Christmas Light Trails in Somerset and Bristol 2026
Looking for the best Christmas light trails in Somerset and Bristol in 2026? From sparkling woodland walks and illuminated gardens to immersive light shows and festive experiences, there are plenty of magical evenings out for families. I’ve rounded up the dates, ticket prices and booking details to help you choose the perfect Christmas light trail for your family.
*Updated October 2026*
Read our blog post for the best Family Days Out at Christmas in Somerset, 2026 and, Family Days Out at Christmas in Bristol, 2026. For some ideas for free or low cost events in the area, read FREE Christmas Events in Somerset and Bristol, 2026.
There are many Christmas light displays to choose from and we’ve rounded up the Best Christmas Light Trails in Somerset and the Bristol area in 2026 for you. They tend to sell out quickly, so check out this list and book up as soon as you can.
At a Glance
Christmas light trail | Dates for 2026 | Best for |
|---|---|---|
Enchantment at Langford Lakes, Wellington | 20 November–30 December (selected dates) | Outdoor light trail and Christmas tree forest |
Winter Wonderland at Wookey Hole | Weekends from 21 November, then daily 19–24 December | Caves, Santa and festive family activities |
Christmas Illuminations at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells | 1 December–3 January 2027 (closed 24–26 and 31 December) | Historic palace gardens and festive illuminations |
Twilight Tobogganing at Mendip Outdoor Activity Centre, Churchill | 6 November–3 January 2027 | Tobogganing, festive lights and campfire |
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Drone Light Show, Bath Racecourse | 21 November (backup dates 22–23 November) | A festive drone light show |
Glo in the Dark Mini Golf, Royal Victoria Park, Bath | 20 November–3 January 2027 | Outdoor glow-in-the-dark mini golf |
Festive Illumination Trail at Old Down Country Park, Bristol area | 28 November–28 December | Light trail, Christmas Village and marshmallow toasting |
Wild Lights at Bristol Zoo Project | 27 November–23 December | Illuminated woodland trail and interactive displays |
Luminate at Ashton Court, Bristol | 27 November–28 December | Outdoor light trail and interactive installations |
Sailing the Stars, Bristol Dockyards | 25 November–10 January 2027 | Light and sound installations around the historic dockyards and aboard the SS Great Britain. |
Sky Kingdom: A Dragon Drone Light Show, Seat Unique Stadium, Bristol | 19–20 December | Dragons, lights and music in a drone show |
Enchanted Christmas Light Trail at Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire | Selected evenings, 27 November–31 December | Illuminated woodland and festive installations |
The Festival of Light at Longleat, Wiltshire | Selected dates, 7 November–17 January 2027 | Lantern displays and family attractions |
Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle, Gloucestershire | 20 November–30 December | Illuminated castle trail with an Alice in Wonderland theme |
Christmas at Stourhead, Wiltshire | 27 November–3 January 2027 | Illuminated gardens, tunnels and lakeside displays |
Best Christmas Light Trails in Somerset, 2026
Where: Langford Lakes Christmas Tree Farm, Middle Hill Farm, Wellington, Somerset TA21 0RS
When: Friday 20th November – Wednesday 30th December 2026 (various dates).Â
Standard Price: Adults (16 and over) £16.91; Children (2 -15 yrs) £10.58; Under 2s – Free.
Off Peak Price: Adults (16 and over) £14.80; Children (2 -15 yrs) £8.46.
Off peak tickets are available on the following dates: 20th – 22nd, 27th – 29th November – all time slots.
Enchantment at Langford Lakes takes you on a journey following an illuminated trail as it winds past dazzling lake displays and through a festive Christmas tree forest. Along the way, you’ll encounter a series of stunning sculptural installations. It’s a truly magical experience for children and adults to explore.Â
Enchantment at Langford Lakes illuminated trail is approximately one kilometre long and will take around 60 minutes to complete.
There will be lots of photo opportunities along the route with interactive installations. They are a dog friendly venue and dogs are more than welcome to join you on this magical trail.
Where: Wookey Hole, Wells, Somerset BA5 1BB
When: Open weekends from 21st November and then daily from 19th to 24th December 2026 from 9.30 am until 5 pm.
Price (inc. Santa visit): Adults £28.99, OAP’s £24.99, Children £26.99 (3-15yrs), Infant (under 3 yrs) FREE – visit website and book online.
Get into the spirit of Christmas at Wookey Hole’s Winter Wonderland. Your adventure includes three incredible Christmas experiences wrapped up into one magical day out.
Enjoy a breathtaking underground light experience –Â Visit the caves where over 100,000 of lights magically illuminate the way. Spectacular cave projections bringing Christmas stories to life underground.
Experience a magical visit to Santa himself – Immerse yourself in Santa’s North Pole Grotto, where every child will get to meet Santa and take home a present from Santa’s Elves from the Toy Shop.
Enjoy a thrilling and festive Christmas circus show, full of surprises – Watch a spectacular Christmas-themed circus show, performed in the Wookey Hole Theatre as part of your experience. Your day out will include all the other attractions of Wookey Hole, including a special Christmas Movie in the 4D Cinema.Â
Where: Off Market Place, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2PD
When: Tuesday 1st December 2026 – Sunday 3rd January 2027. (Closed 24 – 26th and 31st Dec).
- 4.30pm – 7.30pm (last entry 7pm)
Price: Visitors purchasing Joint or Day tickets on the day of the Illuminations will also have access to the event as part of their ticket.
Peak and off-peak tickets:
Peak dates offer an enhanced festive experience at The Bishop’s Palace Christmas Illuminations, with live music from local choirs and musicians, plus seasonal food and drink to enjoy along the way. Off-peak tickets are a more budget-friendly option if you’d prefer to visit on a quieter weekday evening. Adult tickets cost £10 off-peak or £12 peak, while child tickets (ages 5–17) cost £6 or £8 respectively. Family tickets are £30 off-peak and £38 peak.
Details: The Christmas Illuminations at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells promise a magical festive evening for all the family. This year’s theme is The 12 Days of Christmas, with sparkling light installations bringing the historic medieval palace and its beautiful gardens to life after dark.
Follow the illuminated trail to discover golden rings, milkmaids and swans-a-swimming, accompanied by classical music and festive decorations. New for 2026, the illuminations will extend inside the palace, where rooms will feature beautiful displays incorporating flowers dried from the gardens.
Warm up with a festive hot chocolate, mince pie or mulled wine as you explore this enchanting Christmas light trail in Somerset. Weekend evenings will also feature live music from local choirs and musicians.
Top tip: Book your tickets in advance and check the available entry times before visiting, as opening dates and sessions vary throughout the festive season.
Find out more and book: The Bishop’s Palace Christmas Illuminations
Where: Lyncombe Drive, Churchill. BS25 5PQ.
When: Between Friday 6th November 2026 and Sunday 3rd January 2027.
Price: From £100/up to 8 people. A limited number of sessions are available to book individually, suitable for children aged 4 to 12. These places start from £22 per child.
Book here.
Hit the toboggan slope with family and friends for a magical and exhilarating evening. The 10,000 fairy lights, coloured flood lights, lasers, Santa hats, festive music and a Hollywood-style snow machine create an unforgettably festive experience.
Please note, this isn’t a traditional light trail.
After tobogganing, you’ll head along a magical illuminated path to an enchanted clearing in the ancient woodland. Sit under giant canopies around a camp fire and roast marshmallows, make s’mores and light sparklers. Hot chocolate will be waiting too to ensure the perfect end to a festive, family experience you’ll never forget.
Where: Bath Racecourse, Lansdown, Bath, BA1 9BUÂ
When: Saturday 21st November 2026.
Gates open at 2:00pm; the 600-drone light show runs from 5:00pm.
Weather Contingency: Because drone shows depend on weather conditions, backup contingency dates are scheduled for 22 and 23 November 2026 if the main show is postponed. Tickets are non-refundable for weather rescheduling.
Details: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer takes to the Skies in a magical drone light show.
Witness the sky come alive with the heart-warming tale of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, told through cinematic sound and light, through a spectacular drone light show.
For the first time in the UK, the epic musical and long-running TV holiday hit in the USA, will be brought to life this Christmas with a mesmerising swarm of 600 LED drones.
Set to a rich, cinematic score, this cutting-edge production transforms the night sky into a moving canvas, capturing the magic and wonder of Rudolph’s story like never before.
This event is ideal for families and is a great alternative to fireworks.Â
Plus, fairground rides, face painting, food stalls, and bars.
*Update – SOLD OUT*
Where: Royal Pavilion, Royal Victoria Park, Bath, BA1 2NR
When: Friday 20th November 2026 to Sunday 3rd January 2027.
Price: Adult £11.50, Child (12 and under) £9.75, Teens £10.50, Family of 4 ticket £36.50. Pre-booking advised.
Enjoy Christmas in Bath at the popular adventure golf course which is decked out with its very own fairy light installations. Playing golf at night with glow-in-the-dark balls adds a whole new layer of excitement to the classic daytime experience. The 18-hole mini-golf course in Royal Victoria Park has been colourfully illuminated with rainbow lights for the festive season.Â
Afterwards, you can enjoy a hot chocolate and a selection of food at Moguls Alpine Bar next door, open every day from 10:30am – 10:00pm.
Pop next door to Bath on Ice for their outdoor ice rink which is open from Friday 20th November 2026, until January 3rd 2027.Â
SEE MORE: For more Christmas ice rinks in Somerset, read: Christmas Ice Skating in Somerset: Best Rinks for 2026
Best Christmas Light Trails in Bristol 2026
Where: Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol, BS32 4PG
When: Saturday 28th November – Monday 28th December 2026 | From 4:30pm-7:15pm (Five time-slots per evening event).
Price: Adults £20.50, Child £13.65 (2 – 15 yrs), concessions available. Booking ahead is advised.
This festive Illumination Trail near Bristol offers a magical sensory experience that lights the beautiful Country Park.
Wander through glowing walkways, marvel at sparkling installations, and soak up the festive cheer in the Christmas Village as the Country Park and Estate are transformed into an enchanting after-dark experience to remember. Free parking is included for all visitors.
Make an evening of it in their Christmas Village, where the whole family can share in the festive fun. Toast your marshmallows (included in price) over the fire pits, get creative with free activities in the Crafty Cabin, purchase a warm glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate, and enjoy the deliciouss apple crumble with cream or custard. Dogs are welcome too, so no one has to miss out on the fun.Â
The festive market stalls will be brimming with seasonal treasures – perfect for finding a little gift or treat for someone special.
- Get creative at the craft station.
- Â The Festive Village will be making a return this year, complete with Crumble Station, Hot Chocolate Station and marshmallow toasting!
- Dogs on a lead are more than welcome to join you on this magical trail.
- Check website for more Christmas events at Old Down Country Park – Breakfast and Brunch with Santa
SEE MORE: For more Christmas events in Bristol, read:Â Family Days Out at Christmas in Bristol, 2026
Where: Bristol Zoo Project, Blackhorse Hill, Bristol, BS10 7TP
When: Friday 27th November – Wednesday 23rd December 2026
Price: Adults £18, children (ages 2–14) £14. Under-2s and carers go free. Family tickets are £54.
Brand new for 2026, Wild Lights is an exciting addition to Bristol’s Christmas light trails. Follow an illuminated trail through Bristol Zoo Project, with spectacular displays of light and sound transforming the woodland setting into a magical winter wonderland.
Wander along winding pathways beneath towering trees, discover interactive displays and look out for surprises around every corner. There’s also a fire pit where you can toast marshmallows, making this a lovely festive evening out with the family.
Good to know: Wild Lights is a separate ticketed experience and does not include daytime zoo admission. Animals will not be on show during the light trail, so book in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
Find out more and book: Wild Lights at Bristol Zoo Project
Where: Long Ashton, Bristol, BS41 9JN
When: Friday 27th November – Monday 28th December 2026.
Entry times: 4.30pm to 8pm start
The trail will take approximately 60 – 90 minutes.
Sensory friendly’ sessions on Tuesday 8th December 2026
Price: Adult: £22.45; Childrem (3-15) £14.85; Aged 2 and Under free – no ticket needed; Family (2A 2C) £68.00 + Booking fee.
- Marshmallows £3.50
- Parking £5
The magical trail is approx 1.6km long, meandering through the gardens and parkland at Ashton Court, with over 15 light displays and fun interactive moments along the way. Come and enjoy the magic! Toasting marshallows, hot mulled wine and of course, tasty food will be available.
There are specific dog days, when you can bring your dog along. On the 9th, 10th, 14th, 17th, 21st, 27th and 28th December only.
Where: Bristol Dockyards, Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Road, Bristol, BS1 6TY
When: Wednesday 25th November 2026 – Sunday 10th January 2027
Price: Included with a General Admission or Afternoon Saver ticket.
Sailing The Stars is a magical Christmas light trail at Bristol Dockyards, transforming the historic dockyard and the iconic SS Great Britain into an immersive map of the night sky. Created with artists Squidsoup, this celestial experience features five spectacular light and sound installations inspired by the stars that guided sailors across the oceans.
Follow the Plough and the North Star, discover the constellation Orion and marvel at a shimmering aurora illuminating the ship’s Promenade Deck. Families can also enjoy interactive activities, including recreating constellations with torches and spotting hidden details through binoculars.
This is a wonderful choice for families looking for Christmas light trails in Bristol, with the added bonus of exploring the SS Great Britain experience.
Good to know: Special after-hours Christmas Lates take place on 25th November and 5th, 16th and 23rd December 2026. These require separate tickets, with early-bird prices advertised from £13 when booked before 11th November.
Find out more: Sailing The Stars at Bristol Dockyards
Where: Seat Unique Stadium, Nevil Road, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 9EJ
When: Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th December 2026
- Venue opens its doors at 4:30 p.m.
- Show starts at 6:30 p.m.
- Duration: approx. 40 minutes
Price: Adult £19.50; Earlybird Child/Concession £14.00 – book online here. Premium tickets also available.
Enjoy a spectacular drone light show as Bristol’s night sky transforms into a spectacular kingdom of dragons, light and music.
Lose yourself in a breathtaking 40-minute spectacle where hundreds of drones transform the night sky.Â
Accompanied by a powerful soundtrack where every beat and melody carries you through every magical moment.
- Perfect for all ages
- Food village and entertainment
SEE MORE: For free Christmas events, which includes a few Free Christmas Illuminations in North Somerset, read: Free Christmas Events in Somerset and Bristol.
Christmas Illuminations in Gloucestershire and Wiltshire 2026
Explore trees from all over the globe in a completely new light. The National Arboretum has over a million twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the air with festive fun.Â
- A circular walk about 1.2 miles (1.6 km) long
- Duration: Expect the walk to take roughly 1.5 to 2 hours.
Prepare to be dazzled by an enchanting winter wonderland, filled with sparkling lights, festive sounds and stunning instillations, making for an unforgettable experience for all the family. Westonbirt’s captivating landscape and impressively lit trees creates an enchanting world full of wonder and imagination – the perfect place to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Don’t miss Father Christmas who will be located on the illuminated trail and all visitors will get the opportunity to see him.
You can arrive anytime before your trail time slot to soak up some seasonal cheer in the Christmas Village. Once complete you will exit via the Christmas Village. The village will have food and drink stalls and traditional fairground rides.
Where: Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW
When: Selected dates from Saturday 7th November 2026 to Sunday 17th January 2027.Â
Price: Twilight tickets Adults (16+) £34.95 to £39.95; Child (3-15)  £26.20 to £29.95 – see website for details. Safari Day tickets and non-safari day tickets also available.
Sensory Day (8 November 2026) – this day is open to all to enjoy The Festival of Light with reduced numbers on the park, on board the Santa Train and Safari Bus as well as fewer numbers on House Tours. Music will be switched off and lights  will be visible in daylight as well as nighttime.Â
The Festival of Light is one of our favourite family days out at Christmas. This year the festival of light presents Legendary Worlds.
A Twilight Ticket includes:
- Access to the stunning lantern scenes
- A 2.5km to 2.6km lantern trail walking route featuring over 1,000 hand-crafted lanterns portraying myths, legends, and ancient worlds.
- Festive attractions including the Enchanted Christmas Tree Show
- A whole host of attractions to explore including Adventure Castle and Rockin’ Rhino.
- Longleat’s grounds and gardens
Don’t miss the spectacular fountain display on Half Mile Pond. Longleat House will be even more luminous, with a phenomenal light show bringing its historic facade to life.
Other options include the iconic Drive-through Winter Safari and the Santa Train.
Where: Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, GL54 5LP
When: Friday 20th November – Wednesday 30th December 2026.
Price: Adult/£25.00/£30.00, Child 3-15/£16.00/£19.00.
- From 4.45 pm onwards.
Special Advance offer – Save 10% off the Full Price for both Standard and Saver Tickets.
Explore the magical after-dark experience at Sudeley Castle and follow the new illuminated trail around the beautiful fairy-tale castle grounds.
Discover Alice’s Amazing Adventures in Wonderland as you experience this wondrous after-dark adventure around Sudeley’s magical castle grounds.
Follow the White Rabbit and marvel at the Mad Hatter, chat with the Cheshire Cat and be very careful of the terrifying Queen of Hearts!
Take away hot food, drinks and doughnuts are available to buy. Sip festive warmers of spiced mulled wine and sprinkled hot chocolate as you join the magical trail.
Registered assistance dogs only.
Car Parking is free.
National Trust: My Nearest Christmas Light Trail
Where: Mere, Wiltshire, BA12 6QD
When: Friday 27th November 2026 – Sunday 3rd January 2027, various time slots available each evening. Booking is essential.
Price: Peak and off-peak time slots available. From £18.00 – £26.50/Adult, £13 – £19.50/Child. £50-£90/Family (2A 2C); Parking £8 or Free for NT members.Â
Christmas at Stourhead is a famous annual event that sees this world-famous Wiltshire estate lit up with festive illuminations. Look forward to spending time together with friends and family as you discover sparkling tunnels, giant baubles and glistening trees drenched in jewel-like colour.
The trail is approximately one mile long and it’ll take around 90 minutes.
Discover a sea of light stretching out into the distance across the lake, larger-than-life crystals suspended in trees and Liquid Sky filling the air with all the colours of the rainbow! There’s huge feathers floating high into the night sky and sparkling tunnels of light.
And don’t forget to keep an eye out for Father Christmas along the way.
There’ll be a range of delicious and tempting treats for sale. So, why not complete your walk under the stars with a spiced winter warmer, a hot chocolate or some toasted marshmallows, shared with someone special.
- Quiet Sessions: Sunday 29th November at 4pm and on Thursday 3rd December at 4pm.
- Guide dogs and registered assistance dogs are very welcome at this event. No other dogs are allowed for this event.Â
Top Tips for visiting a light trail and festive illuminations
- Pre-book your tickets early because most places will sell out quickly. Keep an eye on the website for when tickets are released and book in advance. For some places you will need to book a time slot for arrival. The peak times will be earlier on in the evening and weekends. Â
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear as these are evening events, taking place after dark in winter. There may be some slippery surfaces on your route, especially when wet.
- Arrive in plenty of time. Give yourself time to park the car and walk to the trail entrance by your allocated time (some venues require you to book a time-slot).
- It is a good idea to bring a torch with you just in case because the event takes place after dark and it’s useful to have extra lighting. Some children bring glow sticks!Â
- Check with the venue how accessible the site is before you book, not all trails are wheelchair friendly.
- Check with the venue whether dogs are welcome before bringing your pet with you.
- Bring money and allow extra time for a hot drink and snack, most venues will be selling food and drink.
Read more Seasonal Somerset Guides
For firework displays and bonfire night events in Somerset and Bristol, check out:
The Best Firework Displays and Bonfire Night Events in Somerset and Bristol 2026
Firework Displays and Bonfire Night Events in Bristol and South Gloucestershire 2026
If you’re looking ahead to Christmas events in Somerset and Bristol, check out:
Family Days Out at Christmas in Somerset 2026
Christmas Markets in Somerset, 2026
Best Festive Ice Skating Rinks in Somerset, 2026
Family Christmas Shows and Pantomimes in Somerset 2026-2027
Family Days Out at Christmas in Bristol, 2026
Free Christmas Events in Somerst and Bristol, 2026
For Halloween events further afield, check out:
If you’re looking for an outdoor activity with the kids, why not check out one of our walks .
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Disclaimer: Please note, every effort has been made to ensure that all information is correct at the time of publishing this post, but please check the venues website before travelling, as events may be amended or cancelled at short notice. Many of these events need pre-booking. If you have any more suggestions for family-friendly Christmas Illumination events in Somerset and Bristol, we’d love to hear from you.
