Luminescence winter light trail returns to Swinton Estate

Swinton Park Hotel, near Ripon, will host the Luminescence winter light trail for a second year, transforming its 200-acre grounds into a glowing night-time experience.

The immersive event features illuminated displays, elemental landscapes, and magical realms designed to captivate visitors of all ages.

Felicity Cunliffe-Lister, the co-owner of Swinton Estate and the architect behind the Luminesce Trail, said: “We welcomed over 8000 guests last year during our first season and this year promises even more than before for guests staying on the Estate or visiting for the day. This brings the dark winters evenings to life – we’re really looking forward to it.”

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This is the second year for the event. (Image: Pic supplied)

The trail will run from October 31, 2026, to February 21, 2027, and will be open every Saturday and Sunday, as well as daily during the Christmas and February school holidays.

Additional dates in December will also be available to meet demand.

Luminescence has expanded this year to include 11 new attractions, and the lakeside firepit seating area has doubled in size.

The first such event was last year. (Image: Pic supplied)

Visitors can explore scenes such as the Birdcage Walk, featuring 100 illuminated birdcages accompanied by birdsong, and A Night at the Oscars, complete with chandeliers and a touch of Hollywood glamour.

The experience is designed for families and includes playful, interactive elements such as a glowing wishing tree and an installation called the End of the Rainbow.

Guests can toast marshmallows by the fire and enjoy hot chocolate, with mulled wine available for adults.

Swinton Park Hotel is offering extended experiences, including cream tea, lunch, dinner, or drinks either in the castle or at The Terrace in the Swinton Country Club.

There will be a mile long trail of light installations. (Image: Pic supplied)

Tickets are priced at £19 for adults and £11 for children during peak periods, with off-peak tickets costing £17 for adults and £7.50 for children.

Admission is free for children under five.

Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be kept on leads.

Swinton Estate has partnered with Access the Dales to offer two tramper wheelchairs for disabled visitors.

These need to be booked in advance, via their website, to ensure availability alongside an accessible ticket to the trail, and are provided free of charge.

Something to look forward to on the darker nights. (Image: Pic supplied)

Parking is complimentary for all guests.

All tickets must be purchased online at www.swintonestate.com.

Swinton Estate, located in Masham near Ripon, is one of the UK’s largest privately owned estates.

A colourful spectacle is promised at Swinton Estate. (Image: Pic supplied)

It offers a range of accommodations including a hotel, self-catering cottages, and a glamping site.

8,000 guests saw the light show last year (Image: Pic supplied)

The estate features heritage parkland, woodland, lakes, and a resident fallow deer herd.

Outdoor activities available on the estate include wild swimming, clay pigeon shooting, birds of prey experiences, fly-fishing, cycling, and walking.

Have you been to Swinton Estate? What did you think? Did you also see the lights last year? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.