I don’t know about you, but I am starting to really feel these long, dark nights. Everyone I talk to has a gloomy look about them too. So, of course, I’ve been looking into ways to bring a little light and colour to our evenings. We’re even willing to drive over an hour to Gloucestershire’s Sudeley Castle for one of the most spectacular light trails near Bristol.
The Spectacle of Light is back at the Cotswolds castle for its ninth year with an after-dark experience themed around the beloved fairytale, Sleeping Beauty. On select evenings from November 22 to December 30, its award-winning gardens will be beautifully illuminated with dazzling lights, immersive storytelling and unforgettable installations.
Nic Beeby, Founder of Spectacle of Light, said: “This year, we’re thrilled to bring the much-loved tale of Sleeping Beauty to life against the breathtaking backdrop of Sudeley Castle. With stunning new light displays and memorable characters, this year’s trail promises to be our most captivating yet, offering visitors an unforgettable festive journey through one of the UK’s most picturesque and historic settings.”
What can I expect to find at Sudeley Castle’s Spectacle of Light?
Bring this magical story to life, there’s a Princess who has been in a deep sleep for 100 years, a heroic Prince destined to wake her, and a host of other memorable characters like The Wicked Fairy and the Good Fairies interacting with visitors. You’ll find them threaded throughout an array of stunning installations on this trail.
This includes a new avenue of sparkling arches along the castle’s magnificent HaHa, enormous woodland chandeliers, and two giant overgrown thrones in the picturesque ruins of the Tithe Barn. On top, St Mary’s Chapel, the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr (Henry VIII’s surviving wife), will also be bathed in soft, glowing candlelight.
As you follow the illuminated trail, make sure to warm up on spiced mulled wine and sprinkled hot chocolates, along with freshly made doughnuts. The family-friendly trail in this 600-year-old castle is open on the following dates: November 22-24, 29-30, December 1, 6-8, 12-15, 17-23, and 27-30. Entry time slots are from 4.45pm to 7:15pm, approximately taking 60 -75 minutes to complete.
How do I get there from Bristol?
Sudeley Castle is located near Cheltenham and will take you 1-1.5 hours to drive from Bristol city centre up the M5. There is on-site free parking for Spectacle of Light visitors too. Alternatively, you can take a train directly to Cheltenham, where you may take a bus or taxi to the Grade I listed castle, but this will take you slightly longer.
How much is Spectacle of Light?
Advanced tickets for the Spectacle of Light are available now until November 21, offering visitors a 10% discount on all full-price tickets. With that, an advanced adult ticket only costs £22.50, while a child’s ticket (3-15) is £12.60. Grab a 2+2 family ticket for only £59.40. To buy your entry to Spectacle of Light head here or phone 01242 705555.