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Blickling Estate's Christmas Spectacular
England
Magical illuminated gardens with playful light and sound displays.
About
Experience the enchantment of Christmas at Blickling Estate, where the historic house and gardens are transformed into a festive wonderland. Inside the Hall, discover beautifully decorated rooms with a charming 'mice' theme, perfect for a cosy, family-friendly atmosphere. As dusk falls, the gardens come alive with Blickling's Garden of Lights, a spectacular display of bold illuminations and sound that creates a magical, sparkling experience.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, and anyone seeking a magical festive experience
Vibe
Enchanting, festive, magical, cosy
Energy Level
Moderate (walking required, especially for the light trail)
Budget
Mid-Range (Daytime Is Free For Members, Evening Tickets Vary)
Photo Friendly
High (especially the garden of lights)
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (evening event is outdoors, but with covered food/drink areas)
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Daytime: Free for members, standard admission for non-members. Evening (Garden of Lights): Adult £16-£24, Child (5-17) £9-£13, family tickets available. Prices vary by day.
Duration
Daytime activities and evening light display
Ages
All ages welcome; children under five go free but require a ticket for the evening event.
Schedule
Daytime: House open 11am – 3pm (last entry 2:30pm), closed Dec 24-25. Garden, shops, cafés open 10am – 4pm (last orders 3:30pm). Evening (Garden of Lights): 5pm–8pm.
Organizer
National Trust
Practical Information
Parking
Parking is included in the ticket price in the main car park, with accessible bays and toilet facilities nearby. Entry to the illuminated gardens is 224m from the car park. Entry time slots are for car park arrival.
Accessibility
The house is open 11am – 3pm. Last entry to the house is 2:30pm. The garden, shops and cafés open at 10am and close at 4pm. Quiet hours are available every Tuesday and Saturday between 2pm – 3pm for a calmer atmosphere. The Garden of Lights has a fully accessible, step-free route of about 2 miles on various surfaces including gravel, accessible matting, and grass. Powered mobility vehicles are available to hire. Free carer entry is provided with a ticket. Disabled toilets are available, and a changing places facility is present.
Pet Policy
Assistance dogs only allowed in the House, garden, and East Wing shop/Stables Café during daytime events.
Food & Drink
Seasonal food and warming drinks available in cafés, with sweet treats and mulled drinks offered during the evening light display.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets for the Garden of Lights well in advance, especially for peak dates, as prices increase and availability is limited.
- Arrive within your designated car park entry time slot for the Garden of Lights to ensure smooth access.
- Dress warmly and wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on various surfaces, including gravel and grass, for the Garden of Lights.
- Consider visiting during the 'Quiet Hours' on Tuesdays or Saturdays if you prefer a less crowded and more serene experience in the House and gardens.
- Check the National Trust website for specific opening times for the House, gardens, shops, and cafés, as these may differ between daytime and evening events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the theme for the Christmas decorations inside Blickling Hall this year?
This year, the decorations inside Blickling Hall have a delightful 'mice' theme, with charming little characters busy decking the halls.
Are there any special provisions for visitors with accessibility needs during the Garden of Lights event?
Yes, the Garden of Lights features a fully accessible, step-free route. Powered mobility vehicles are available for hire, and free carer entry is provided.
Can I bring my dog to Blickling Estate during the Christmas events?
Only assistance dogs are permitted inside the House, the garden, and the East Wing shop and Stables Café during daytime events. Pet policies for the evening event may vary, so it's best to check the specific event details.
What kind of food and drink options are available?
Visitors can enjoy seasonal food and warming drinks in the cafés, with additional offerings like mulled drinks and sweet treats available during the evening Garden of Lights event.
Is there a way to experience the event with fewer crowds?
Yes, Blickling Estate offers 'Quiet Hours' on Tuesdays and Saturdays between 2pm and 3pm for a calmer atmosphere. Additionally, a special reduced capacity event is scheduled on Tuesday, December 9th.