TOP CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOWS
Even though it's freezing outdoors, visiting historical UK sites in the evening during the Festive season allows you to see lit up landscapes with vistas of dreamy, enchanting, bright light or spectacular colours flowing through the darkness. These pathways are intensely memorable and bring the Christmas period to life.
This year, there’s a variety of Christmas light displays for EVERYONE to enjoy. Here’s the best.
CHRISTMAS AT BLENHEIM PALACE
14th November 2025 - 3rd January 2026
It's the most wonderful time of the year when over a million lights, lasers, and seasonal music fill the air with festive excitement over the Palace's picture-perfect grounds. Explore glittering light tunnels, shimmering lakeside reflections, and jewel-like coloured trees while spending quality time together with family and friends. Take a time to reflect in front of the mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, stare up at the larger-than-life illuminations, and don't forget to get a glimpse of Father Christmas along the way. Their inventive individual street food vendors add a pleasant touch to the appetising menu items. After your walk beneath the stars, toast to a joyous, cheerful Christmas with a spiced winter warmer or a hot chocolate shared with someone special.
RHS Glow at Wisley
21st November 2025 – 4th January 2026
RHS Glow at Wisley transforms the renowned gardens into a captivating after-dark experience, with illuminated trails that highlight plants, landscapes and iconic garden features in a whole new light. As visitors follow the glowing route through the gardens, they’ll encounter striking light installations, rich colour displays and a festive winter atmosphere. Seasonal food and drink, fire pits and artisan stalls add to the experience, making Wisley Glow a memorable evening out for families, couples and anyone looking to enjoy the gardens differently during the festive season.
CHRISTMAS AT KEW, RICHMOND
14th November 2025 to 4th January 2026
Experience the magic of the UK's festive season at Christmas at Kew, a must-attend event to kickstart your Christmas celebrations or usher in the New Year. Immerse yourself in a botanical wonderland adorned with sparkling lights and the melodies of the season.
Explore enchanting tunnels of light, witness the dance of reflections on the lakeside, and marvel at trees adorned in jewel-like hues. Take a moment of contemplation amidst the mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, stroll beneath larger-than-life illuminations, and catch a glimpse of Father Christmas along your journey. Embrace the joy of the season at Christmas at Kew!
THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHT AT LONGLEAT
8th November 2025 - 11th January 2026
As the afternoons and evenings grow darker, an enchanting spectacle unfolds at Longleat House. Experience a dazzling light show meticulously synchronised to festive music, creating the perfect seasonal ambience. For the optimal view of Longleat House, follow the Garden Trail.
Be sure not to overlook the revitalised magic at Half Mile Pond! Prepare to be captivated by their newly enhanced 60m fountain display, now more grandiose than ever, adorned with a mesmerising array of dazzling lights.
Chelsea Winter Illuminations
26th November 2025 to 28th December 2025
Chelsea Winter Illuminations brings a 1.5 km immersive light trail to the historic grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, creating a magical festive experience in Central London. Visitors wander through a series of large-scale illuminated installations, interactive light features and captivating soundscapes that transform the gardens into a glowing winter wonderland. The experience continues in the Chelsea Winter Village, where seasonal bars, festive street food, artisan markets, live music and cosy firepits add to the atmosphere, making it a delightful winter night out for families, friends and couples alike.