REVIEW: Westonbirt Arboretum's 'outstanding' Christmas trail

It’s not Christmas until the stunning Westonbirt lights are switched on to create a unique, magical, festive experience year after year (next year is to be their 20th anniversary we believe) and every single time, they create a truly unique but equally magical time for all ages.

The crème de la crème of festive light trails is back for yet another year at Westonbirt Arboretum!

Westonbirt is hard to get to if you don’t drive as it’s situated about 20 mins off the Bath junction of the m4. Still, once you’ve parked up (we recommend arriving early) you have a wonderful Christmas village to explore where you can grab a bite to eat or drink (you will find traditional bratwurst, crepes and mulled wine but also burgers, chips and a few vegetarian options.

It is worth also noting that vegan options are minimal) or take a spin on some of the rides there. It’s worth noting that your allocated ticket time is the time of entry to the trail itself, not entry onto the site so if you did want to arrive early, you would get to spend time in the Christmas village / grab some food.

The timeslots run every 10 minutes from 4.30 pm – 8.20 pm but for dramatic effect, the darker, the better for the lights. The timeslot that is being called at that moment will be displayed on giant screens so it’s a good idea to make your way towards them a little bit early, so you don’t miss it.

It is also worth noting that it is VERY cold so please wrap up warm and take boots, umbrellas and anything else you think you might need as you are very exposed to the elements and the trail opens come rain or shine.

The trail is fully paved however so it is very accessible for wheelchair users, prams, mobility scooters and pushchairs. It’s also worth noting that dogs are not allowed (except for guide dogs) and there are strong flashing lights, smoke, loud sound effects and other intense sensory details within the trail.

With this in mind, Westonbirt is running a few select, relaxed trails where the above details will be deactivated to make for a calmer experience. Please see their website for more information of those dates and times if this is something you think would suit you and your attending party.

Right… on to the fun stuff… the trail!

This year does not disappoint and is longer than the previous years. It is full of magic, playful elves and stunning visual displays. Immerse yourself in a magical, mystical and festive world of light and shadow. Enchantment and wonder around every corner and even the ever-popular talking trees make another appearance this year.

This really is a trail that has something for everyone. Tiny ones will be amazed at the sensory experience of the right colours and lights that playfully weave between the trees.

Slightly older ones will love the playful atmosphere and music that plays to create a festive, forest disco and adults will admire the sheer beauty of these age-old trees displayed in such a beautifully artistic manner.

Whatever your reason for going, you will not be disappointed and find something that will give you that warm, tingling festive feeling regardless of your age.

NOT to be missed. 

Written by Laura Sophia Rose from @mama.massive 

If you'd like to get tickets then please visit their website here.