There’s an enchanting after-dark experience which promises festive magic for all ages at the National Trust’s Stourhead’s Christmas light trail.
That’s when it is transformed into a winter wonderland as the dazzling light trail illuminates the Wiltshire landscape.
Award-winning light trail creators are behind the magical experience, which will feature a sea of shimmering lights across the lake, towering, illuminated feathers and a vibrant tunnel of colour.
Guests can also indulge in festive treats from street food vendors and warm up with hot drinks.
Stourhead Christmas light trail: November 29 2024 to January 1, 2025
Tickets are available for most days – not Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, for example. Check the ticket link for availability.
Christmas at Stourhead is a festive tradition
Created by award-winning experts, Christmas at Stourhead is a festive tradition enjoyed by many people.
They get to share unforgettable moments with loved ones as they explore the magical trail, even catching a glimpse of Father Christmas.
Experience the wonder firsthand though tickets are limited for timed entry.
The approximately one-mile trail takes around 90 minutes to complete. Dress warmly and comfortably as the event is outdoors and queues may occur.
Onsite parking requires advanced booking; National Trust members park for free, while non-members pay a fee.
Very popular National Trust site
Stourhead is a Palladian house and a very popular National Trust site and home to diverse wildlife and the carefully managed Christmas light trail has a minimal impact.
There are ecological surveys, biofuel use, and thoughtful design to protect bat roosts, animals and ancient trees.
The Christmas light trail follows garden paths, which can be steep in places – and the paths are maintained daily.
There are unique markers like lights or barriers to help guide visitors.
A living work of art
First time visitors to Stourhead might like to know that when it first opened in the 1740s, one publication described it as ‘a living work of art’.
The landscaped garden is world famous with a magnificent lake at the centre piece reflecting classical temples, exotic and rare trees and mystical grottoes.
The house is set among ‘picnic perfect’ lawns and 2,650 acres of parkland where chalk downs, farmland and ancient woods are managed for wildlife.
Christmas at Stourhead has been created by the National Trust in partnership with Sony Music and Culture Creative.
Christmas at Stourhead and its festive light trail
When: From November 29 2024-January 1, 2025. Open from 4.30pm, last entry 8pm and closes at 10pm.
Admission: Off-peak: Adult £15, Child £10 (Age 3-16); Family £47 (2 adults + 2 children). Standard: Adult £22.50, Child £16, Family £74. Peak: Adult £24, Child £18, Family £80. Parking £8 per car. Free for National Trust members when booked in advance.
Address: Stourhead, Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6SH
Christmas lights at Stourhead website.
Image credits © Sony Music/National Trust
