The National Trust’s Wimpole Estate’s festive light trail sees the popular estate will be transformed into a winter paradise this Christmas, with an illuminated walk set to enchant visitors.
Sony Music’s Christmas at Wimpole returns for its fourth year and promises more than a million twinkling lights, seasonal sounds and stunning new illuminated light trail installations.
By day, the historic Mansion House will be decked out in festive splendour, offering visitors the chance to enjoy Christmas carols, delicious food and drink.
However, it’s the after-dark experience that truly steals the show.
Wimpole Estate festive light trail: November 22 2024 to January 1 2025
Immerse yourself in a world of wonder
That’s when guests can immerse themselves in a world of wonder as they wander through the estate, discovering neon trees, giant glowing flowers and a mesmerising two-colour pea-lit tree.
There’s also a sparkling tunnel and a rainbow of lights complete the magical atmosphere.
To satisfy hunger pangs, a selection of street food vendors will offer tempting treats, perfect for enjoying with a spiced winter warmer, hot chocolate or toasted marshmallow.
However, the team at Christmas.co.uk would recommend you take your own snacks or a picnic to help keep down the costs of what could be an expensive family outing.
Also, we know from experience that festive light trails can be very busy – even with selected time slots – so it might be worth going early to look around the hall and home farm.
This is also a great incentive/bribe to get youngsters enthusiastic about visiting a stately home – they might think they are boring but none of them are – with the promise of a stunning light festival to enjoy afterwards.
There’s limited capacity for the event and with timed access, organisers say early booking is advisable.
Finest country house in Cambridgeshire
Wimpole Estate – said to be the finest country house in Cambridgeshire – was bequeathed to the National Trust by Elsie Bambridge.
The estate boasts a rich history with notable owners and architects and the grand house features the works of James Gibbs and Sir John Soane.
Visitors can also explore the surrounding parkland which was designed by renowned landscape architects like Humphrey Repton and Capability Brown.
During the day, visitors can enjoy the grand Hall, pleasure grounds and Walled Garden.
There’s also a chance to enjoy a meal or snack at one of the estate’s eateries or browse the unique shop selling local produce.
The estate offers a variety of walks around the landscaped park, including a multiuser trail.
More information about the festive light trail at Wimpole Estate
When: From 22 November to 1 January 2025 – open from 4.30pm, last entry 8pm
Admission: Off-Peak: Adult £17, Child (3-16) £10, Family (2 adults & 2 children) £47. Standard: Adult £21.50, Child £15, Family £70. Peak: Adult £24, Child £18, Family £81.
Free entry for carers and infants aged 2 and under.
Parking £8 per car. Free to National Trust members if booked before the day of the visit.
Address: Wimpole Estate, Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW.
Wimpole Estate festive light trail website.
Image credits © Sony Music
