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From the winter’s darkest nights emerges one of the year’s highlights with luminescent light trails and experiences switching on across Hampshire this Christmas and New Year.
Illuminate your imagination with neon trains, glowing gardens, and twinkling woodland – these winter light trails in Hampshire are sure to bring beaming smiles all around, just add hot chocolate and woolly hats.
Glow Marwell Savannah Animals by Pangea Sculptures. Photo by Kat Gollock
Fire & Ice at Marwell Zoo, Winchester
Selected dates 20 November - 31 December 2026
New for 2026 - Marwell will be hosting its very own Fire & Ice show on selected dates.
This immersive after-dark experience features fire performers, interactive play, marshmallow toasting, a fire dragon, an illuminated ice maze and much more.
There’s a chance to meet Father Christmas in his festive grotto in Marwell Hall.
Find out more about Christmas at Marwell Zoo
Steam Illuminations at the Watercress Line, Alresford
Selected dates from 27 November 2026 – 2 January 2027
Neon nostalgic steam trains? See the locomotives of the Watercress Line as you’ve never seen them before at the Steam Illuminations when the traditional trains get a modern makeover and are adorned with LED lights inside and out.
New for 2026 will be Disco Ball Alley making its dazzling debut.
Find out more about Steam Illuminations at the Watercress Line
Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens at Christmas, Romsey
Selected dates from 26 November 2026 – 1 January 2027
A new and reimagined rendition of Light Up at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens will add some seasonal sparkle to the beautiful gardens near Romsey for 2026.
The Seasons Of Light art installation will lead visitors around the gardens on an enchanting trail, connecting the art directly to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens by choreographing an immersive journey of wonder through the seasons of the year.
Find out more about Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens at Christmas
Museum by Moonlight: Penguin Trail, Gilbert White's House
3 - 23 December 2026
See the grounds of Gilbert White’s House & Gardens in Selborne in a different light this winter on the Museum by Moonlight Penguin Trail. Follow the outdoor trail after dark, searching for penguins along the way while the gardens are illuminated with colourful eco-friendly lighting. It’s a fun, family-friendly way to explore the grounds on a winter evening, before heading inside to discover more of the museum.
Winter Woodland Lights at Hawk Conservancy Trust, Andover
Selected dates from January - February 2027 (dates TBC)
Continuing the bright cheer into the New Year, the Winter Woodland Lights at the Hawk Conservancy should be the first date in your 2027 diary.
After exploring the beautiful woodland light trail, visitors will be treated to a breathtaking evening owl flying display set against the glorious glowing trees.
Find out the Hawk Conservancy Trust
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Once Upon a Time Illuminated Trail at West Green House Garden, Hook
28 November – 30 December 2026
Step into a fairytale at West Green House near Hartley Wintney this Christmas. The kilometre-long Once Upon a Time Illuminated Trail winds through the gardens and around the lakes, bringing much-loved stories to life with magical creatures, fairy folk and sparkling displays. Look out for characters and scenes inspired by The Frog Prince, Jack and the Beanstalk, The Little Mermaid, Hansel and Gretel and more, including a magical castle of lights. Festive food and warming drinks will also be available along the route.
Find out more about the Christmas Illuminated Garden Adventure at West Green House Garden
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Enlightened Winter Light Trail at Staunton Farm, Havant
3 December 2026 – 2 January 2027
Returning to Staunton Farm in Havant from 3 December, Enlightened is a magical outdoor light trail with illuminated installations and interactive elements for the whole family to enjoy.
Expect twinkling tunnels, enchanted woodlands, and immersive lights, all accompanied by ambient music.
Find out more about Enlightened at Staunton Farm
Enchanted Nights at Wylds Farm
16 - 18 and 21 - 23 December 2026
Step into a winter wonderland at Wylds Farm's magical Enchanted Nights in Liss this December.
This family festive experience includes a fun tractor ride on the ‘Elf Express’ and a twinkling lights walking tour. Warm up afterwards with hot drinks and mulled wine from the Après Tree Bar and look out for Mrs Clause and the post-box where you can send your letter to Father Christmas.
Find out more about Enchanted Nights at Wylds Farm
See our full guide to what’s on this Christmas in Hampshire
See our guide to winter in Hampshire
Planning a Christmas break? Take a browse our huge range of accommodation. Hampshire has something for all budgets including hotels, bed and breakfasts, self-catering properties, and cosy traditional holiday cottages.
Related
Steam Illuminations returns to The Watercress Line (November to January). Experience an incredible light show on and in a steam train, consisting of thousands of coloured lights and LED wristbands, creating a kaleidoscope of different colours and flashing patterns, includes 'Canopy of Lights' a sound to light show inside every carriage.
Discover a whole new festive adventure at Marwell Zoo this Christmas, with three magical experiences in one place. Why not combine all three for the ultimate Christmas experience?!
Award winning producers, Light Up Trails return with a host of NEW glittering installations and amazing food and drink, completing a sensational, sensory feast. Immerse yourself in a truly unforgettable, magical light trail experience like no other, for the whole family!
Our magical Winter Woodland Lights event is back! Unlike any light show, or owl flying display, that you will have ever seen before, you'll experience beautiful illuminations and a live owl display set in a stunning, colourful woodland.
