We’ve rounded up three of the most magical Christmas light trails to visit within a 90-minute drive of south east London.
The festive season is fast approaching and with it the opening of enchanting light trails up and down the country this winter.
From stunning castles to scenic woodlands, some of Kent’s most popular festive light trails will be returning for Christmas this year.
If you fancy taking a drive into the countryside to see some of Kent’s most iconic landmarks decorated for Christmas, we’ve rounded up some of the best light trails to visit within a 90-minute drive of south east London.
Bedgebury Forest
Where? Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Lady Oak Lane, Goudhurst, TN17 2SJ
When? November 11 – December 31
How much? Off peak tickets are £19 for adults, £13 for children aged 3-16 years and £61 for families (2 adults & 2 children), while infants aged 0-2 and personal assistants go free.
Returning for 2023, the popular Bedgebury Forest offers guests a chance to walk through an enchanted woodland illuminated with lights.
During the trail you’ll spot a number of sights from doves perched in trees, light tunnels and of course a chance to see the man in red himself.
Refreshments will be served from the Bedgebury Café including a range of festive treats.
Accessible parking is also available for Blue Badge holders in the Visitor Centre car park and free parking is available for Bedgebury and National Forestry England Members when booked in advance.
Hever Castle
Where? Hever Castle, Hever Road, Hever, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG
When? November 18 – January 1
How much? Daytime tickets start at £22 for adults and £13.50 for children aged 5-17. Children under 5 and Annual Members go free.
Returning for its 17th year, the historical home of Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle, will be decorated both inside and out for the festive season.
Starting from November 18, guests will have the chance to explore the grounds of Hever Castle illuminated for Christmas everyday from 4pm up until January 1.
Guests will have the chance to see Hever Castle’s famous landmarks lit up, with appearances from whimsical characters like Red the squirrel in the “Lost in the Festive Forest” light trail and his festive friends.
Guests can also explore the inside of the castle, which will be decorated with Christmas trees, decorations and roaring log fires.
Guests will also have the chance to shop at the gift shops and eat seasonal food served at their cafés and food kiosks.
Rides will also be available, from a vintage-inspired carousel to a big wheel offering views of the castle from up high.
Leeds Castle
Where? Leeds Castle, Broomfield, Maidstone, ME17 1PL
When? November 24 – December 31
How much? Off peak tickets are £18 for adults, £13 for children aged 3-16 and £59 for families (2 adults & 2 children). Infants aged 0-2 and carers go free.
Prices are higher for standard and peak tickets.
Returning for its second year, Leeds Castle’s Christmas light trail takes guests on an enchanted trail around the grounds of the historic castle.
Visitors will see woodland walks decorated with chandeliers, a laser garden and a pathway made up on mirrored hearts.
This year Leeds Castle will be recreating C.S. Lewis’s iconic book The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Guests will have the chance to pass through the wardrobe and step into “Narnia”, featuring appearances from characters like Father Christmas and the White Witch.
Tonbridge Castle
Where? Tonbridge Castle, Castle Sreett, Tonbridge, TN9 1BG
When? November 26 - December 30 4:15pm-9pm
How much? Off peak tickets are £14.30 for adults and £10.50 for children aged 3-16. Infants aged 0-2 and personal assistants go free.
Prices are higher at peak periods.
This year the historical setting of Tonbridge Castle will be decorated for Christmas in a festive light trail.
The trail, lasting 45 minutes will take gusts on a tour around the castle illuminated for Christmas along with an Apline bar, food village and Christmas market.
Dog friendly and sensory sessions will also be available on selected dates for guests.
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