Festive Illumination Light Trail 2026
28th November - 28th December 2026 | From 4:30pm-7:30pm *Please note when selecting a session time, that is only allocated for entry. You can stay until the park closes at 8pm.
The light trail that families from Bristol and beyond have made part of their Christmas tradition returns for its 5th spectacular year.
After four magical seasons, we know exactly how to bring the sparkle, while ensuring no two Old Down Illumination Trails are ever the same. Discover brand-new displays, wander through glowing walkways, soak up the festive atmosphere in our Christmas Village and watch the Country Park and Estate transform into an enchanting after-dark experience. Bigger, brighter and more magical than ever, we can't wait to share Christmas 2026 with you.
Make an evening of it in our Christmas Village, where the whole family can share in the festive fun. Toast your free marshmallows over the fire pits, purchase a warm glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate and enjoy our famous apple crumble with cream or custard. Our Adventure Park will be lit up for even more twilight adventures for the little ones. Dogs are welcome too, so no one has to miss out on the fun.
Members get 45% off tickets – please sign in to your members portal to book.
Whether you're returning for another magical Christmas tradition or discovering us for the very first time, Old Down's 5th Illumination Light Trail promises a spectacular journey of lights, festive cheer and magical memories for family and friends alike, And like always, free parking for all our visitors.
It's more than just a light trail...
- Free parking
- Free marshmallow toasting
- Dog friendly
- Little ones can enjoy the Adventure Park after dark
- Mulled wine, hot chocolate and apple crumble available to purchase
- Members get 45% off all dates (when booked through your members portal)
- Quiet sessions on Monday 14th December (low noise, reduced capacity)
FAQ's
Can I bring my dog? Yes! We're a dog friendly venue and welcome well-behaved dogs. We just ask that you please keep them on a lead at all times and clean up after them.
Why are there sessions and does that limit us? We use sessions to stagger entry so queue times are shortened. You can enter anytime within your session and you can stay and enjoy the Illumination Light Trail for as long as you'd like until our park closes at 8pm.
I'm a member, what do I get? 45% off all dates, when booked through your members portal.
What is your 'Quieter' session? On Monday 14th December, we offer reduced capacity, lower noise sessions designed for visitors who prefer a calmer experience. This session is ideal for families, individuals with sensory sensitivities, or anyone who enjoys a more relaxed visit.
I can't make the session/date I booked for, can I get a refund? We do not offer refunds but we are more than happy to change your booking to another preferred time or date. Subject to availability.
How long does it take to walk around the trail? There is no time limit on our trail and you can walk around the trail as many times as you'd like up until our park closure at 8pm.
Is the trail wheelchair accessible? Yes, our trail is on flat ground with a mixed terrain of tarmac, stone, grass and wood chips.
Does my ticket include general admission for the day? No. If you would like to visit the park in the day and then do our light trail in the evening, you must purchase separate tickets. Please note, all guests have to leave the park at 4pm to then re-enter at their designated time. They cannot stay in the park and wait.
If you have another query, please email us on [email protected].