Where to Find Christmas Light Trails in Kent – Explore Outdoor Festive Events
Christmas Light Trails and Festive Walks in Kent 🎄
Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest – Goudhurst
Immerse yourself in a new, reimagined trail at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, created by the award-winning light trail producers behind events such as Christmas at Kew and Christmas at Blenheim.
- Dates: 21 November – 31 December 2025 (selected evenings)
- Trail Length: 1.9 km loop through illuminated forest paths
- Father Christmas: Spot him along the trail!
- Accessibility: Mostly level paths with some slopes; suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Relaxed sessions available.
- Ticket Prices:
- Adult: £26 (standard), £18 (off-peak)
- Child (3–15): £18 (standard), £12 (off-peak)
- Under 3s: Free (ticket required)
- Family (2 adults + 2 children): £84 (standard), £57 (off-peak)
- Parking: £8 per car (free for Forestry England members)
- Food & Drink: Multiple festive stalls offering hot chocolate, mulled wine, marshmallow toasting, and hot food
- Parking: Pre-booked only; accessible bays available
- Dogs: Welcome on short leads
Bedgebury magical illuminated trail
Leeds Castle – Maidstone
A 1.2 mile light trail with gentle paths, food vendors, and Santa appearances. Experience the magic of Christmas Lights at Leeds Castle as the historic estate is transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland.
- Dates: 21 Nov – 31 Dec
- Trail Length: 1.2 miles / 1.9 km
- Father Christmas: Yes – appearances along the trail
- Accessibility: Firm paths with gentle inclines; suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs
- Tickets:
- Adult: £24 (peak), £22.50 (standard), £18 (off-peak)
- Child: £17 (peak), £16 (standard), £13 (off-peak)
- Parking: £7 (Blue Badge £6)
- Food & Drink: Street food vendors, marshmallow firepits, festive drinks
- Parking: Must be pre-booked
Christmas Lights at Leeds Castle
Hever Castle – Edenbridge
Begin in Kansas at Dorothy’s house, meet familiar characters along the way, and be swept into the colourful Land of Oz through charming displays.
- Dates: 21 Nov – 2 Jan
- Father Christmas: Yes – optional grotto visit (£10 per child)
- Accessibility: Suitable for pushchairs; wheelchair access to ground floor
- Tickets:
- Adult: £25
- Child (3–15): £15
- Under 3s: Free
- Parking: Free
- Food & Drink: Cafés, kiosks, festive food stalls
Hever Castle Christmas Lights Experience
Scotney Castle – Lamberhurst
Storybook-themed decorations with accessible paths and a festive tea-room.
- Dates: 22 Nov – 4 Jan
- Theme: Cover to Cover – storybook decorations
- Father Christmas: No grotto, but festive letter-writing station
- Accessibility: Wheelchair access to ground floor; accessible toilets and parking
- Tickets: Normal admission applies
- Food & Drink: Tea-room with seasonal treats; marshmallow toasting
- Parking: Must be pre-booked
Visit National Trust’s Website
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve – Hythe
A 1.5 km light trail with Santa’s grotto, wildlife park entry, and marshmallow stations.
- Dates: 28 Nov – 3 Jan
- Trail Length: Approx. 1.5 km
- Father Christmas: Yes – grotto visit (£22 per child)
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; SEN night available
- Tickets:
- Adult: From £21
- Child: From £10
- Includes entry to wildlife park from 2pm
- Food & Drink: Orangery food hall, marshmallow station, festive desserts
- Parking: Included with ticket
Brands Hatch – West Kingsdown
An enchanting light trail in woodland parts of the venue, featuring illuminations (some with a motor racing twist!), food stalls and fairground rides.
- Dates: 21 Nov – 31 Dec
- Trail Length: You’ll follow an illuminated 1.6km trail on foot that winds around the circuit grounds
- Father Christmas: No – but you can meet Elderwood, a magical talking tree, full of wisdom and wonder. Both little ones and big ones alike can share their special wishes by posting them to Elderwood.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair viewing areas; accessible parking
- Tickets:
- Adult: £18
- Child: £12 (3-15), under 3s FREE
- Parking: Unlimited free parking on hard standing, with designated disabled parking for blue badge holders.
- Food & Drink: Festive food court, marshmallow toasting, funfair rides
Knole Park – Sevenoaks
A sculpture trail featuring The Snowman™, with accessible paths and a seasonal café.
- Dates: 22 Nov – 4 Jan
- Trail: Walking with The Snowman™ – 12 sculptures
- Father Christmas: No grotto, but festive trails and activities
- Accessibility: Step-free access to café and visitor centre; accessible toilets
- Tickets:
- Trail: £6 per child
- Admission: Required for car park access
- Food & Drink: Brewhouse Café with seasonal menu
- Parking: Included with admission
🎁 Explore More with Explore Kent
Looking for even more festive fun? Visit our Christmas Markets page for expected dates and details of Kent’s seasonal shopping experiences.
Planning your winter adventures? Explore our winter walking routes and accessible trails for more ways to enjoy the outdoors this season.
Explore Kent also offers:
- Family-friendly outdoor challenges and events
- Resources to help you get active and explore nature
And if you are planning a peaceful winter stroll, do not miss our Wonderful Winter Walks guide – featuring scenic routes perfect for crisp days, frosty mornings, and festive outings.
Let Explore Kent be your go-to guide for outdoor adventures this Christmas – and all year round.