Revel in the winter gardens and enjoy the magical light display. With a new series of light installations, the National Trust’s palladian house is set to wow you and your family this Christmas
If there’s ever a reason to celebrate the shorter, dark days then it has to be the arrival of the illuminated light trail at the National Trust property, Stourhead. With the wider estate reaching into both Somerset and Wiltshire, Stourhead is the ideal destination for a family friendly winter walk as you immerse yourselves in their festive light installations this December.
‘As the manager of Stourhead, I am always excited to see and feel the enchanting and magical ambiance that graces our beloved estate at this time of year’ says Philip Niemand, ‘As we leave the beauty of autumn behind us, the festive season transforms Stourhead into a winter landscape wonder that is truly something to behold.’ The magical meander through Stourhead’s unique gardens will be choreographed to a soundtrack of much-loved seasonal music. Head of UK Trails for Sony Music, Matthew Findlay says, ‘We have created a brand-new route so those people whom we welcomed to the trail last year can enjoy a different experience to make even more unforgettable Christmas memories for families, friends and loved ones. The trail is designed for visitors of all ages and is accessible for everyone to enjoy.’
By working in conjunction with a variety of light and sound experts, visitors to the Stourhead estate can expect to see light installations that they will never have seen before. The ‘Meadow of Light’ installation created by Lightworks uses fibre optics to create thousands of twinkling lights which move across the ground in waves, whereas French lighting designers, Pitaya are working alongside the team at Event Design to light up trees with a combination of animated crystals and glowing rings.
In addition to the light show, the National trust team will also be welcoming you with seasonal snacks and hot drinks as you wrap up warm and enjoy your wanderings under the stars. With wreath-making workshops, carol singing and story time with Father Christmas also on the agenda, you can be sure that your visit has something for every member of your party. Philip says, ‘The Palladian House is perhaps my secret favourite as it stands resplendent amidst the landscape gardens, quietly transforming into the very best of the season’s charm; Christmas trees festooned with twinkling lights, the scent of fresh pine, and the warmth of yuletide traditions. Every visitor is encouraged to visit the House, to immerse themselves in the rich history and cozy allure of this Palladian House, where every room tells a unique story. Plus, Stourhead is proud to again be including the cherished tradition of offering storytelling sessions with a very special jolly guest, and the shop will be bursting with local and festive gifts and products and of course the café will be dressed in festive cheer too.’
The illuminations run for the entire month of December before the calendar clicks over and the Stourhead team turn their attention to the new year. Philip says, ‘Following on from Christmas, we look forward to a very special year ahead. 2024 marks the 300th anniversary of the Palladian House being occupied, a significant milestone in the rich history of Stourhead. To commemorate this historic event, we are planning a series of events, exhibitions, and educational programmes. But the excitement doesn't stop there because I'm also thrilled to confirm that Stourhead will proudly host the launch of the Royal Geographic Society's One Earth Photo exhibition right here in our magnificent gardens in June next year. This extraordinary exhibition is set to inspire, educate, and move visitors through the power of photography and storytelling, highlighting critical issues facing our planet. Stourhead is a place of magic and wonder at any time of year – you simply must come and see for yourself. We look forward to seeing you.’
