Updated - November 2025
We love a light trail and this year there are so many to choose from in the North West and surrounding areas. Over the years we have done a few but they have become so popular that this year we already have three booked in and hopefully will book a few more over the next few weeks. As you can imagine tickets sell fast for these events so take a look below for some inspiration on which trail to choose and don't hang about, grab your tickets before it's too late.
Christmas At Dunham Massey
Dunham Massey, Altrincham WA14 4SJ
When?
Selected dates from 14th November 2025 to 3rd January 2026 - 4:30 to 8:15pm (time slots may vary by date)
What To Expect
'Masses of twinkling lights, magnificent installations, and seasonal music come together against the beautiful backdrop of the Dunham Massey gardens, moat and park.
This unforgettable, family-friendly festive event is perfect for making memories with loved ones. Find beams of light amongst ancient trees, marvel at dancing lights on the moat, and discover beautiful installations along the winding paths of the gardens. '
The trail usually lasts anywhere between 60 - 90 minutes. We like to take our time and stop at the refreshments half way round. There are also refreshments available before/after the trail with fairground rides.
As this is an outdoor event suitable clothing for all weathers is a must!
Yuletide - A Glittering Winter Garden Adventure
Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6QN (Sat Nav WA16 6SG)
When?
Selected dates from 15th November to 23rd December 2025. Times start at 3pm to 7:30pm (time slots may vary by date)
What To Expect
A blend of festive light trail and wondrous winter festival, create a new winter family tradition on this glittering winter adventure!
As we approach the longest night, we invite you to step into an incredible, wild, glittering world at Tatton Park Gardens this Christmas. Fall into a world of folklore, festive tradition and ridiculous rituals as the characters and creatures from winter myths and stories come to life.
Expect an incredible illuminated trail, where winter witch goddesses have captured the moon and sun and shapeshifting snow hares play tricks on us all. Visit the heart of Yuletide, keeping warm as you dance to wild folk bands, crown your family’s ‘Lord of Misrule’ and gather round the fire for wondrous tales.
Magical Woodland At Christmas
Cheshire Outdoors, Blakemere Village, Sandiway, Cheshire, CW8 2EB
When?
Selected dates from 28th November to 24th December 2025 - 4pm to 8pm (time slots may vary by date)
What To Expect
'Get into the Christmas spirit this year and experience never-seen-before light features, in the 15-acre enchanted Cheshire Woodland. Fully immerse yourself into a world of pure festive magic; with special guests Mr & Mrs Claus making an appearance this year! Bringing back some favourites: dazzling cathedral canopies of fairy lights, interactive light features, tunnels of Boreralis-style lasers, floating umbrellas, and clouds of flying lanterns
We haven't experienced this trail yet so I'm not sure how long the trail is or how long you need to allow. Will update as soon as possible.
Enchanted Winter Walk at Quarry Bank Mill
Styal, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 4HP
When?
Selected dates between 27th November – 22nd December 2025.
What To Expect
With festive lighting and illuminated walkways, wander through the Upper Garden on our Enchanted Winter Walk. Keep an eye out for Mrs Claus preparing the sleigh for Christmas Eve, and little ones, don’t forget to pick up your reindeer food ready for the big day. Tickets include entry and hot drink for adults. And for children tickets include entry, reindeer food and child size hot drink.
The experience is expected to last 30 minutes
BeWILDerwood Presents Christmas
Bickley Moss, Whitchurch, Cheshire, SY13 4JF
When?
Selected dates from 29th November to Saturday 23rd December 2025 - 4pm - 6:00pm (days and time slots may vary by date)
What To Expect
Follow The Sparkly Light Trail through BeWILDerwood this Christmas! Spot Silly Snowmen, candy canes and other festive favourites along the way!
The light trail this year seems to be one of the activities you can experience. There is also a chance to meet Father Christmas and also visit the pantomime.
We haven't experienced this before so can't really say what to expect but if you have please do let us know.
Northern Lights, Manchester at Heaton Park
Heaton Park, Middleton Road, Manchester M25 2SW
When?
Selected dates from 20th November to 31st December 2025 - 4:15pm - 8:15pm (days and time slots may vary by date)
What To Expect
The 1 mile long walk around Heaton Park takes you on an adventure through around 14 illumination zones, each with their own unique personalities and tasty pit stops along the way.
To top it all off – we have our Christmas Village full of cracking local food, delicious drinks and plenty of festive cheer!
The Twilight Tales
Boardman Gate Entrance, Baring St, Manchester M1 2PY
When?
Selected dates from 13th November through to 23rd December 2025. Time slots vary
What To Expect
Twilight Tales is an enchanting festive adventure at Freight Island — a glowing, interactive world of lights, soundscapes, and storytelling. Wander through immersive walkthrough experiences, discover hidden elves, and step aboard the Twilight Express or explore the North Pole Playground.
The trail is expected to last approx 30 minutes however does depend on your pace.
Land Of The Lights
Gulliver's World, Warrington WA5 9YZ
When?
Selected dates from 8th November to 31st January 2026. Times vary depending on day. Check website for availability.
What To Expect
Land of Lights Lantern Festival returns to Gulliver's Warrington. This year, the glow will be bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever before. Wander through a world where imagination shines, from majestic monuments to roaring dinosaurs and fantastical dreamworlds, all brought to life with breathtaking colour and creativity.
We did the trail last year as part of our Gulliver's World New Years Eve Package and it was so good. Would highly recommend.
Lanterns and Light at Chester Zoo
Moston Rd, Upton, Chester CH2 1EU
When?
Selected dates from 14th November to 3rd January 2026 - 4:30pm -8pm (time slots may vary by date)
What To Expect
This winter, Chester Zoo will transform after dark into a glowing winter wonderland of light, colour and sound. So much more than just a Christmas light trail, Lanterns & Light is an outdoor light experience that will amaze and delight you at every turn.
Interact with playful puppets, drift through the Ribbon Tunnel, gaze at kaleidoscope stars and explore the Laser Garden - plus discover new installations for 2025, including Airquarium, Bubble Walk and Submergence. Enjoy seasonal street food, warming drinks and make magical Christmas memories with loved ones.
It's been a long time since we have visited Lanterns and Light at Chester Zoo but I remember it well and it was certainly one of our favourites.
Enchanted At Knowsley Safari Park
Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot, L34 4AN
When?
Selected dates from 22nd November to 23rd December 2025 - 4:30pm -7:15pm (time slots may vary by date)
What To Expect
This Winter, Knowsley Safari transforms into a breathtaking wonderland of light and enchantment!
Wander through our dazzling illuminated Foot Safari, discover magical glowing animal installations, and soak up the festive spirit with cosy treats and family fun at every turn. Whether you're chasing adventure or festive feels, Enchanted has something for everyone!
RHS Glow At Bridgewater
Occupation Road, Off Leigh Road, Worsley, Salford, Greater Manchester, M28 2LJ
When?
Selected dates from 26th November to 30th December 2025 - 4:30pm - 9pm (time slots may vary by date)
What To Expect
Join us for an unforgettable evening as our acclaimed Glow winter illuminations return to RHS Bridgewater in Salford. Packed with brand-new features for 2025, this year’s trail promises to be as magical as ever, with dazzling new light displays, live entertainment and unique art commissions that transform the garden into a sparkling festive spectacle.
Christmas at Trentham
The Trentham Estate, Stone Road, Trentham, Stoke-On-Trent, Staffordshire, ST4 8JG
When?
Selected dates from 21st November to 4th Jan 2026 - 4:20pm - 7:40pm (time slots may vary by date)
What To Expect
Step into an enchanting illuminated trail around Staffordshire’s Trentham Gardens. Watch little faces light up in awe and wonder at the festive surprises around every corner. From interactive displays, captivating soundscapes and larger than life illuminations, this year’s Winter Light Trail is the place to create unforgettable memories with loved ones!
We are so excited that Christmas at Trentham is back for 2025.
We love visiting the different venues and experiencing the light trails. It's such a magical experience that I know we will never get tired of. Do you have any different trails I can add or if you have visited any of the above do let us know what you thought.
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