Hi Peter and welcome back to planDisney. It's so lovely to see you here again with another great question about your upcoming visit to my favourite holiday destination -
Walt Disney World!
I completely understand the confusion around booking
Lightning Lane Passes from here, in the UK. When Lightning Lane Passes were first introduced, back in October 2024, it was not possible for UK Guests to purchase them via the UK version of the Walt Disney World website or,
My Disney Experience Mobile App.
And, although the UK version of the Walt Disney World website still states that Lightning Lane Passes can only be bought 7 days in advance, upon arrival in the US, I can tell you that I was, in actual fact, able to book them for my past two visits in both August and October 2025, 7 days in advance, from at home, here in the UK.
For this reason, I don't anticipate that you'll experience any difficulties in purchasing Lightning Lane Passes, 7-days in advance of your arrival date. Please do, however, bear in mind that things are always subject to change.
I hope that this has put your mind at rest, Peter and that you have a fantastic time when you visit, in early January. Talk about kicking the New Year off in style! I honestly can't think of any better place to spend the first few weeks of the year.
If we can be of any further help with the planning of your trip, please feel free to re-visit us, here at planDisney, where we will be only too happy to assist.
Wishing you a magical holiday filled with memories which will last a lifetime!
Emma