What is Christmas all about? Family, of course, then presents and food. But it’s also about that magical sensation you get seeing houses and streets transform into twinkly and dazzling explosions of colour and light. That feeling and more are contained within these Christmas light trails, endless gleaming lights that just scream ‘Festivities!’ So to put you in the festive spirit, here are some of the most magical Christmas light trails you can find near Birmingham.
1. Light Cycles
Light Cycles is not your classic Christmas light trail, but will spread plenty of festive cheer as it lights up these dark autumnal evenings. From November 15 to December 15, it will illuminate the wilds surrounding Stonebridge Golf Course with life-size art installations, hypnotic visual effects and serene soundscapes.
The Light Cycles night trail winds for one kilometre around the idyllic lakes of Somers Fishery and journies through five multi-sensory experiences inspired by nature. Oh, and there’s food and drink available in case you need something to convince you. To get your tickets to Light Cycles head here.
Stonebridge Golf Club, Somers Road, Meriden, Coventry, CV7 7PL
2. Winter Glow
The West Midlands’ biggest Christmas light trail returns to Malvern Showground from November 22 to December 31. This year, Winter Glow takes on a brand-new theme designed and created by local artists. ‘The Light Guardians’ trail will transport visitors on a mesmerising adventure through dazzling illuminations.
On top, you’ll find the beloved Santa’s Grotto – which includes a visit to Mrs Claus’ bakery, the toy workshop, and a winter village, before an unforgettable meeting with Santa himself – glow-in-the-dark mini golf on a new 18-hole course, featuring elf-themed UV designs; and the region’s largest covered real ice rink.
Three Counties Showground, Malvern WR13 6NW
3. The Enchanted Gardens
The Enchanted Gardens is back for a fourth year at the massive garden centre in Wychbold. This time, Webbs is bringing the much-loved children’s classic Alice in Wonderland to life with theatrical sets, lanterns, projections, and enchanting sounds. Tumble down the rabbit hole with Alice, join the Mad Hatter for a tea party, keep your eyes peeled for the Cheshire Cat, and face trial in the Queen of Hearts domain.
The 45-minute trail, lit in jewel-like colours, festoons, and fairy lights, is open from November 15 to January 5. Afterwards, you can also stop by Santa’s snow-covered workshop for some festive photographs. Plus, a selection of food and drink will be available in heated tipis, while heated hygge igloos can be pre-booked for VIP dining. You can learn more here.
Webbs, Worcester Rd, Droitwich WR9 0DG
4. Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle kicks off its festivities with its “biggest Christmas Trail to date, with this year’s illumination promising to be bigger and more spectacular than ever before.” Visit after dark to discover the larger-than-life illuminations during a 45-minute trail from November 23 to January 5.
The popular Christmas light trail spans one mile and over 40 breathtaking light displays – with thousands of shimmering lights. As part of Warwick Castle’s wider ‘Christmas at the Castle’ event, you’ll also find an open-air ice rink, storytelling sessions with Father Christmas, and festive short-break packages.
Warwick Castle, Warwick CV34 6AU
5. Trentham Winter Light Trail
Trentham Winter Light Trail is always an unmissable Christmas event complete with twinkling lights, festive delights and spectacular sights. Visitors can step into an all-new illuminated light trail at Trentham Gardens. With over a mile of magical illuminations, captivating soundscapes and interactive displays, including sparkling tree lines, tunnels of light, and larger-than-life illuminations. Afterwards, warm up at the Après Bar for all of your festive favourites – like mulled wine, hot chocolate and frosty biers!
Trentham Gardens, Stone Rd, Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 8JG
6. Illuminated Arboretum
The National Memorial Arboretum is home to over 150 acres of woodland and an overwhelming 25,000 trees. This Christmas (December 6 – 22), it somehow becomes even more breathtaking as the trees light up after hours with kaleidoscopic colour. The mile-long Illuminated Arboretum uses light, colour and sound to bring the fascinating stories of the Arboretum to life in an entirely new way. With tickets from £25, there is something for everyone one – from hands-on fun to areas for personal reflection. You can learn more here.
National Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Rd, Burton-on-Trent DE13 7AR
7. Spectacle of Light
Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle is one of the longest-running light trails in the Midlands and is just over an hour’s drive from Birmingham. Now in its ninth year (November 22 to December 30), this year’s trail takes on the much-loved theme of ‘Sleeping Beauty’ – and features dazzling lights, immersive storytelling and new installations. You’ll encounter the Princess in a deep sleep, the heroic Prince destined to awaken her, and The Wicked Fairy and the Good Fairies, who will interact with visitors around the trail.
Set around Sudeley Castle’s ten award-winning gardens, historic ruins, and woodland, the trail even passes Queen Katherine Parr’s tomb (Henry VIII’s sixth and surviving wife). Bathed in soft, glowing candlelight, it is the only UK festive light trail with such a significant historical element. Visitors can also visit the Castle gift shop afterwards to browse unique Christmas gifts and souvenirs. To learn more head here.
Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, Cheltenham GL54 5JD