Hestercombe has announced its plans for Christmas 2022, with a sparkling programme of festive events, in addition to its biggest-ever Christmas light spectacle - ILLUMINATE.
A world of discovery is waiting for you and your family at Hestercombe this Christmas. From November 24th, ILLUMINATE will be lighting up the gardens in a way never seen before, with 3D lattice stars, floodlights, spotlights, festoons and colour. This stunning attraction is three times as big as last year, so prepare to be awe-inspired at the beautiful gardens as they come to life this season. ILLUMINATE will transport you on a magical journey of colour and light to bring an extra level of wonder to the trails. The natural features and views of the Landscape Garden come to life at night, with the spotlights and coloured paths drawing you up towards the Great Cascade and beyond, towards Sibyl’s Temple and back down past the Pear Pond and into the Formal Garden. Other attractions at Hestercombe over the Christmas season include:
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ILLUMINATE operates on a booking system, and runs from November 24th - December 30th, on Thursdays to Sundays until the school holidays, and then every day from December 15th - December 30th excluding Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Book your slot through the Hestercombe website at www.hestercombe.com For press enquiries, please contact press@hestercombe.com | ||
Highlights for 2022:
ILLUMINATE - Hestercombe’s biggest-ever light display will see its famous gardens illuminated by a charming light spectacle, leading visitors along a beautiful trail full of colour and joy.
A series of warming Yuletide events, from its established Christmas Market, working with independent artisans and producers, to wreath-making workshops, and music from Mawgan Stott
Magical family events, including the return of Hestercombe’s beloved Father Christmas, who will be welcoming children into his enchanting grotto, as well as festive garden trails taking place across Hestercombe’s historic landscapes.
Hestercombe’s famous Christmas Market will kick off the festivities from 18 - 20 November. Local, independent, artisanal craft makers and producers will be back at Hestercombe with quality, unique gifts, delicious treats and beautiful hand-crafted items.
Launching this November in time for the holiday season, ILLUMINATE will light up the the site from 24 November - 30 December.
To complement our exciting star-studded lights show, why not grab a hot drink and a mince pie from or enjoy a Christmas wreath-making course led by an artisanal flower grower to get you in the festive mood.
Hestercombe is giving the gift of Father Christmas to families this year, who will bring a sprinkle of magic to the festivities by welcoming children into his grotto at the Octagon Summerhouse, where a log fire will be slowly crackling away, surrounded by fairy lights, gifts, holly and friendly cheer.
Matt Philpott, Head of Marketing and Communications at Hestercombe says:
“This year's ILLUMINATE promises to be an absolute cracker, with much more of the gardens lit up with festoon lighting, stars, and spotlights to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.
“Why not treat friends and family to a Membership for Hestercombe this year? Whether single, joint or family, this is the perfect gift. An annual membership costs as little as £44.50 and will mean that you can share a year of discovery, visiting the beautiful gardens at Hestercombe together at Christmas and throughout the year. Membership gift packs come with the option to include a special message, and can be posted directly to the recipient.
“Every visit and membership helps Hestercombe protect its future for many Christmases to come”.
Make it a Christmas to remember with these festive events:
AT A GLANCE
Crafts
Christmas Market | 18 - 20 November
Family
ILLUMINATE Christmas Illuminations | selected dates, 24 November - 30 December
Festive Family Garden Trails | daily, 24 November - 30 December
Father Christmas | various dates in December
For more information on dates, times and ticket prices for each event, please visit hestercombe.com/christmas
ENDS
FURTHER INFORMATION
To contact the Press Office or for further information about the exclusive press preview taking place on 24 November, please email press@hestercombe.com
Open daily, 11am – 5pm
Hestercombe Gardens
Cheddon Fitzpaine
Taunton
Somerset
TA2 8LG
Notes to editors
Hestercombe Gardens
The Hestercombe Gardens Trust is an independent charitable trust, famous for its unique collection of gardens which span three centuries of garden history and design. The Formal Garden is hailed as one of the finest examples of the world renowned partnership between garden designer Gertrude Jekyll and architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. Hestercombe House and Gardens has undergone acclaimed restoration works and continues to develop and grow giving visitors a stunning setting to explore, learn and relax.
hestercombe.com
