Updated for 2024. This is a collection of Christmas light trails in the Midlands this winter. The ideal activity to get the family in the festive spirit. Wrap up warm, embrace the season and enjoy a hot chocolate as you explore some of our most loved attractions after dark.
Most of these light trails are ticketed events and you can follow the links to book and find out more. In general my advice would be to wear wellies as lots of these trails end up getting very busy with footfall affecting paths and routes. Lots of these places sell lanterns and flashing toys so if you can take a trip to Poundland in advance to get some sort of torch or toy it might save you some money. I also like to buy a box of candy canes and whip these out as a treat en route rather than pay for expensive treats.
Be mindful that lots of these places have multiple attractions which have additional fees, such as ice skating rinks, Santa’s grottos and such.
I have also noticed that lots of places have peak pricing structures, so have stated this where applicable. The cheapest tickets I have found are often weeknights and in November or post Christmas.
Webbs Enchanted Garden
Our personal favourite at Webbs of Wychbold last year the riverside gardens were transformed in to a fairytale haven. This year promises to be even more spectacular. You can go all out and book an igloo pod for a family treat – and then don’t forget to go and explore the garden centre and the Christmas displays too.
Tickets from £10 kids/ £16 adults and under twos free.
Webbs review post with more info
Attwell Farm Park
Dates: 23rd Nov 2024 – 5th Jan 2025
Attwell Farm Park is a charming, family-friendly venue, and its Christmas light trail is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Wander through the magical displays that light up the farm, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. The park is home to a variety of animals, making it a great destination for all ages, with plenty of opportunities to meet the animals and enjoy seasonal treats. The light trail adds a touch of enchantment, offering a beautiful way to end a visit to this lovely farm park.
Tickets from £14.95 kids and £15.95 adults – under 1s free of charge
The Illuminated Arboretum
This event at the National Memorial Arboretum is simply stunning. With the extensive 150 acres of woodland full of beautiful lights it’s a wonderful walk and really shows the grounds off in their best light. There’s always something new to spot, the lights on the trees and the natural surroundings are stunning. This one mile route is a lovely one for little legs. Relaxed sessions are available which is a lovely inclusive touch. Check the website for details.
- The Illuminated Arboretum route is around 1 mile long, starting around 200m from the entrance to the Remembrance Centre, and goes past many beautifully lit memorials to those who have served and sacrificed for the country
- Once you have entered, you are welcome to stay and walk the route as many times as you like until the Arboretum closes at 9.30pm.? If you would like to visit the Remembrance Centre and then re-enter the route, just let a member of the Arboretum team at the ticket check in know, and they’ll give you a wristband
Kids £15 adults £25 and under 5s free
Winter Glow UK
Based at the Three Counties Showground. This year’s light trail is called “A Christmas Odyssey” and they also host a wonderful ice rink and a big wheel. The terrain here is flat so it’s a nice one for little legs but this place can get extremely busy and crowded due to its popularity. I would suggest looking at an off peak visit and booking all the attractions to make the most of your day.
Tickets from £9.50 kids and £19.50 adults – under 3’s are free.
BeWILDerwood Cheshire – A Sparkly Light & Panto Trail
Dates: 30th Nov – 23rd Dec 2024
BeWILDerwood’s enchanting woodland transforms into a festive wonderland with its Sparkly Light & Panto Trail. Wander through magical illuminated paths, meet quirky characters, and enjoy a whimsical Christmas experience perfect for the whole family.
£17.50 for all ages
Belton House NT
Dates: 22nd Nov 2024 – 1st Jan 2025
Belton House is a grand and historic venue that comes alive with festive illuminations each year. The light trail takes visitors on a magical journey through the beautiful grounds, highlighting the estate’s stunning architecture and gardens. The event also features Christmas markets, seasonal food stalls, and a chance to meet Santa, making it a fantastic outing for families. With its historic charm and festive atmosphere, Belton House is a highlight of the Christmas season in the East Midlands.
Peak pricing structure – audits from £22.50 and kids from £16.00
Warwick Castle
One of our most beloved attractions in the midlands. Christmas at the Castle hosts all manner of festive themed events which includes an evening light trail which takes you around the grounds to see the castle and green spaces from a whole new perspective. Take a peek inside the great hall for one of the most breathtaking Christmas trees, enjoy ice skating and the street food and market in the shadow of the castle for all sorts of unique gifts and tastes.
From £17.50 per person. Under 3’s are free. Additional tickets required for different attractions
Luminate Live – Botanical Gardens
This groundbreaking events company are bringing their A game to the light trail game this season, hosting 8 different trails across the U.K. and here in the midlands we are lucky to be home to three fabulous events. Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Coombe Abbey and Shugborough Hall. Each of these venues is spectacular in their own right and even better – Luminate will be planting a tree on behalf of every booking.
Adults from £15 and kids from £10 with peak pricing structure and online discounts available.
Coombe Country Park
Dates: 30th Nov – 31st Dec 2024
Coombe Country Park’s Christmas light trail is a festive delight set in the heart of this stunning park. The beautifully illuminated trails wind through woodlands and gardens, offering visitors a chance to experience nature’s beauty under the glow of thousands of twinkling lights. The festive displays are complemented by Christmas-themed activities and treats, making it the perfect outing for families looking to embrace the season in a peaceful and scenic environment.
Adults from £15 and kids from £10 with peak pricing structure and online discounts available.
National Trust – Shugborough Estate
Dates: 29th Nov – 31st Dec 2024
Shugborough Estate is transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland for Christmas, with its iconic buildings and beautiful grounds lit up by thousands of twinkling lights. The estate’s rich history and picturesque settings make for a magical backdrop as you stroll through the light displays. With an enchanting mix of festive installations, seasonal treats, and family-friendly activities, Shugborough offers a memorable and magical experience for visitors of all ages.
Adults from £15 and kids from £10 with peak pricing structure and online discounts available.
Biddulph Grange Garden
Dates: 30th Nov – 29th Dec 2024
Biddulph Grange Garden’s light trail is a must-see this Christmas, as the garden is transformed into a sparkling wonderland of colour and light. Wander through themed displays, including illuminated trees and light sculptures, and enjoy the festive atmosphere throughout the garden. The Victorian gardens, with their unique design, offer a stunning and tranquil setting for a Christmas evening out. This event is a lovely choice for those looking for a more relaxed but equally enchanting festive experience.
Adults £15 and children £10
Himley Hall – Festive Light Trail
Dates: 24th Nov – 23rd Dec 2024
Himley Hall’s Festive Light Trail takes you through its stunning grounds, filled with glowing installations, twinkling paths, and magical displays. Perfect for a family evening out, the trail is accompanied by festive food stalls and warming drinks.
Adults £19.50 and kids £15.10 (under 3’s free)
Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Light
Dates: 22nd Nov – 30th Dec 2024
Sudeley Castle, nestled in the Cotswolds, becomes a magical destination during the Christmas season with its Spectacle of Light. This dazzling light trail takes you through the castle grounds and gardens, which are beautifully illuminated with festive displays. Enjoy a festive evening filled with lights, music, and seasonal food, all set against the backdrop of this historic castle. It’s a must-see for those seeking a dazzling light show in an incredible setting.
Tickets from £20
Cotswold Farm Park
Dates: Fridays & weekends from 22nd Nov – 31st Dec 2024
We love Adam Hensons Farm Park, this year an eternal blizzard of snow and ice has befallen the Farm Park. Mysterious creatures have appeared in the woodland. Three of their little piglets report sounds of a witch’s cackle. Strawberry the cow claims she’s seen a beaver’s den. The Highland bull, Prince, says he’s been invited to a dance in the palace. I think this one will be a huge hit with the little ones! Witness the magical transformation and explore the illuminated barns, paddocks and woodland this winter.
Alongside the light trail, CFP will also have a Father Christmas experience. Included in the visit is:
- Personalised visit with Father Christmas in his winter grotto
- Special make-a-bear activity led by our Elves
- Festive gingerbread decorating (daytime) or toasting S’mores at our crackling – firepits (evening)
- A magical coin token to choose a gift from our Festive Shop
- Entry to the Farm Park (daytime) or Enchanted Light Trail (evening)
Further information can be found here: https://cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk/christmas/
Tickets £12 toddlers / £16 kids / £25 adults
Enlightened Leicester Abbey Park
Dates: 29th Nov – 24th Dec 2024
Leicester’s Abbey Park is illuminated like never before with the Enlightened light trail. The park, which has a rich history and beautiful landscape, is transformed with glowing displays and interactive features. Enjoy an enchanting walk through the park, with festive lights lighting up the trees and pathways. Perfect for a family evening out, this light trail offers an affordable and accessible way to enjoy some Christmas magic in the heart of Leicester.
Adults from £18.50 and kids from £12.50
Telford Town Park Festive Winter Gardens
Dates: 13th – 21st Dec 2024
Telford Town Park’s Festive Winter Gardens is a must-visit for those seeking a whimsical and fun-filled Christmas experience. This annual event features sparkling light displays that transform the park’s beautiful gardens into a winter wonderland. Stroll through the illuminated paths, visit Santa’s grotto, and enjoy the various Christmas-themed activities that take place throughout the event. With festive performances, delicious treats, and family-friendly fun, the Winter Gardens offer a magical atmosphere for all.
Family tickets £8 for up to five people adults £2.50 and kids £1.50
Lincoln Castle
Dates: 29th Nov – 23rd Dec 2024
Lincoln Castle becomes even more enchanting at Christmas with its stunning light displays. The castle’s medieval architecture provides the perfect backdrop for a magical light trail that takes you through the castle grounds and gardens. The event features plenty of festive activities, including Christmas markets, food stalls, and the chance to meet Santa. Lincoln Castle’s Christmas light trail is a wonderful way to combine history with holiday cheer for a family-friendly festive outing.
Adults £11.50 and kids £6.50
Lights of Abraham
Dates: 22nd Nov – 30th Dec 2025
The Lights of Abraham at the Heights of Abraham in Derbyshire offers a unique way to experience Christmas from above. Take a ride on the illuminated cable cars, offering breathtaking views of the valley below, all while surrounded by festive lights. The experience also includes light displays set throughout the estate, with plenty of seasonal activities and entertainment to enjoy. This is an extraordinary event for anyone looking for something different this Christmas.
Adults £21 and children £15
Trentham Gardens
This estate is stunning all year round and the fairy trail always feels magical. This year the gardens will be transformed again as a stunning light trail is placed all around Trentham Estate. We love this one because you can also explore the shopping village and all it has to offer, pick up some great stocking fillers in the garden centre and maybe some treats for yourself too.
Kids £17 / adults £22 – peak pricing structures apply
Christmas at Belton House
A Brand new light trail bought to the National Trust venue. Christmas at Belton promises to be even more magical this year, with a new after-dark illuminated trail transforming the gardens with over a million twinkling lights and seasonal sounds. There’s also a mini fairground here with a carousel which is the perfect Xmas selfie opportunity.
Kids £15 / adults £21.50 – car parking not included.
Delapré Abbey Winter Light Trail
Dates: 22nd Nov – 31st Dec 2024
Delapré Abbey in Northamptonshire is the perfect place to experience a festive light trail in a historical setting. The Winter Light Trail meanders through the abbey’s stunning grounds, with each turn revealing beautiful and creative light installations. Along with the light displays, visitors can enjoy seasonal food and drinks, making it a cosy and festive experience. This charming event is perfect for those looking to explore a stunning historic site in a whole new light this Christmas. Bought to you by the same team as Trentham this promises to be special.
Adults from £17 and kids from £13.50
The perfect Christmas at Blenheim Palace
Dates: 15th Nov 2024 – 1st Jan 2025
A little further south but one of the UK’s Christmas highlights is the experience at Blenheim Palace. The picture perfect gardens form the backdrop for one of the most beautiful trails in the country. Look forward to some time together with family and friends as you discover glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour. For a moment of reflection, pause at mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, larger-than-life illuminations and don’t forget to glimpse Father Christmas along the way. With a market, street food and all sorts of other activities to enjoy this promises to be fun for all the family
Adults £25 / kids £18
Chatsworth House Christmas in the Garden
Dates: 9th Nov 2024 – 5th Jan 2025
Chatsworth House is a truly majestic location, and during Christmas, it becomes even more spectacular with its Christmas in the Garden event. Explore the grand estate, which is beautifully illuminated with festive lights and decorations. The Christmas market is filled with seasonal treats and unique gifts, while the light trail guides you through the gardens in an unforgettable experience. Tickets in November include access to the market. With its stunning architecture, enchanting gardens, and festive displays, Chatsworth House and Garden is a must-see this holiday season. Tickets included access to the house, gardens, farmyard, playground and one car parking spot.
Tickets for adults from £32 and kids from £8
Christmas at Wollaton Light Trail
Thu event has unfortunately been cancelled this year – very limited information as to why.
