On the trail of something festive...
KEW’S OUTDOOR EVENT AIMS TO LIGHT UP YOUR CHRISTMAS
CHRISTMAS is just around the corner, but coronavirus restrictions mean that the usual calendar of festive events can’t take place.
However, Christmas trails can be a good alternative, as they’re outside.
The famous Christmas lights trail at Kew Gardens is now in its eighth year, and features a million twinkling lights, 10,000 illuminated roses singing Christmas songs, and a 40-metre-long illuminated tunnel.
The event was postponed due to the November lockdown, but officially opened on December 4, and will now be running later until January 17.
Organisers say the trail will bring some “much needed post-lockdown festive cheer” and will feature old favourites as well as brand new light installations.
Visitors will have to book time slots and follow a one-way system, in line with government guidelines.
For this reason, there will not be a fairground this year, and rather than a concentrated ‘catering village’ as at previous events, food stalls will be spread across the trail.
Kew Gardens has also promised visitors that if Covid-19 developments require cancellations, they can re-book their slot or get a full refund.
Sandra Botterell, Director of Marketing and Commercial Enterprise at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, said: “In a year that has been challenging for many, we are delighted to host Christmas at Kew, and have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure that it will be a safe event for all.
“I am sure you will agree that we could all do with a bit of festive cheer, and I am confident that a wander through our spectacular Gardens, illuminated by over one million lights, will bring joy to our visitors this winter.”
The trail is approximately 2.6km long and takes an estimated 75 minutes to walk.
Tickets are from £19.50 for adults and from £12 for children.
Christmas at Kew is open 4–10pm and you choose a time slot for entry (last entry 8pm).
The main entrance is via Victoria Gate, Brentford Gate if you book a ticket with reserved parking, or Lion Gate for guests travelling from Richmond.
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