Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, in Gloucestershire, is set to unveil an enchanting new festive light trail this winter.
The dazzling display promises to be a visual treat for everyone, featuring luminescent birds, neon-lit trees, glowing stars, a radiant tunnel of light, and a forest ablaze with vibrant colours.
There will also be the chance for families and friends to catch a glimpse of Father Christmas himself.
In collaboration with Forestry England, the creative minds behind the illustrious light trails at Kew Gardens and Blenheim Palace, are also bringing this unique spectacle to life. Scheduled to run from Friday, November 29 to Tuesday, December 31, 2024, the event is poised to become a highlight of the Christmas season.
As visitors meander through the illuminated trail, they’ll also be able to purchase hot beverages and tasty snacks* from selected street food vendors. The Christmas Village will offer an array of tempting treats and fantastic gifts too, perfect for holiday shopping.
Matthew Findlay, head of UK trails at Sony Music, said: “We’re thrilled and hugely excited to be collaborating with Forestry England to produce a spectacular new festive trail, which will be an unforgettable addition to the Christmas calendar.
“Quite literally, it will show the arboretum at Westonbirt in a new light and visitors can expect a collection of beautifully designed illuminations, choreographed to seasonal sounds which will fill the evening air.”
Zoe Tyler, events manager at Westonbirt with Forestry England, added: “We’re looking forward to working with Sony Music, which has given us a great opportunity to host a spectacular light experience, making the most of our unique collection of stunning trees.
“We’re also excited to see the amazing new installations and believe all our visitors will enjoy Christmas at Westonbirt over 23 nights this winter.”
The festive trail is designed with limited capacity and timed entry slots, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Early booking is recommended to secure preferred dates and times.
*Separate charges apply
About Westonbirt Arboretum
Managed by Forestry England, Westonbirt Arboretum is popular for its extensive tree and shrub collection.
Spanning roughly 243 hectares (600 acres), the arboretum boasts nearly 15,000 labelled specimens and hosts five national collections.
With an annual visitor count of approximately 500,000 and a membership exceeding 32,000, Westonbirt has a rich history dating back to its establishment in the 1850s by Robert Holford.
Unlike many arboreta that are organised scientifically or geographically, Westonbirt is arranged based on aesthetic appeal.
About Forestry England
Forestry England oversees the management and conservation of approximately 1,500 woods and forests across the UK, having welcomed more than 291m visits between 2022 and 2023 alone.
As one of the largest land managers in England, the organisation plays a crucial role in shaping landscapes that benefit people, wildlife, and businesses alike.