CHRISTMASINKENT
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT LEEDS CASTLE
Christmas Lights at Leeds Castle , Maidstone leeds-castle . com 22 Nov 2024 - 1 Jan 2025
A magical trail with new lights for 2024 , Leeds Castle ’ s Christmas lights are an unmissable outdoor experience for all ages to enjoy . Visitors can meander through striking light installations designed by a selection of international artists and choreographed to a soundtrack of festive music that mirrors the castle ’ s enchanting story . Along the walk , marvel at the stunning moated castle and its Christmas Cathedral of Lights installation with giant baubles to walk under and illuminated trees to gaze upon . With glowing reeds , colourchanging lilies on the lake and sparkling tunnels , the installations are sure to take your breath away .
To complete this picture-perfect venture under the stars , visitors can head to one of the independent street food vendors to discover the tasty treats on offer . With hot chocolate and both sweet and savoury treats to enjoy , there ’ s something to ensure that everyone will leave a festive evening at Leeds Castle with warm bellies and lighter hearts . If you happen to glimpse Father Christmas along the way , be sure to give him a wave !
A CHRISTMAS FROST AT KNOLE
A Christmas Frost at Knole , Sevenoaks nationaltrust . org . uk 23 Nov 2024 - 5 Jan 2025
Stood within Kent ’ s last medieval deer park , Knole is a 600-year-old estate with courtyards , showrooms , a Gatehouse Tower and acres of parkland with winding paths to explore . Visitors this Christmas season can enjoy the abundance of silver-frosted trees , glittering decorations and sparkling displays within Knole ’ s historic showrooms . To catch a glimpse of the estate ’ s panoramic views , visitors can climb the Gatehouse Tower ’ s spiral staircase or wander through the parkland ’ s winter trails . With free-roaming deer and excellent viewing spots for picnics , families can easily make a festive day out of traversing the Kentish countryside .
Knole also offers creative Christmas workshops at this time of year , with everything from wreath- and garlandmaking to creating decorations out of fused glass , clay or woodcut . On select weekend days , the Green Court also hosts choir performances , so guests should pre-book admission to guarantee entry .
The Elf on the Shelf Christmas Adventure Bluewater , Greenhithe bluewater . co . uk 16 Nov 2024 - 24 Dec 2024
This never-seen-before interactive experience guarantees to transport your little ones straight to the North Pole from the heart of one of the UK ’ s most popular shopping centres . During the event , adventurers will source the help of Scout Elves to spread Christmas cheer by completing a series of magical games and challenges , which include making a wish at the wish-gatherer , Christmas tree decorating and snowball throwing . Lasting 25 minutes , each little helper is given their very own elf name and a gift to take home .
After joining this elven adventure , families will find themselves in a perfect place to buy Christmas gifts , with over 300 shops across the Bluewater shopping centre . For the most fun-filled day out , there is also a Gravity trampoline park , a 17-screen Showcase Cinema de Lux and the Skywire - England ’ s longest zipline - to enjoy . www . insidekent . co . uk • 53