Here are Alice’s tips for visiting Christmas light shows.

Book ahead

Put a reminder in your calendar and book early, or sign up to mailing lists to be notified when tickets are released. It’s best to start looking around July, but you’ll need to be earlier if you want to get good Saturday slots at popular places like Kew Gardens.

Book your transport at the same time

Don’t forget to book the shuttle bus or other transportation options at the same time you buy light show tickets, as they often sell out too. 

Make an afternoon or day of it

If you have to select an entry time, give yourself a couple of hours before dusk to enjoy the grounds and other attractions before the light trail. For example, you may want to visit the animals at Longleat before seeing the Christmas lights. Usually, you can stay until closing time, so there’s no need to enter after dark and end up rushing. 

If you want to make a day of it, look out for gardens with a house too. Venues like Blenheim Palace and Waddesdon Manor transform their rooms into a magical winter wonderland, which is also handy if the weather turns. 

Check the other attractions

If you’re visiting with young children, why not choose a light trail with extra attractions? For instance, Longleat has a Santa Train, a Winter Sarari and a Festive Bird Show, alongside the Festive House Tour and outdoor Light Show. 

Make the most of the markets too. Many Christmas light show trails run festive markets and food stalls at the same time, so it’s a great opportunity to pick up some delicious treats and gifts while you’re there. 

Expect to pay

It’s worth bearing in mind that you may still need to pay full price for light trail tickets at National Trust sites or other types of venues, even if you’re a member. However membership can get you reduced price tickets – this is the case at the RHS gardens such as Wisley and Hyde Hall, for example. At some places, such as the Eden Project, the light experience is included in the price of an admission ticket.

Become an RHS member to get reduced-price tickets and free entry to over 200 other gardens.

Dress warmly – and brightly

Wear wellies (and warm socks). You may be sticking to marked paths, but well-trodden shortcuts over lawns can quickly become mud pits, so you’ll be thankful for easy-clean shoes. 

Wear something brightly coloured so you can find each other in dark, crowded spots.

Prepare for rain – bring a brolly or poncho just in case.

The temperature can drop a lot after dark, so you’ll be grateful for a long, warm coat. Check out our favourite warm coats and showerproof jackets.

If possible, swap bulky rucksacks for cross-body bags, as some houses ask you to remove backpacks.

Check the refreshments

Bring flasks, whether you want to take hot chocolate, mulled wine or spiced apple with you, or pick up some refreshments along the way.

Bring a fold-up chair

There isn’t always seating available, so bring a fold-up stool or chair if you’re with someone who’ll need to rest throughout the evening.  

If the thought of Christmas light festivals has reminded you about your impending Christmas shopping list, be sure to take a look at our list of 100 gardening gift ideas.