Winter Light Trail at Trentham Estate

Christmas light trails have become a much-loved tradition, bringing sparkle and magic to the festive season. Across Staffordshire and beyond, you’ll find a whole host of illuminated experiences for 2025; from twinkling woodland walks to grand historic estates glowing with colour, these trails are a wonderful way for families to celebrate together.

For us, Trentham tops the list. Its magical atmosphere, combined with fun interactive elements, makes it perfect for keeping the kids entertained. If you’re happy to travel a little further, Chatsworth House is an unforgettable experience. The light trail, paired with the Christmas market, creates a truly festive day out, and seeing Chatsworth illuminated at the end of the walk was nothing short of magical.

And while those are our personal favourites, there’s a lovely range of light trails to explore. Each one offers its own unique charm, so whichever you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable festive outing. Here’s our full guide to the Christmas light trails in and around Staffordshire this year.

Winter Light Trail at Trentham Estate

Christmas Light Trails in Staffordshire

1. Illuminated Arboretum

Head over to the National Memorial Arboretum for an evening to remember and see the Arboretum light up after hours to celebrate the festive season with a kaleidoscope of colour.

Where? National Memorial Arboretum, Croxall Road, Alrewas, Staffordshire, DE13 7AR
When? 5th – 22nd December 2025 from 4.30pm
How much? Advance tickets from £20 
Click here to purchase tickets

2. Winter Light Trail at Trentham Estate

Head over to Trentham Estate for a beautiful glittering adventure this Christmas. You will wander through a mile of magical illuminations and interactive displays throughout Trentham Gardens. There will also be Marshmallow toasting, a funfair and local independent food vendors.

Please note that this event is dog friendly.

Where? Trentham Estate, Stone Road, Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 8JG
When? November 21st 2025 – January 4th 2026
How much? tbc
Click here to purchase tickets

Winter Light Trail at Trentham Estate
Winter Light Trail at Trentham Estate

3. Shugborough Estate Winter Light Trail

Head over to Shugborough Estate this Christmas for a spectacular, illuminated trail, through the stunning, historic grounds of Shugborough Estate. Immerse yourself in this spectacular mile long trail, with beautiful lighting elements and fabulous light play, all set to music. There will also be hot drinks available, toasted marshmallows and mulled wine.

Where? Shugborough Estate, Milford, Great Haywood, Stafford. ST17 0UP
When? tbc
How much? tbc
Click here to purchase tickets (not yet available)

Christmas Light Trails near to Staffordshire

4. Christmas at Magical Wonderland

Head over the the 15 acre enchanted Cheshire Woodland for 2024 to experience never seen before light features, sounds, Mr & Mrs Claus and interactive fun. Don’t forget to refuel and warm up with tasty snacks and hot drinks around our firepits!

Where? Cheshire Outdoors, Blakemere Village, Sandiway, Cheshire, CW8 2EB
When? Friday 28th November – Wednesday 24th December 2025
How much? Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £82.30 
Click here to purchase tickets

5. Lanterns and Lights at Chester Zoo

Back by popular demand for 2025, head over to Chester Zoo to experience the magic of Lanterns and Light! This winter, wander through an illuminated trail of spectacular scenes and breathtaking displays that will leave you full of Christmas joy.

Where? Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester, Chester, CH2 1LH 
When? Thursday 13th November 2025 – Saturday 3rd January 2026
How much? Tickets from £12
Click here to purchase tickets

6. Bewilderwood Cheshire

Head to Bewilderwood in Cheshire this Christmas for a host of Christmas activities including a sparkly light trail, and panto magic.

Sorry, no dogs allowed.

Where? BeWilderwood Cheshire, Malpas, Bickley Moss, Cheshire, Whitchurch SY13 4JF
When? Selected dates over November and December 2025
How much? Under 92cm free, Between 92cm – 105cm £17.50, adults £17.50, carer free.
Click here to purchase tickets

7. Christmas at Dunham Massey, Altrincham

Head to Dunham Massey to experience the twinkling lights, beautiful installations, and seasonal music against the beautiful backdrop of the Dunham Massey gardens.This family friendly event offers the perfect light trail experience over the festive period.

Where? Dunham Massey Altrincham, Greater Manchester WA14 4SJ
When? 14th November 2025 – 3rd January 2026 
How much? Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) £88
Click here to purchase tickets

8. Christmas in the Gardens at Chatsworth House

Head over to Chatsworth House this Christmas for an interactive light trail in Chatsworth House and Gardens. The trail culminates in an animated projection on the house inspired by Chatsworth’s history and collections, and our new festive story. 

Where? Chatsworth Bakewell Derbyshire DE45 1PP
When? 8th November 2025 – 4th January 2026
How much? tbc
Click here to purchase tickets (released soon)

Christmas in the Gardens at Chatsworth House
Christmas in the Gardens at Chatsworth House

9. Yuletide at Tatton Park

Step into an incredible glittering adventure at Tatton Park Gardens this year and fall into a world of folklore, festive tradition and rituals as the characters and creatures from winter myths and stories come to life!

Enjoy live music and fire juggling, storytelling and performances and toast marshmallows around the fire!

Where? Tatton Park, Knutsford, Cheshire, WA16 6QN
When? tbc
How much? tbc
Click here to purchase tickets (released soon)

Yuletide at Tatton Park
Yuletide at Tatton Park