Visiting a Christmas Light trail has become a firm family tradition for many and you are spoilt for choice in the Cotswolds. From an arboretum to a Castle, a farm to a Palace, colourful, sparkling trials will add a touch of magic to your Christmas. Don’t hang around – the trails are very popular with tickets selling like hot cakes!
At Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury, the elves have been tasked with decorating the trees for Christmas. The Winter Wonderland features disco balls, talking trees, cheeky elves and interactive displays for children. The trail takes 45 – 90 minutes to complete and there are refreshments available and a Christmas village with traditional fairground rides
Westonbirt’s trail runs from from 24 – 25 November, 1 – 2 December, 8 – 9 December, 15 – 17 December, 19 – 23 December between 4.00pm and 9.30pm. Entry: Adults £21, Children £14 Advanced booking essential with timed entry slots. More information here
The 15th Century Sudeley Castle, near Winchcombe, provides a wonderful backdrop for its annual Spectacle of light. The trail, this year themed on The Wizard of Oz runs through the castle grounds. A light wave will light up the Mulberry Lawn, while in the Queen’s garden will be lit up with flickering fire flowers. Sparkling water features and Harlequin trees will delight. The trail takes between and hour and an hour and a half to walk around with refreshments on sale halfway round.
Entry £24 adults, £12 children. Advanced booking required. Runs from 24 – 26 November, 1 – 3 December, 7 – 10 December, 14 – 23 December, 27 – 30 December 2023 Each evening the Spectacle is a continuous experience with entry time slots from 4.45 pm onwards.
More information here
Blenheim Palace’s magical Christmas light trail combines twinkling lights, seasonal sounds and festive fun with a glimpse of the main man himself, Father Christmas, along the way. There are plenty of photo opportunities with glowing tunnels and even an 8 metre sphere filled with over 20,000 moving lights! The dancing reflections in the colourful cascades are a sight to behold. The Palace itself will be themed around the classic fairytale of Sleeping Beauty, whilst an enormous Christmas Tree will grace The Great Hall. There will also be a Christmas Market in the Great Court with a seasonal village made from wooden chalets selling everything from Christmas gifts to tasty treats.
The Blenheim Palace trail runs from 17 – 19 November, 22 – 26 November, 29th November – 1st January. Prices vary depending on how many attractions you visit. For more information here
The Cotswold Farm Park Enchanted Light Trail has light displays inspired by different animals and also features real animals to feed on the way in beautifully decorated barns. There are fire pits to toast marshmallows over and a café and gift shop. The trail takes from an hour to an hour and a half.
Runs from 24 – 26 November, 1 – 3 December, 8 – 10 December, 15 – 17 December, 20 – 23 December, 28 – 31 December 2023 with start times between 4pm and 7pm. Pre-booking is once again advised. Adults £21.95, children £16.50, toddlers £11.50. More information here
The Painswick Rococo Garden, a hidden gem in the Cotswolds, is opening by night for the first time this year. Willow sculptures of mythical creatures will be illuminated with sparkling lights. Glowing stars will light your way to explore the follies, sculptures, statues and winding paths of this unique garden. Seasonal treated and winter warmers of hot chocolate or mulled wine will also be available.
The Rococo Garden trail runs from 7 – 10 December, 14 – 17 December, 20 – 23 December, 27 – 30 December 2023 with start times between 4pm and 6pm. Adults £15, children £8. More information here
Daisy Chain on the Lower Mill Estate makes a perfect base for visiting Christmas light trails across the Cotswolds. When are you coming to visit?