The Christmas at Kew light trail is set to captivate visitors once again with the return of its much-loved festive event – renowned as the ‘UK’s leading illuminated light trail‘.
This year’s event promises to be more magical than ever – and as a festive trip for families to enjoy, there’s a lot to recommend it.
There’s a dazzling array of new installations and returning favourites transforming the iconic botanical gardens into a winter wonderland.
Christmas at Kew light trail: November 13 – January 5 2025 (selected dates – see below)
Mesmerising world of light
Visitors will embark on a journey through a mesmerising world of light, colour, and sound.
There are also two world premieres to enjoy as they take centre stage. They are:
- Ombre by TILT, featuring colossal, vibrant plant sculptures
- Threshold by Studio Vertigo, an illuminated helix-shaped installation that exudes festive warmth.
Here’s an excellent video to illustrate what visitors will enjoy:
The enchanting Christmas Cathedral
Among the returning favourites are the enchanting Christmas Cathedral and the breathtaking Palm House light show, to delight visitors.
The iconic Temperate House will be adorned with a spectacular light display, while Camellia Walk will be transformed into a snowy lane, complete with a canopy of shimmering lights.
As visitors wander through the gardens, they will encounter a range of immersive installations, from the playful Fish are Jumping by Dutch artists TOER to the ethereal Mist Arches by Culture Creative.
The trail will also feature towering pea lit trees, creating a magical atmosphere throughout the grounds.
The event is open every day from 4.20pm until 10pm and visitors choose a time slot for entry when they purchase a ticket the advance prices are:
- Adult from £25.50
- Family from £77
- Child 4 – 16 from £16
- Under 4s free
- Kew member from £21.50
- Peak/off-peak pricing also applies.
Indulge in a traditional Christmas dinner
To enhance the festive experience, visitors can indulge in a traditional Christmas dinner at The Botanical Brasserie or savour delicious treats from independent street food vendors.
In keeping with Kew’s commitment to sustainability, the event incorporates eco-friendly practices, such as using LED lighting and biofuel-powered generators.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, is dedicated to protecting plant and fungal life, and ticket sales contribute to this important mission.
Sandra Botterell, Kew’s director of marketing, said: “Christmas at Kew is always a much-anticipated highlight of the year, and this year’s trail is already shaping up to be a truly magical seasonal spectacle.
“With a selection of brand-new installations alongside firm favourites which have become iconic parts of the Christmas at Kew experience, we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors to enjoy the beauty of Kew Gardens by night.”
Tickets for Christmas at Kew are on sale now, with prices starting from £16 for children and £25.50 for adults.
Advance booking is essential, as the event is expected to be highly popular.
About Christmas at Kew:
Christmas at Kew runs on selected dates from Wednesday 13 November 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025 and is open on the following dates:
- Wednesday 13 November – Sunday 17 November 2024
- Wednesday 20 November – Sunday 24 November 2024
- Tuesday 26 November – Sunday 1 December 2024
- Tuesday 3 December – Tuesday 24 December 2024
- Thursday 26 December 2024 – Sunday 5 January 2025.
Location: Kew Gardens, London
Info: What’s on – Christmas at Kew
Opening times: 4.20pm – 10pm
Images: Copyright, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
