News Beat
Northumberland Christmas light trail beyond magic named best
Winter Lights at Alnwick Garden and Lilidorei, in Northumberland, is described as a “favourite” in the region, set within one of the country’s “finest” landscaped parks.
The dazzling and immersive display is said to offer a variety of “monumental” light installations, according to The Times, including the illuminated Oldest Tree.
Introducing its seasonal activity guide, the publisher wrote: “There’s something magical about the UK in winter — the scent of mulled wine, the crunch of frost underfoot and, above all, the glow of twinkling lights cutting through the long nights.
“Across the country, gardens, castles and parklands are transformed into glittering wonderlands where tunnels of colour, laser-lit trees and lantern trails bring festive cheer to even the chilliest evenings.
“Whether you’re wandering through illuminated woodlands at Kew, following firework trees in the Cotswolds or exploring the glowing glasshouses of Edinburgh, these light trails offer a perfect reason to wrap up warm and head outdoors.
“Pair your visit with a steaming hot chocolate and a cosy stay nearby to let the season shine a little brighter.”
Take a look at the best 19 winter light trails across the UK via The Times’ website.
Why is this Northumberland festive light trail among the UK’s best?
The Times shared: “Head to one of England’s finest landscaped parks this winter and among the rose gardens, treehouses and cherry orchards you’ll find all sorts of monumental light installations, including one that lights up the Oldest Tree, a gnarled sycamore more than 200 years old that has survived being struck by lightning twice.
“Also included is entry to the fairy-themed Lilidorei, touted as the world’s largest play structure.
“Continue the festivities later at the Tempus in Charlton Hall Estate, ten minutes away by car, which has a pop-up alpine tepee with Christmas-themed street food and drinks, and is also a short drive from Beadnell beach.”
Book your tickets to Winter Lights at Alnwick Garden and Lilidorei online.
Those who visited the “magical” festive light trail last year said it “really put us in the Christmas mood” and many who were left impressed hoped to return this year.
On Tripadvisor, this person commented: “We visited the Christmas lights at the gardens with my daughters and granddaughter. They were magical. Lots to see. The snow feature was loved by my granddaughter. Also little Christmassy movies dotted about. A great night.”
A second visitor posted: “The Christmas lights were beautiful. So well done and so lovely to walk through. The trees were magical and all the staff were welcoming and smiley! Loved it.”
One happy guest wrote: “We all had an amazing time visiting the garden tonight. The layout was fantastic. Entering via the maze, then onto a fogging path with lights, onto an area where you could move the lights on the ground. The kids loved the sweet shop and onto the area where it was snowing! Great highlight. If you see a red press me button press it!
“Lots going on, lots to see, at the end of the walk watched the synchronised lights with music. Food was fabulous. Staff very friendly. Definitely booking up for next Christmas. Well worth the money.”
Meanwhile, this account complimented: “We visited the Christmas light trail yesterday with our 4 month old, we didn’t know what to expect but heard great things, wow what an incredible night it was! So much more than we expected especially for the price, we were fascinated and it really put us in the Christmas mood.
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“We especially loved the sweet shop, snow area and the icicles but all of it was just beyond magical. Couldn’t have asked for more and will be returning every year without a doubt.”
Please note that dogs are not allowed in Alnwick Garden or Lilidorei (except for registered assistance and guide dogs).
Winter Lights at Alnwick Garden and Lilidorei, Northumberland, runs from November 20 until January 4.
