Christmas at Hillsborough Castle lights trail details revealed

Highlights will include a Laser Garden, a huge Christmas Cathedral of lights and a Snowdrop Walk.

The magical after-dark trail, set to classical festive tunes, will enchant visitors at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens on selected nights from December 3, 2021, to January 2, 2022.

BOOK TICKETS: Tickets are on sale now. For prices, dates, timings, event information and more visit www.hrp.org.uk/christmasathillsborough.

Parking will be free of charge.

The trail is being brought to Northern Ireland for the first time by the creators of the magical Christmas illuminations at London’s Royal Botanic Gardens Kew.

The trail is designed for visitors of all ages to enjoy and organisers say Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens will be an unmissable outdoor experience to celebrate the festive season.

Twinkling lights, colourful trees and amazing illuminated installations will transform the estate’s beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens into a winter wonderland.

Guests will discover sparkling tunnels of light, walk under giant baubles and beneath trees drenched in jewel-like colour.

There will be the chance to pause and admire the mesmerising flickering flames in a real fire garden, find the mistletoe bench and spot Father Christmas along the mile-long trail, a one to two hours leisurely walk, accompanied to a soundtrack of Christmas classics.

Independent street food vendors will bring a delicious twist to tasty treats on offer, for an additional fee, including festive hot drinks like a spiced winter warmer or hot chocolate complete with some delicious toasted marshmallows perfect for sharing with someone special.

Claire Woods, Gardens Manager at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens said: “We’re really excited about creating a magic new experience in our much-loved gardens this Christmas season.

"We hope that visitors young and old alike will enjoy getting in the festive spirit with our sparkling displays, and make memories that will last a lifetime.”

Christmas at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens is being brought by Sony Music in partnership with Historic Royal Palaces. The trail is created by Culture Creative.

For more visit www.hrp.org.uk/christmasathillsborough.