A shuttle bus service from the train station to the Airport is available for passengers, which connects with all trains, to carry passengers on the short journey to the Airport terminal. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes and there is a small charge of £1 per journey on the shuttle bus.

Services at Cardiff Airport

Car parking, airport hotels.

• View collection
• Request this brochure
• Northern Lights 3 or 4 nights from £949
• Festive Lights 3 or 4 nights from £1059
• Aurora Hunter 7 nights from £1439
• Snowmobile Voyager 3 or 4 nights from £1239
• Santa's On His Way 3 or 4 nights from £1199
• Winter Wonderland Daybreak from £599
• Sleigh Bells Ringing 3 or 4 nights from £1399
• Snow is Falling 2, 3 or 4 nights from £1099
• Dashing Through the Snow 3 or 4 nights from £1299
• Glass Cabins
• See the Northern Lights
• Real Snow Igloos
• Husky Sledding
• Visit Santa in Lapland
• Snowmobiling
• The Reindeer of Lapland
• Ski and Snowshoe
• View all experiences

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Lapland Holidays

Treat the family to the trip of a lifetime with a Lapland Holiday. Meet Santa, take a reindeer sleigh ride and watch your children's faces light up with all the magic this amazing country has to offer.

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Lapland Holidays Cardiff

Lapland holidays from cardiff.

Lapland holiday are selling out fast! With limited availability contact us today to book the perfect holiday to Lapland from Cardiff.

Choose from a wide selection of Lapland trips departing from Cardiff airport including Lapland holidays, short breaks and day trips. Our selection of holidays include a variety of Christmas activities from visiting Santa’s workshop, taking reindeer sled rides and snow mobile safaris.

Call us now for all Lapland Holiday Cardiff.

• Lapland Holidays From Cardiff
• Visit Santa
• Reindeer & Husky Sled Rides
• Large selection of Lapland Trips
• Lapland Day Trips, Lapland Holidays, Lapland Short Breaks

Lapland holidays from the following airports surrounding Cardiff.

Our Cardiff to Lapland holidays

As part of the Not Just Travel Group all of our Lapland holidays are ABTA and ATOL protected.

Classic Ice Hotel Short Break in Sweden

By Lapland Expert | 2019-02-15T14:24:52+00:00 September 21st, 2016 | Categories: Lapland Holidays , Recommended |

White Christmas 4 Night Lapland Holiday

By Lapland Expert | 2016-09-26T09:07:39+00:00 September 20th, 2016 | Categories: Christmas in Lapland , Lapland Holidays , Recommended |

For Auld Lang Syne New Year Lapland Holiday

By Lapland Expert | 2016-09-26T09:08:05+00:00 September 20th, 2016 | Categories: Lapland Holidays , New Year in Lapland , Recommended |

Muotka Wilderness Lodge Northern Lights Adventure

By Lapland Expert | 2019-02-15T14:28:11+00:00 September 20th, 2016 | Categories: Lapland Holidays , Recommended |

Santa’s Magic Lapland Holiday

By Lapland Expert | 2016-09-26T09:09:24+00:00 September 15th, 2016 | Categories: Christmas in Lapland , Lapland Holidays , Lapland Short Breaks , Recommended |

5 Day Christmas at Luosto

By Lapland Expert | 2016-09-26T09:09:16+00:00 September 15th, 2016 | Categories: Christmas in Lapland , Lapland Holidays |

• Flight times from Cardiff to Lapland Flights from London to Lapland will take approximately 3 and a half hours.
• Lapland Temperatures During November & December the average temperature of Lapland ranges from -3 to -9.
• Lapland flights have limited availability We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

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Lapland Day Trips 2024

Tucked far away in northernmost Finland lies the magical place that Santa Claus calls home. This is a region deep inside the Arctic Circle; a land of wonder and enchantment that really comes alive with the spirit of Christmas. You never know just who you might see...

Whether you're looking to explore pretty snow-clad pine forests in a reindeer-drawn sleigh, search for Santa and his elves, or indulge in adrenaline-charged activities like snowmobile safaris, we can offer something that will tick most boxes. Lapland is a winter wonderland with a difference.

EXAMPLE 2024 ITINERARY

SNOW VILLAGE Kittila’s Snow Village is home to an ice hotel with igloo-like rooms and impressive sculptures carved from frozen water, an ice bar and an ice chapel. You’ll land in Kittila around midday and pick up your snowsuit and boots. Then, it’s on to the Snow Village, where your action-packed day takes place. Just so you know, lunch and all the activities below are included in the price of your trip. That said, it's worth bringing extra euros for any other food and drink you might want to buy.

HUSKY ADVENTURE Hop on the back of a husky-led sleigh and you’ll be taken on a short tour of the Lappish countryside. There’ll be time to find out how the dogs are trained, plus Santa’s elves have an interesting story to tell about how the huskies saved Christmas.

REINDEER SLEIGH RIDE Climb into a sleigh and let Rudolph and Co. guide you through snow-covered forests on a short ride.

SNOWMOBILING Buckle up for the drive of your life. After learning to manoeuvre your snowmobile, you can head off to explore the winter wilderness. For this activity, you'll need your driving license.

MEET SANTA Get your festive wish-list at the ready because now’s your chance to meet Santa and tell him what you want for Christmas. The elves will help you impress him by teaching you how to say hello in Finnish.

ARCTIC STORYTELLING You’ll get a real taste of tradition when you meet a Lapland local. You can poke around his tent, and listen as he tells age-old stories and legends about the region.

SNOW FUN You can’t come to Lapland without playing in the snow. Start a friendly snowball fight, build a snowman, or learn how to drive a miniature skidoo. Afterwards, warm up by the campfire with hot berry juice.

HOME TIME When your day comes to an end, Santa’s elves will take you to the airport for your flight home.

Lapland Day Trips

Search For Santa

This trip is packed with outdoor adventures from start to finish. Your venue for the day is Kittila’s Snow Village, which is home to an ice hotel, an ice bar and an ice chapel. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the igloo-like hotel rooms and admire the impressive sculptures that have been carved from frozen water.

Lapland Santa Experience

In December, take the kids on the trip of a lifetime, and watch their faces light up when they see Santa in a true Winter Wonderland.

Special Offers

2024 lapland day trips.

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2024 Lapland Day Breaks!

Magical Lapland day trips for 2024 are now on sale!

Walk through freshly fallen snow , experience exciting winter activities and meet Santa himself in this magical winter wonderland during this unforgettable Lapland experience!

This fantastic 2024 experience also includes a husky experience, snowmobile adventure and a reindeer sleigh ride through the picture perfect Lapland wilderness.

Don't miss out, Lapland holidays are very popular and sell out fast!

From just £630 per adult & £585 per child * , includes:

We have lots of dates, durations and departure airports available. For a personalised quote please call us on 0330 880 5001

*Prices and available dates subject to availability. Please note that Lapland Holidays are not recommended for children under the age of 3.

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Per Family from

2 Adults + 1 Child

Selected UK airports

24th December 2023

More dates available

Contact us to book

Enquire Online

Simply complete the form below and a Hays Travel Consultant will be in touch to discuss your itinerary. If you've already booked your holiday and have a query, please click here for our Customer Services contact details.

To get the best price on your selected dates

• £600 Deposit followed by 13 monthly payments of £98 per family of 3
• Add travel insurance for £40 PER FAMILY
• Return flights with hot meals onboard
• Private family meeting with santa
• Small gift for children from santa
• Taster husky experience
• Taster snowmobile adventure
• Taster reindeer sleigh ride
• Warming lunch
• Loan of thermal suit and boots

Search for Santa on a Lapland Day Trip!

With Christmas on the horizon, why not make precious memories with your children and get in the festive mood with a fun-filled day in Finnish Lapland? These magical one-day Winter Wonderland trips run throughout December until Christmas Eve, with convenient departures from regional airports throughout the UK - from as far north as Aberdeen to as far south as Exeter - making it easier for you to spend a day in Santa’s kingdom and still be home in time for your supper! 

From the moment the early morning alarm clock rings, there's great anticipation in the air: a trip to Lapland to visit the REAL Father Christmas is a unique day after all! After descending from the clouds and witnessing the sprawling snow-capped vastness of Lapland below, the excitement continues to build. Upon arrival in Lapland, you’ll be taken to collect your all-in-one thermal snow suits and winter boots – essential to keep warm in the Arctic climate, where temperatures can drop to a chilly -40C! 

Each Winter Wonderland day trip takes you and your family to a magical location, close to a vast snow-covered wilderness, and unspoiled by mass-market tourism or crowds of Santa pilgrims. It’s an outdoors day, filled with Lapland’s favourite activities - snowmobiling, husky sledding, and reindeer sleigh rides - which take place around a frozen river or a frozen lake. A warming lunch is included and provides much-needed energy for your fun-packed adventures in the snow!

Excitement reaches fever pitch for children and parents alike as you venture in search of Santa’s hideaway cabin - the ultimate highlight of your one-day trip. Don’t forget to bring a letter, he’d love to know what’s on your Christmas wish list! There'll also be plenty of time to pack in a friendly snowball fight and create perfect snow angels, before travelling through the pristine snow by an engine-propelled snowmobile, a sleigh led by Santa's favourite reindeer, or a sled pulled by an eager team of huskies! 

Departing from UK airports - Belfast, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Bristol, Cardiff, Teesside International, Edinburgh, Exeter, Glasgow, Humberside, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, London Gatwick, Manchester, Newcastle, and Norwich - the trip includes return flights with hot meals on board, private family meeting with Santa, small gift for children from Santa, taster husky experience, taster snowmobile adventure, taster reindeer sleigh ride, warming lunch, loan of a thermal suit and boots, and government air passenger duty.

Per Family of 3 from

23rd December 2024

Guide on How to Travel from Helsinki to Lapland

A re you heading to Finland and wondering what the best way to travel from Helsinki to Lapland? Did you know that for most visitors to Finland, these are the two most visited areas? It makes sense as most visitors fly into Helsinki, spend a day or two and then head off into the vast wilderness of Finnish Lapland.

In this guide I will help you in your travel research by providing up to date information on how to travel to/from these regions of Finland, whether its by plane, train or even car. 

One of the biggest factors in your decision about how to get from Helsinki to Lapland will be the amount of time you have and your budget. Below I go through the practical details on the three main transport options, providing the positives and negatives for each so you can make the most informed decision. Let get into it!

What are the airports in Lapland?

As I mentioned there are currently 5 airports in Lapland. Below are the airports with the main locations serviced from them.

Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)

Rovaniemi is the third busiest airport in Finland and is the most popular of the ones in Lapland. Located in the south of Lapland, just near the Arctic Circle, this airport is seen as the gateway to Santa Claus Village. Given the towns popularity, there are several flights a day between Helsinki and Rovaniemi. This is one of the few that also is international airport accepting flights from several major European cities. 

In general, Rovaniemi can feel a quite commercial and crowded, especially during the peak winter season. This airport also serves as the hub for Pyhä  and  Salla which are popular for their natural beauty and skiing, both downhill and cross country. 

Ivalo Airport (IVL)

Two popular destinations with skiers and snowboarders include Inari and Saariselka , which are both serviced by the Ivalo airport. The airport is within 30 minutes of both destinations and is the northernmost airport in Finland.

Kittilä Airport (KTT)

Kittila is one of the main airports in the northernmost region of Finland, and the only other accepting international flights. This airport services the popular ski area of Levi. Levi is a popular spot for families during the festive season, but is smaller and quieter than Rovaniemi. Additionally, the popular Snow Village can be found here.

Our favorite destination serviced by this airport is Muonio which is a laid back destination offering all the popular touristy activities found in Rovaniemi but without the crowds and is excellent for spotting the Northern Lights. 

Kemi Airport (KEM)

Kemi-Tornio Airport is located on the coast of the Bay of Bothnia, serving travelers heading to Southern Lapland. Kemi has slowly become more popular in the tourist circuits for their magnificent Snow Castle that is built there every winter and for the famous Sampo icebreaker cruise. 

Kuusamo Airport (KAO)

Lastly, the Kuusamo Airport serves one of Finland’s major holiday destinations Kuusamo, attracting almost a million tourists annually. Many of these arrive for skiing at nearby ski resorts, especially Ruka Ski Resort , one of the largest in Finland.

RELATED READING

Top Things to Do in Lapland Finland

A Finnish Lapland Winter Escape

Flying from Helsinki to Lapland

Domestic flights from the capital Helsinki to Lapland airports are operated by Finnair. While the flights can be reasonably priced if booked well in advance, domestic flights on Finnair do impose an extra fee for checked luggage. Additionally, the new Finnair carry on limits are quite strict with a maximum of 8 kg for all carry on items combined. This means, that for most travelers,  it makes most sense to upgrade to the main fare price which includes both carry on and checked baggage. Once you upgrade your flight, a round-trip flight will cost a minimum of €200.  Note, if you are looking for cheap flights, sign up for Finnair’s email blast and keep an eye out for flash sales.

That said, this is still the quickest way to travel between Helsinki and Lapland. It can be cost effective if you are a solo traveler and/or traveling with extremely light luggage. However, it can be get expensive if you need to check a bag or are traveling in high season with several people

Traveling by Train from Helsinki to Lapland

Next we will move on to traveling by train from Helsinki to Lapland , which is the second most popular option.

I personally find travelling by train in Finland to be a wonderful experience and the most convenient way to get around the country. The trains are clean and reasonably reliable depending on weather conditions of course. Additionally, it is better for the environment and saves you money on accommodation if you can take an overnight train to travel while you sleep. All long-distance trains in Finland are operated by VR Train. 

Day vs. Night Trains

The most popular train that visitors take to Lapland from Helsinki is the Santa Claus Express train which ends in Rovaniemi. It leaves close to midnight and arrives around 11 a.m. the next morning. If you are traveling with children, this train is great as the sleeper cabins are essentially sold as a two person cabin. Prices for an upstairs private compartment sleeper cabin which includes a private toilet run around 300 Euro one way. The train also has a restaurant car for snacks and meals while on the train. Note, Rovaniemi train tickets for the sleeper cars can sell out quickly, so book well in advance to ensure you have a cabin.

Another popular route is to Kolari, which is the northernmost railway station in Finland. Travel here from Helsinki takes approximately 14 hours. Boarding is around 7:45 p.m. in Helsinki with a 10 a.m. arrival.  Even though it sounds like a long trip, it goes by quite quickly once you get settled in your sleeper cabin, grab some food from the restaurant car and then hit the sack. 

If you are unable to secure a sleeper cabin, you can consider a day train. With free Wifi, power sockets and the ability to walk around, an 8 hour train would actually go quite quickly if you can keep yourself occupied! These tickets run around €75 per ticket during high season. 

Take Your Car on the Train

For readers who live in Europe or have a rental car already booked, they can consider putting the vehicle on the train as well! These trains depart from Pasila Station and can be extremely handy if you have brought your car over from mainland Europe, but don’t want to drive all the way to Lapland. This is not cheap, but is a dobale option to ensure you have more access to explore around Lapland.

Train Stations in Lapland

There are many train stations in Lapland that I can’t list them all, but the main ending/starting point for the major lines include Kolari as the furthest north, Rovaniemi and Kemijarvi in the east. 

Kolari is in the far north of Finland, northeast of Rovaniemi, and very close to the Swedish border. This station is perfect for those traveling to Levi or Muonio. You can reserve a shared taxi or bus from the station to both locations. 

Kemijärvi is located east of Rovaniemi and from here you can easily access Salla and Pyhä.

Overall, I personally feel that if you are traveling with others or even on your own that taking an overnight train to or from Lapland is a great option. Train travel is scenic, cost effective if you have a family or a lot of luggage and you also have the option of taking a vehicle. The negatives are that it does take a long time and there are times that the trains leave late at night making it awkward for families with smaller children. 

Driving from Helsinki to Lapland by Car

For many travelers further afield, this would mean renting a car and needing to return it either in Lapland or back to Helsinki which can be quite an expense.

I am not sure I would recommend this option for many, but if you have your car and you are confident on driving on the right hand side of the road, in snow or inclimate weather, you will most likely be fine.

But you must be aware that this journey is at least 800 kilometers and can take around 10 hours. That said, the journey up to Rovaniemi is along one main road and the views will be stunning for much of the way.

In general, I’d only advise driving to Lapland from Helsinki if you’re touring elsewhere in Finland, have your own vehicle and have at least a couple of weeks here to make it worthwhile and cost-effective.

Important Information for Your Finland Trip

When is the best time to visit finland.

In reality, you can visit Finland at any time of the year as there are a multitude of activities to suit any weather condition. That said, in my opinion, the best time to visit Finland is definitely during the winter months between December and February. This is when you will see the most beautiful winter wonderland landscapes and you have a great chance to see the aurora borealis. Note, it is also the coldest time of the year, so you will need to prepare for that!

What is the best way to get to Finland?

Finnair offers direct flights to Helsinki Airport from all over the world, including from here in Los Angeles. The international flights are on newer Airbus A350 planes which have ample legroom, flight cameras and more. Subscribe to their newsletter for deals and special offers if this is a trip you are looking to plan far in advance. 

If you are in mainland Europe, you can also make your way overland to Tallinn and take the Viking Express over to Helsinki for a very affordable rate. Note, this is also a great day trip idea from Helsinki.

Where do you recommend to stay in Helsinki?

There are so many amazing options to stay in Helsinki. I think where you stay is dependent on what you want out of your visit. During my stay in the city I was leaving on an early morning ferry and arriving late at night from the airport so I chose the Noli Studio Apartments which were cheap, clean and convenient to everywhere I wanted to go. There are several of them located throughout the city, so pay attention to the neighborhood that you wish to be in! 

If you want a little more luxury and don’t mind being a little further out, consider the Clarion Hotel which is a favorite for repeat visitors to the city. 

What are the best things to do in Finland?

There are so many amazing things to do in Finland that I can’t list them all here. But a start would be to check out our top experiences in Lapland that you can find all over the region. Winter activities are some of the best on offer here in Finland.

What do I need to pack for Finland?

Layers is the short answer. The longer answer will depend on what time of year you are visiting. Assuming you visit during the high season of winter, you will need to pack a lot of warm breathable layers such as merino wool . Overall, I would say to focus on layers, good boots that have room for several pairs of socks, good gloves or mittens and a warm hat.

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Santa Experience Lapland Day Trip 2022

Price includes: Exclusive chartered return flights direct to Pajala, in Swedish Lapland Return transfers from the airport to Santa's village In-flight catering Warm and cosy thermal clothing Hot berry juice drink A 'Search for Santa' experience A private family meeting with Father Christmas A token Christmas gift for every child An exhilarating snowmobile ride A traditional reindeer sleigh ride Husky sledding through the snowy countryside A two-course lunch of hot soup and Swedish meatballs

Join us for the most exciting and fun-filled day ever. Fly to the still, white wilderness of Lapland where, as every child knows, a Very Special Person lives among snowy forests, husky dogs and reindeer. With all activities included, it's an exclusive festive day trip that your family will remember forever.

children 2-15 Deposit £150 per person.

Your Itinerary

Fly direct to Pajala on a specially chartered flight to Swedish Lapland. This will be the only 'Santa' flight to Pajala on this day and numbers are strictly limited, which means you'll have plenty of time to enjoy all the activities on offer throughout the magical day.

Your Lapp hosts will meet you, dressed in traditional Sami costume, before you take a short, warm and comfortable coach journey to Santa's Home.

After a quick change into the cosy, thermal garments provided, you'll head out into the snow. Enjoy a magical ride in a traditional reindeer-drawn sleigh, a trip through the countryside on a dog-sled pulled by real huskies and a thrilling ride on a snowmobile. Between the organised activities, you'll have time to enjoy the snow, with toboggan rides, snowman building and snowball fights!

Once you've worked up an appetite, head into the welcoming warmth of the main building, and tuck in to a delicious two-course lunch. Warming hot berry juice and biscuits will also be available throughout the day.

But the highlight of the day will surely come as you set foot on the 'secret path' through the forest, and follow the twinkling lanterns to Santa's log cabin home. Father Christmas will be waiting there to greet you personally; the perfect end to a perfect, magical day.

Holders of full driving licences can take the controls. For children under 15, there will be the chance to be pulled along in a sleigh.

Temperatures rarely rises above freezing, and can get as low as -35C. Thermal wear for all sizes is provided at Santa's Village, but we recommend that you bring a suitable hat, gloves and outerwear (preferably layers) for travel between the aircraft and the village. Footwear is also available if you do not have your own boots.

Hot meals will be served on both outbound and inbound flights. Lunch at the village will consist of soup followed by traditional Swedish meatballs or a vegetarian option. Hot berry juice will be available throughout the day. Due to the remoteness of the location we are unable to fulfil any special dietary requirements. We'd, therefore, ask that any customers who suffer from allergies provide their own food for the day. You may also like to bring treats for your children to snack on during the day. Due to airport security, liquids must be purchased after you have passed through Passport Control.

There are no cash machines in Lapland, but British pounds may be used to purchase drinks, snacks and souvenirs. Valid credit/debit cards will be accepted.

**Holidays Are Subject To Availability And Price Changes.

RESERVATION ENQUIRIES

Please fill out the form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Departure Date: SOLD OUT FOR 2022

Child's Ages:* - We require all children's ages to find the best price for your party:

Additional Requests:

This is a no obligation form, however any bookings made as a result of submitting this form will be bound by our operators terms and conditions.

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Thunderstorms in England and Wales may give way to warmest day of year

Met Office says storms may cause travel disruption and flooding, leading to difficult driving conditions

Heavy thunderstorms could give way to the warmest day of the year so far in Britain.

The same storm caused mudslides in northern France , which started around midnight and killed at least one person, a 57-year-old woman, and injured her partner.

In southern England and Wales, storms and heavy rainfall overnight damaged buildings and caused travel delays.

The Met Office said this could be replaced later on Thursday with the year’s hottest temperature, replacing Wednesday’s high of 22.1C. The south-east of England may reach temperatures of 24C in the afternoon.

Two yellow weather warnings were issued for the UK by the Met Office, with heavy rain falling over parts of the country on Wednesday night. Storms hit the south-west of England and Wales , with a warning in place until 8am on Thursday. A warning in south-east England was extended to 10am on Thursday.

Lightning damage to the electricity supply on the rail line between Westbury and Castle Cary early on Thursday caused some trains to be cancelled. Lines have since reopened but National Rail warned that trains may still be cancelled, delayed or diverted “as service recovers”.

A care home in Elmer, Sussex, was hit by lightning which damaged the roof, while a university building in Chichester sustained damage to its roof and power system. West Sussex fire and rescue service said no one was injured from the strikes and that occupants were relocated to safety while the damage was assessed.

Marco Petagna, a meteorologist at the Met Office, said some places could experience their warmest temperatures of the year on Thursday. “After a night of storms, the rain will ease in the south of England for a while … We could see the skies brightening up in a few places and it will be another warm day. Parts of the south-east could even get to 24 degrees and beat today’s temperatures,” he told the PA news agency.

“But as the skies brighten and temperatures increase, this could spark a few more thundery showers in the afternoon, so it is likely to still be a bit unsettled and the forecast will be changeable over the next few days.”

The Met Office said the storms might cause travel disruption and some flooding, leading to “difficult driving conditions and some road closures”.

The north of England was expected to stay largely dry and warm while southern parts of the UK were hit by heavy rain.

The bank holiday weekend is expected to be a “very mixed picture”, said Petagna. Most areas are likely to experience some rain but temperatures will remain fairly warm, in the mid- to late-teens. On bank holiday Monday, showers are expected across the country.

Wednesday was the warmest day of 2024 so far, with a peak of 22.1C in Santon Downham in Suffolk.

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