While the autumn colours have lingered late on trees across the region, Hidcote Manor Garden is bringing an extra splash of colour with the return of their popular “Enchanted Garden”.
The National Trust garden is being transformed into an illuminated winter wonderland, with trees and shrubs gracefully lit against the darkness.
The annual event will run from Friday November 29 to Sunday December 1. A professional lighting production company will work in partnership with Hidcote to create the spectacle.
Lisa Edinborough, Visitor Experience and Enterprise Manager, said: “This is an increasingly popular event where people really love being immersed in the magical atmosphere created by intricately lit plants and shrubs and some of our most magnificent trees flooded with colour. It is a delight for both adults and children alike who really enjoy the opportunity to let their imagination run away, into a world where our statues and their shadows come to life and the plants which have normally gone to bed for the winter take on a new life of their own. The lighting highlights a completely different perspective to Hidcote.”
Hidcote, in the heart of the north Cotswolds near Chipping Campden, is one of the most admired twentieth century arts and crafts gardens. It is usually open for visitors 11am to 4pm at weekends at this time of year; However, the National Trust is now encouraging people to enjoy an entirely new aspect of Hidcote with the opportunity to see one of England’s greatest gardens by night.
The exterior of the manor house, outhouses in the courtyard and approximately one third of the 10.5 acre garden will be artistically and creatively lit, taking visitors on a journey throughout some of the famous and most loved areas of Hidcote.
“It is great fun for visitors and for our volunteers who all love experiencing the garden in a new way,” added Lisa.
“For those who know the garden well, it will focus their attention on different aspects of the trees and the layout of the garden rooms. It is a gentle and peaceful way to present the garden and a delight on a chilly winter evening.”
Groups as well as individuals are welcome. Visitors will follow a special route around the garden and stewards will be on hand. Everyone is advised to wear sturdy shoes and appropriate clothing.
Hidcote’s restaurant, shop and plant centre will be open, providing an opportunity to warm up with a hot drink and do some early Christmas shopping.
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The event takes place on November 23, 24, 29, and Sunday December 1, from 5 – 8pm.
Tickets cost: Adult £7, Child £5, Family £20 (members and non-members).
For more information, visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hidcote
or call: 01386 438333.
