Does anything make you feel more Christmassy than the twinkling of a good Christmas lights display? Whether it’s the chaotic flashing of your neighbour’s home or a professional show when the Christmas lights are up, you realise the big day is well and truly just around the corner.
If you’re looking for some sparkle in the run-up to the 25th of December, these are the best Christmas lights displays you can visit in the UK.
Christmas at the Botanics – Edinburgh
With trees draped in lights, reflections dancing off of the water, and huge illuminations flickering in the fire garden, Christmas at the Botanics is a must-see if you’re in the Edinburgh area. Street food vendors are on hand to bring you winter treats as you wander around and explore the garden’s stunning Christmas lights trail.
Christmas at Wimpole – Wimpole
Newly opening in 2021, Christmas at Wimpole changes from winter wander trail by day to majestic Christmas lights display by night. Explore stunning tunnels of lights, trees lit up with dazzling rainbow colours and sparkling larger-than-life reindeer. The eagle-eyed might even be able to spot Santa along the way.
Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland – Bournemouth
Giant teddy bears and gingerbread people might sound like your idea of a nightmare during the day, but at night the Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland turns them into a festive dream. The main attraction is the 60ft Wonderland tree, but a Christmas tree trail, outdoor ice rink, and alpine Christmas market make it a great evening out for the whole family.
Christmas at Powderham Castle – Exeter
Spanning a mile over Powderham Castle’s grounds and gardens, Christmas at the Castle is one of the biggest and most spectacular Christmas light trails in the UK. The castle itself looks even more majestic than usual, lit up with bright colours and surrounded by beautifully decorated trees. The trail leads to the Secret Garden with animals, drinks, and snacks, while the barn becomes a magical market by night.
Christmas at Kew – London
Kew Gardens is a special place all year round, but at Christmas, it transforms into something even more magical. Christmas at Kew is packed full of light-filled tunnels and huge, sparkling trees, and huge illuminations. Street vendors line the trail with your favourite festive snacks, such as sweet treats and hot chocolate.
Lightwater Valley Alice in Wonderland Illuminations – North Stainley
One of the best themed Christmas lights plays in the UK, the Alice in Wonderland Christmas Lights Trail at Lightwater Valley turns the classic story into a festive festival. Visit the giant illuminated sculptures of your favourite characters, including Alice, The Mad Hatter, and The Queen of Hearts. Take part in fun and games at the fairground and indulge in some tasty treats at the event’s food stands.
Christmas at Blenheim – Blenheim
Christmas at Blenheim is a Christmas display with over a million lights, lasers, and seasonal sounds running through the Palace’s gardens. Huge illuminations stand tall against trees drenched in lights for a complete Christmas experience. Discover your favourite festive characters in the toymaker’s workshop, Land of Snow, and Kingdom of Sweets – new to the Palace’s rooms.
Christmas at Killerton – Killerton
Something magical happens at Killerton after dark at Christmas time. Over a million lights sparkle to illuminate the Christmas at Killerton trail, offering stunning light displays. The whole gardens are lit up in bright blue, orange, and green to give the ultimate festive feel. Discover the whole display with a Christmas treat, whether it’s a glass of mulled wine or a hot chocolate.
Christmas at Wollaton Hall – Nottingham
As Christmas gets closer and twilight descends, Wollaton Hall turns into a world of light and magic. Christmas at Wollaton Hall is a train that transforms the 16th-century house into festive heaven, with stunning light tunnels, illuminated trees and buildings, and the famous centrepiece tree. Explore the grounds and discover animal illuminations along the way, from bunny rabbits to bears.
Christmas at Kingston Lacy – Kingston Lacy
With huge illuminations, a fire garden, and sparkling trees reflecting off of the water, Christmas at Kingston Lacy is a must-visit for anyone in Dorset. Giant baubles hang from the trees, and huge tunnels of light illuminate your way through the trail. Don’t forget to grab a hot chocolate or festive treat on your way around.
Christmas at Gibside – Gibside
Christmas at Gibside is packed full of dazzling lights, lasers, and music to get you into the festive spirit before Christmas. The Christmas lights display includes tunnels of light, giant illuminated baubles, sparkling trees, and even Santa himself. Share a toasted marshmallow and hot chocolate with your loved ones as you discover all that the Gibside trail has to offer.
If you’re planning a trip to one of the best Christmas lights displays in the UK, don’t forget to book an Advance ticket via our website or our Train Tickets app for zero booking fees. You can also find information on how to get cheaper train tickets via our special offers page. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
The UK is bursting with fun activities. Whether you’re visiting one of the best castles in the UK, the best theme parks in the UK, or the best waterparks in the UK, you can always travel by train. CrossCountry has services running up and down the country to ensure you can get to the places you need to be.