As the nights draw in, our team is buzzing with excitement. Light Up Trails returns to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in Romsey, Hampshire, just 20 minutes from Southampton and 25 minutes from Winchester, and this year’s experience is unlike anything we’ve ever created.

We’ve completely reimagined the trail, introducing immersive themed zones with multiple installations in each. Many of these artworks have never been seen before, each one designed to surprise, delight and move you.

This year I’ve worked closely with our brilliant Production and Lighting Designer, James Smith, to take the creative vision to a new level. James has crafted much of the lighting design throughout the trail, from the Festive Village to the Enchanted Hollow, and has also collaborated on the Seasons of Light projection, enhancing the piece with light and special effects that bring the story to life.

Your journey begins the moment you arrive. The new entrance, “Step into the Magic”, sets the tone — a beautifully illuminated sign that’s sure to become one of many selfie moments along the trail. The pathway is filled with glowing lanterns that guide you gently into the gardens.

In Bloom and Glow, expect a kaleidoscope of colour: soft pink illuminated flowers blending into a multi-coloured canopy of fern-like structures within the national oak collection. A moment of serenity awaits at the Peace Sign, a calm pause before you reach the mesmerising Wish Pond, where floating stars shimmer on the water and you can send your own message to the sky.

Then the tempo rises. Rhythm of Light is back by popular demand, with artist Jon Oliver returning to fill the night with lasers, strobes and a euphoric soundtrack that energises the gardens. From there, the path leads into our Festive Village, complete with an eight-metre Christmas tree, giant gifts and baubles, and all the festive treats and drinks you could wish for.

This year’s showpiece, The Christmas Wish, is a stunning new projection by the award-winning Double Take Projections. It tells the story of a little boy’s dream Christmas, a heartfelt reminder of every child’s wonder during the season.

In the Enchanted Hollow, lighting designed by James Smith, you’ll step into a world alive with bubbles, fairies and birds swirling above and around you, culminating in the spectacular Rhizome by international artist Bobolito & Co.

And then, prepare to be moved by Seasons of Light, a breathtaking projection by Brightside Studios, tracing the beauty of light through each glorious season — foxes darting through leaves, birds migrating, flowers bursting into bloom, rainbows after the rain, and finally, the quiet arrival of snow as robins appear in the glow.

Super Peak Nights

On our Super Peak Nights, the gardens burst into life. We’ve doubled the number of entertainers, creating a constant flow of performance, movement and light throughout the evening.

Across four illuminated zones you’ll encounter Ice Fairies and Featherlight Characters gliding together in shimmering harmony, Mirror Ball Heads scattering reflections through the night, Flower Fairies glowing among giant blooms, and Fire Artists filling the air with sparks and heat.

Every act has been choreographed to complement its surroundings, with bespoke costumes designed especially for each zone. The result is a seamless spectacle — a night where the entire trail feels alive with energy and wonder.

If you want to experience Light Up Trails at its most magical, Super Peak Nights are the ones to book.

This year, our creative team has poured their hearts into every detail. There are selfie moments at every turn, from glowing pathways to breathtaking installations, so visitors will be truly spoilt for choice. We can confidently say it’s our most ambitious and magical light trail yet and it’s a celebration of imagination, artistry and joy.

We can’t wait to share it with you.

Libby Battaglia, Creative Director, Light Up Trails