VISITING a winter light trail has become an annual tradition for many in the run-up to Christmas, with multiple venues now offering their own version of this popular experience.

Light Up Hillier Gardens has been created by award-winning producers who returned for a third year following an outpouring of rave reviews in 2023.

However, organisers were forced to halt preparations for the opening – due to be on Wednesday, November 27 – because of safety concerns surrounding Storm Bert.

They were then delivered another blow when they returned to find thieves had stolen more than £80,000 worth of cables from the arboretum during the storm.

Despite this disappointing setback, the trail was miraculously still ready to open just a day late on Thursday, November 28 when I went to visit.

Having visited last year, I had high expectations. However, my experience was slightly marred by difficulties getting to the site by car. It took 20 minutes to enter the car park, however, there were plenty of free spaces to park once inside, suggesting the issue was with the marshalling efforts.

This stress and frustration were soon forgotten, however, when we were dazzled by the festive lights that greeted us upon arrival at the entrance.

The trail winds through gardens with magical and creative displays around every corner to capture your imagination, from a breathtaking field of red tulips to a forest of beautiful butterflies twinkling in the trees, accompanied by sounds and music adding to the atmosphere.

The trail is perfect for all ages, with fun, interactive elements for children including a chance to see your name in lights and a colourful piano walkway, with the keys playing when stepped on.

Halfway there are a variety of food outlets and a bar, offering visitors the chance to stop for something to eat or drink, including some tempting-looking giant marshmallows that could be toasted over a fire.

A highlight for me was a clever storytelling element with sounds of creatures and giants lurking in the depths of the dark undergrowth, creating an eerie atmosphere.

It was great to see some of the popular elements return from last year along with new enchanting installations that captivate your senses at every turn.

As we reached the top there was a stunning view across the trail from above, showing all the colourful lights illuminating the trees and paths. There was no sign that the organisers had faced such difficulties in the run-up to the opening.

It took around an hour to make our way around and we left feeling festive with unforgettable memories of another mesmerising experience.

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