This article contains one or more affiliate links. If you follow one of these links, and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

The best festive illuminated trails in the UK 2022

Christmas at the Botanics

Check out the UK's most magical displays of Christmas lights at these enchanting illuminated trails

There are dozens of things which have come to characterise the festive period, and one which best epitomises the season is the awe-inspiring displays of Christmas lights put on display every year. Draped over buildings, street lamps, trees and houses, there's nothing quite so enchanting like thousands of twinkling lights illuminating the landscape with a warm and comforting glow.

With enchanting tunnels of light, giant baubles and towering trees glistening with colour, these light displays at various National Trust sites throughout the UK are sure to transport you to a magical winter wonderland.

Don't miss out on the inviting fire gardens, huge illuminations and even the opportunity to catch a glimpse at Father Christmas! There will be a range of independent street vendors at most sites as well as festive treats such as hot chocolate, toasted marshmallows or spiced winter warmers.

Read below to find your nearest illuminated trail and check out details on tickets, dates and prices.

Christmas at Belton

Grantham - Christmas At Belton

Boastin over a million lights, the illumination trail at the enchanting Belton House in Grantham will run from Thursday 24 November to Sunday 1 January and tickets are available to book now.

Dorset - Christmas At Kingston Lacy

The trail at Kingston Lacy near Dorset will run from Friday 2 December to Saturday 24 December and tickets are available to book now.

Edinburgh - Christmas At The Botanics

This illuminated trail created by world-renowned artist Jig Cochrane will include one whole mile of lights that stretches across Edinburgh's Botanic Gardens. The display will be running from Thursday 17 November to Friday 30 December and tickets are available to book now.

Christmas at Gibside

Newcastle - Christmas At Gibside

This spectacular display of illuminations will be held at the Georgian garden at the National Trust Gibside estate near Gateshead from Friday 2 December to Sunday 1 January. Tickets are available to book now.

Cambridge - Christmas At Wimpole

Near Cambridge this winter? Head to the National Trust's Wimpole to discover the magic of Christmas through a captivating light display. The trail will be open from Friday 25 November to Sunday 1 January and tickets are available to book now.

Leeds - Christmas At Roundhay Park

With installations designed by an impressive range of international artists and a soundtrack of your favourite festive tunes, the illuminated trail at Roundhay Park, Leeds will provide the perfect Christmas activity for the whole family. Head down from Thursday 8 December to Sunday 1 January and book tickets now.

Catch a sneak peek of Christmas at Roundhay Park

Hertfordshire - Christmas At Hatfield Park

Wander through this stunning Hertordshire-based historical estate and marvel at the display of lights and lasers all choreographed to a seasonal soundtrack. The trail at the Jacobean Hatfield Park will run from Friday 25 November to Saturdqy 31 December and tickets are available to book now.

From Nottinghamshire, North Berwick, Northwich and more check out some illuminated trails near you this winter.

Christmas at Belton

It’s the most wonderful time of the year when over a million lights and seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun at Belton House. Look forward to some together time and make everlasting memories, as you discover sparkling tunnels of light, dancing waterside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour. For a…

Christmas at Gibside

The popular Christmas trail featuring enchanting illuminations will return to the Georgian garden at the National Trust's Gibside estate, near Gateshead from 2 December 2022 and 1 January 2023. Wrap up warm and be transported into a winter wonderland where you will discover sparkling tunnels of light, walk under giant…

Christmas at Wimpole

A brand new after-dark illuminated trail through festive gardens. It’s the most wonderful time of the year when twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun at the National Trust’s Wimpole, near Cambridge. Look forward to some together time as you discover sparkling tunnels of light, walk under giant…

Christmas at Kingston Lacy

A brand new after-dark illuminated trail through festive gardens. It’s the most wonderful time of the year when twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun at Kingston Lacy. Look forward to some together time as you discover sparkling tunnels of light, walk under giant baubles and beneath the trees…

Christmas at Hatfield Park

Mark your diaries as this brand-new Christmas trail is set to transform the unique landscape, making for an unmissable outdoor experience. Book now to spend quality time with loved ones, as you create everlasting memories at one of England’s historical estates. You will wander between installations designed by a range of…