DAYSOUT
Christmas Lights & Days to Delight cont...
For those wishing to make the most of their visit, the‘ Nightlights’ stay package offers a unique opportunity for visitors to retreat to one of 14 exceptional accommodations following their festive wander- from fun family glamping to decadent lodges adjoining the animal enclosures.
Christmas in the Land of Oz, Hever Castle, Edenbridge hevercastle. co. uk Until 2 January
Follow the yellow brick road to the Land of Oz at the mighty Hever Castle! Begin your adventure in Kansas at Dorothy’ s house, meet familiar characters, stroll through Munchkin Land, spot flying monkeys in the Christmas tree forest and arrive at the whimsical Emerald City- brought to life by a dramatic green glow on the castle from dusk. Visitors can then step inside the castle to experience the warmth and grandeur of a traditional Christmas within Hever’ s seasonally adorned rooms. A visit to Father Christmas is available as an optional extra for the little ones, while an array of fairground rides await for a festive spin.
As twilight falls from 4pm, the castle, gardens and lake are festooned with fabulous colours and twinkling lights in a kaleidoscope of festive sparkle sure to delight the whole family. Bring torches and explore the interactive displays that illuminate the trees throughout the grounds- perfect for capturing photos or simply soaking up the merry wonder.
Christmas Trail, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal betteshanger-park. co. uk 6- 24 December
Wrap up warm, pop on your wellies and pack your sense of adventure for a magical ramble through Betteshanger’ s picturesque parkland, brightened by a host of joyful Christmas displays. With each £ 12 child ticket including two free accompanying adults, follow winding woodland paths and wide-open trails where glowing installations light the way and festive photo opportunities appear at every turn.
where each child will receive a special gift. This event will be separately ticketed.
Late Nights & Lights, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells nationaltrust. org. uk / visit / kent / scotney-castle 13- 22 December
Taking great inspiration from the cherished books from the castle’ s own collection- from the timeless tales of Alice in Wonderland and A Christmas Carol to Agatha Christie mysteries and Jane Austen favourites- each room of the splendid Victorian mansion house of Scotney Castle will be beautifully decorated for the festive season.
As darkness falls across the estate, the house and its immediate surroundings glimmer with festive splendour, where twinkling trees and sparkling decorations illuminate the wintry grounds. After exploring indoors, spend the evening toasting marshmallows( for a small charge), browsing the shop for gorgeous gifts and Christmas homeware, and enjoying tasty treats in the cosy tea room.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Drone Light Show Kent Showground, Detling kenteventcentre. co. uk 6 December
For one-night only and marking the county’ s very first-ever drone light show, Kent’ s starry skies will sparkle as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Drone Light Show lands at the Kent Showground. Produced by Lumina Drones, who are setting out to revolutionise live entertainment by creating a wildlife-friendly alternative to fireworks that’ s safe for pups and families of all ages, this enthralling experience will see the timeless story of Rudolph brought to life in the skies with 600 synchronised LED drones set to an original cinematic score of brand-new festive jingles. Before the main event, families can immerse themselves in the festive winter village complete with fairground rides, Santa’ s grotto, themed games, face painting and food vendors serving up seasonal treats and warming drinks.
For an extra sprinkle of Christmas magic, Betteshanger will also welcome little ones to meet Father Christmas in his cosy grotto,
SCOTNEY CASTLE
HEVER CASTLE BETTESHANGER
46 • www. insidekent. co. uk