This might be the first sign of Christmas you've seen all year, but don't roll your eyes just yet! The elves have been working their magic all across Kent and we're getting ready to start celebrating the winter wonderland that the county is becoming. Wherever you may find yourself this festive season, whether that be at one of our iconic heritage sites or stunning natural landscapes, you're sure to find a Christmas trail to enjoy with family and friends.
Leeds Castle
22nd November – 1st January
Making its return for a third year running is Leeds Castle’s enchanting Christmas trail with new vibrant installations to set the stage for creating those magical and cherished memories with loved ones. Bring your friends and families to make that everlasting memory and wander past the towering glowing reeds and the colour-changing lilies shimmering and dancing on the lake. We won’t say too much more as we don’t want to ruin the surprise but expect new things for this year’s light trail.
Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest
15th November - 1st January
Make this year memorable with your friends and family by venturing out to Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest and explore their after-dark trail this winter, boasting over a million twinkling tunnels of lights and sounds filling the air with a festive spirit. Don’t forget to spot the beautiful sparkling flock of jolly robins and make sure to grab a seasonal snack and drink from the café to complete your festive walk.
Chartwell
23rd November – 7th January
Are you feeling festive yet? An exciting adventure awaits at Chartwell this year, celebrating Sir Winston Churchill’s 150th birthday. For those little ones this year there will be a spotter trail located in the house and if that’s not enough excitement for you then pick up a Christmas tree trail sheet and head to the gardens to find the stamping stations to decorate your tree.
Scotney Castle
23rd November – 5th January
Come and spot your favourite stories, from pantomime, ballet and film which will be setting the scene throughout the house. The stories will be brought to life with beautiful items from Scotney’s vast collection including theatrical costumes. The mansion at Scotney Castle is decadently decorated with a theatrical theme, inspired by the Hussey family’s love of the performing arts. The exterior of the mansion will be beautifully illuminated at twilight openings (14th and 15th December, 18th – 22nd December).
Sissinghurst Castle
W/C 18th November – 5th January
Delve into the magic this Christmas and discover the Elizabethan-inspired displays, decorations and Christmas trees creating a festive atmosphere at Sissinghurst’s Castle Gardens, created by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson. Discover the stunning floral installation around the archway leading you into the gardens, which have been transformed into a winter landscape. Families will feel festive in the Elizabethan play tent and trail plus there will also be a wreath making workshop using natural materials collected from the estate.
Reuthes Candy Cane Trail
1st December – 23rd December
When someone says Christmas what do you think of? Well for us, candy canes are one of the first things we think of which is why this trail is top of the list! Make your way around Reuthes – the lost garden of Sevenoaks woodland trail with hidden themed surprises along the way. Find the lettered candy canes to complete your trail sheet and then collect your prize from the café.
Tonbridge Castle
24th November – 29th December
This is one to mark in your diaries! Come and see Tonbridge Castle and its amazing new extended trail showcasing the historic castle grounds. Plus there are more food and drinks stalls available to keep you warm! Join Tonbridge Castle for a fun-filled night of unrivalled experiences and memories that will stay with you and your family (or friends) forever…
Betteshanger Park
23rd November - 31st December
Come and delve into the magic at Betteshanger Park, which creates the perfect festive scene for everyone of all ages! Discover the enchanting light displays and beautiful Christmas scenes, and follow the shining pathways.
