Here’s our guide to help you discover the most enchanting Christmas light trails in Berkshire and beyond. These lovely light trails are all within an hour of Berkshire, and many of them are tried and tested by us.
Is there anything better than an illuminated trail to get you in the mood for the festive season? It really does mark the countdown to Christmas. Wrapping up warm, admiring the sparkly lights and displays, and of course sipping the first mulled wine of the year!
It’s one of the Christmas family events we all look forward to. Here’s our list of the top illuminated trails to visit in and around Berkshire in 2024.
*We have previously been gifted tickets for some of the light trails.
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Windsor Illuminated
One of our all-time favourite Christmas light trails in Berkshire is at Windsor Great Park Illuminated. Each year, the projections just seem to get more imaginative and creative.
As you take a leisurely stroll through the woods, keep your eyes out for woodland creatures which appear to dart through the trees and for fairies up above. Plus, cast your eye across the waters for some of the best reflections around. It really is a feast for your eyes!
Along the way, there are several stops for hot drinks and snacks and there are several carousels at the end.
Spectacle of Light, Welford Park, Newbury
From 18th October 2024 you will be able to enjoy a dazzling Spectacle of Light in the gardens of Welford Park in Newbury.
The dog-friendly, illuminated trail will take you on an enchanting night time adventure, which will show the woodlands at Welford Park from a different perspective. Enjoy a spectacle of lights, colour, and sound at one of the best light trails in Berkshire.
Christmas at Legoland
The Legoland® Resort in Windsor will be transformed into a wintery wonderland with twinkly lights, a giant DUPLO® Christmas tree and plenty of festive shows and entertainment. Perfect for a festive day out or special weekend break with your little ones.
Christmas at Kew
Although we’ve not yet been, Christmas at Kew is undoubtedly one of the UK’s most acclaimed illuminated trails and tickets always sell out fast. Take a visit to Christmas at Kew to enjoy the famous botanical gardens light up with lights and reflections, accompanied to the sound of seasonal music.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for Father Christmas along the way!
Glow 24 at RHS Wisley
A good way to kick-start the festive season is with a visit to Glow at RHS Wisley. We went last year and loved it. Just 40 minutes from Berkshire, this is one of the top light trails in Surrey.
As you follow the light trail, the famous Surrey gardens come alive with colour and sparkles. The highlight comes at the end in front of the house, where you can enjoy a magical illuminated water display.
Wellington Illuminova, Riseley, Berkshire
This year the light trail at Wellington Country Park promises to be an unforgettable night time experience. Prepare to be dazzled as you wander through the illuminated paths of Wellington Country Park, at Riseley near Reading. Here, you’ll discover interactive displays, and installations, with colour, lights and plenty of magic!
Book early if you want to reserve tickets for the train ride at Wellington Illuminova.
The Christmas Illuminated Adventure at West Green House
Just across the Berkshire borders in Hampshire, West Green House is hosting a Wizard of Oz themed lights adventure in the gardens.
Join the Christmas Illuminated Garden Adventure to follow a sparkling mile of “yellow brick road“ through an illuminated garden , passing giant dancing fountains and mysterious follies. The adventure will take you past a glowing poppy field, an evil witch, and even a Barbie pink watch on the quest to find the favourite Oz characters.
Leonardslee Lights
Last year’s visit to Leonardslee Lights was one of the highlights of our festive events in the lead up to Christmas.
Just over an hour from Slough, the woodland gardens at Leonardslee were awash with light, sound and colour. The light trail leads down to the lakes where you can see the stunning suspended earth reflected in the water.
The illuminated trail at Leonardslee Gardens takes about 60-90 minutes, but then you can head outside to the Christmas Market and funfair.
Festival of Light, Newbury
Head to the Corn Exchange in Newbury to join the celebrations as Newbury town centre transforms into a twinkling wonderland.
The light procession takes place at 4pm on Sunday 15th November and will depart from Northbrook Street before arriving at the Market Place. Visitors to the Festival of Light can enjoy live music and a festive atmosphere.
Other Christmas events in and around Berkshire
If you live on the borders of Surrey, see this list of Dazzling Light Trails in and about Surrey 2024.
Alternatively, check out our bumper guide to some of the best Christmas events taking place in Berkshire. Alternatively you can find out fun things to do at Christmas in Hampshire and the best things to do at Christmas in Surrey.
Pin for Later: Spectacular Christmas light trails in and about Berkshire
*Disclaimer: We have previously been gifted tickets for some of the events. (Read our full Disclosure Policy)
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