As the festive season settles over rolling hills and golden-stone villages, the Cotswolds comes alive with magical Christmas light trails that transform the region into a glittering wonderland. From the twinkling treetops of Westonbirt Arboretum to the grand illuminated grounds of Blenheim Palace and the enchanted gardens of Sudeley Castle, these spectacular Christmas light trails in the Cotswolds are among the most captivating things to do in the Cotswolds at Christmas. Whether you’re wandering beneath glowing canopies, exploring historic estates after dark, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, each trail offers a truly unforgettable way to celebrate the season.
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum – A Forest of Light and Imagination
Dates: 21 November – 31 December 2025
Christmas at Westonbirt returns for 2025 with an all-new, reimagined festive experience. Forestry England has joined forces with the creative minds behind Christmas at Kew, ensuring this year’s trail will be more spectacular than ever. Wander beneath the canopy of Westonbirt’s breathtaking trees as twinkling illuminations and interactive installations light up the forest in unexpected ways.
Highlights include the mesmerising Laser Garden, the glowing Mycelium Network, and the vibrant Fireworks Trees, all designed to delight visitors of every age. Keep your eyes open for a glimpse of Father Christmas himself, and warm up along the way with hot chocolate, mulled wine, and toasted marshmallows from the charming food stalls. With limited capacity and timed entry, advance booking is highly recommended for this unmissable celebration of light, nature, and festive cheer.
Blenheim Palace – There’s No Place Like Blenheim
Dates: 14 November 2025 – 3 January 2026
Few places capture Christmas grandeur like Blenheim Palace. This year, the stately home invites guests to step into The Palace of Oz – an immersive indoor experience inspired by The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, where visitors follow a yellow brick road sprinkled with Christmas magic through the opulent State Rooms. Expect to meet Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the Cowardly Lion as you journey toward the Emerald City.
Outside, Blenheim’s famous Illuminated Trail returns, brighter and bolder than ever, featuring glowing sculptures and installations by international and local artists. Stroll beneath canopies of light, listen to seasonal sounds, and discover moments of wonder at every turn. Add to that a lively Christmas Market (14 November – 21 December) filled with artisan gifts and mouth-watering festive treats, plus a chance to take to the ice at The Great Skate, and it’s clear why Blenheim is one of the UK’s most beloved holiday destinations.
Sudeley Castle – Spectacle of Light: The Legend of King Arthur
Dates: 21 November – 30 December 2025
For its tenth anniversary, Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle returns with an all-new theme that promises to enchant: King Arthur. This year’s trail takes visitors deep into the myths and magic of Camelot, featuring glowing swords in stone, enchanted forests, and breathtaking projections that bring the Arthurian legend to life.
Set within the magnificent grounds of Sudeley Castle — once home to Queen Katherine Parr — this event has become a cherished Gloucestershire tradition. Families, couples, and friends can explore illuminated gardens, enjoy festive food and drink, and revel in the storytelling and artistry that make this light trail one of the UK’s finest.
Advance tickets offer a 10% discount before 20 November, but be quick — nights often sell out well in advance.
Croome – Rapturous Delight
Dates: 29 November 2025 – 4 January 2026 (10am–4pm)
After-Dark Dates: Select evenings, 6–27 December 2025 (5:30pm–10pm)
This Christmas, Croome invites visitors to step into Rapturous Delight — a spellbinding fusion of light, sound, and storytelling that brings the house and gardens to life. Created by digital arts company Leo & Hyde, this immersive experience celebrates Pages from Nature and the 200-year anniversary of Hortus Croomensis, blending glowing interiors, evocative music, and digital projections inspired by Croome’s rich botanical heritage.
By day, wander through the house to admire its stunning decorations — each inspired by the landscape and historic plant collections that surround this elegant estate. Families can also enjoy relaxed sessions from 10–11am each morning, offering a gentler experience for visitors who prefer a quieter, less crowded atmosphere.
As night falls, Rapturous Delight After Dark transforms Croome into a glowing dreamscape. Follow the illuminated pathways leading to the house, where twinkling installations and shimmering projections fill the winter air with wonder. Once inside, let the immersive light displays and enchanting stories of nature wrap you in festive warmth. Round off the evening with a hot drink or a bite to eat from the café or outdoor food trailer, and soak up the seasonal spirit under the starlit sky.
Cotswold Sculpture Park – A New Light Awakens
Opening Late November 2025
The Cotswold Sculpture Park are opening their gates this winter for their first ever lightshow.
Head down to the park and meander through lit up trails that lead to dazzling sculpture and mesmerising light displays. As you wonder through the woodlands and gardens, you will be able to experience the breathtaking beauty of the auroura borealis, amongst other magical wonders.
Experience a lightshow unlike any other at the Cotswold Sculpture Park this year. With warming snacks and festive treats, this really is the perfect seasonal night out for all the family.
A Sparkling Finale in the Cotswolds
From towering trees and fairy-lit forests to castles steeped in history, the Cotswolds shines brightly at Christmas. Whether you’re drawn by the legends of Camelot, the magic of Oz, or the quiet beauty of an illuminated woodland walk, each destination offers its own take on festive wonder.
So wrap up warm, grab a cup of mulled wine, and set out to explore these dazzling displays. Wherever you go, the Christmas lights of the Cotswolds promise to leave you glowing long after the final sparkle fades.