Christmas at Stourhead

Created by award-winning, internationally acclaimed light trail producers and firmly positioned within the UK’s seasonal calendar, Christmas at Stourhead has everything you need for an unforgettable time with friends and family, including a magical glimpse of Father Christmas along the way.

Discover a sea of light stretching out into the distance across the lake, huge feathers floating high into the night sky, sparkling tunnels of light and illuminations that fill the air with all the colours of the rainbow.

Grab a seasonal snack from one of the hand-picked street food vendors who bring an indulgent twist to tempting treats on offer. Complete your walk under the stars with a perfectly festive *spiced winter warmer, *hot chocolate or *toasted marshmallow and share it with someone special.

Your very merriest Christmas starts here. Limited capacity with timed entry. You can find further information and links to privacy policies below. Plan now to secure the date and time of your choice. Tickets can be booked by creating an account on the external Ticketek website via the 'Book your tickets' button.

*separate charges apply

Essential information

Christmas at Stourhead 2024 will run from 29 November to 1 January. Tickets are allocated by staggered trail start times and digital or printed tickets are accepted.

The trail is approximately one mile long and it'll take around 90 minutes, walking at a regular pace. The event takes place outdoors and you may need to queue on busy days, so please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear.

Food and drink are available onsite. Food and drink can be found at the beginning and end of the trail, with additional refreshments also available. Separate charges apply for all food and drink.

Car parking is available onsite but must be pre-booked at the time of ticket purchase. Parking is free for National Trust members with a valid membership card. Parking is available at an additional charge for non-National Trust members.

Caring for the environment

Christmas at Stourhead takes place at one of the National Trust’s most visited places.

As a home for important animal species, annual ecological surveys support us to ensure the impact of the event on this beautiful place is carefully managed.

The trail route, lights and sound are planned with bat roosts, animal homes, and ancient trees in mind. Using bio-fuel and efficient approaches to power usage helps us reduce any environmental impact.

As a conservation charity, the care and longevity of Stourhead remain our ultimate priority. Every ticket sold supports the conservation and care of Stourhead for everyone, forever.

Access information

Quiet sessions

These sessions are for adults and young people who would love to experience a calmer Christmas at Stourhead without the usual high volumes of people. They will begin at twilight before the illuminated trail opens to the public, making the transition into the dark much easier. These sessions will be held on Sunday 1 December at 4pm and Thursday 5 December at 4pm. Book a quiet session.

Paths

The Christmas at Stourhead trail route follows the garden paths, some of which can be steep in places. These paths are checked and cared for, daily.

Path markers can be non-traditional – for example strings of lights or short barriers.

Seating

Limited seating is located along the route for those who may require a brief pause in the walk. Seating can also be found at the beginning and end of the trail, alongside the food and drink.

Dogs and guide dogs

Guide dogs and registered assistance dogs are very welcome at this event. No other dogs can be admitted. Please be aware that the trail can become very busy at peak times.

Specific accessibility questions

If you have any specific questions relating to accessibility or what to expect at Christmas at Stourhead, we are very happy to help. You can email us at stourhead@nationaltrust.org.uk.

Thank you

Every ticket sold supports the conservation and care of Stourhead for everyone, forever.