Yuletide at Tatton Park: A Magical Christmas Light Trail Adventure

Yuletide at Tatton Park: A Magical Christmas Light Trail Adventure

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We have just experienced our first Christmas light trail of 2024 and it was our first visit to Yuletide at Tatton Park. We absolutely love a Christmas light trail. it’s become a tradition for our family to visit at least one or two every year however this year we have three already booked. We will also squeeze a visit to view the iconic Blackpool Illuminations, a place I’ve visited since I was little. Over the years, light trails have grown in popularity, becoming a magical way to kick off the festive season, and now Christmas light trails are one of our must-do family activities each December. 

Here's everything you need to know about visiting Yuletide and make sure you check out

our thoughts below for our honest opinion of the event. 

Step into an incredible glittering adventure at Tatton Park Gardens this season. Fall into a world of folklore, festive tradition and rituals as the characters and creatures from winter myths and stories come to life!

Enjoy live music and fire juggling, storytelling and performance at a winter experience like no other! Roast marshmallows around the fire and warm up with a hot chocolate as you are enchanted by a traditional storyteller weaving tall tales to delight and enthral the whole family.

When Can You Visit?

Yuletide - A Glittering Winter Adventure runs on weekends from 16th November to 23rd December 2024, with time slots starting from 3pm to 7:15pm. Be sure to book in advance as slots fill up quickly!

Ticket Prices

Adults - £20

Children - £12 

Under 2's - Free

Book Tickets Online

How Long Does The Trail Last?

The trail is roughly 1km long, but how long you spend exploring depends on you. We like to take our time, stopping to admire every twinkling light. There is also entertainment including storytelling, music and fire dancers. You can even toast marshmallows if you want to add an extra cosy touch to your night!

Food, Drink and Rides

There are some food and drink options available at the start and end of the trail (the same place) so you can enjoy hot chocolates, cookie pies, pizza and other festive treats. A Carousel is are also available, adding an extra layer of fun for the little ones. Just note that additional charges apply for food, drinks, and rides.

Parking Information

Parking is available onsite and is included when purchasing your tickets. 

What Should I Wear?

Since the event is entirely outdoors, be sure to dress for the weather! Wear warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes, as some parts of the trail can get muddy.

Our Thoughts

This was our first ever visit to Tatton Park during Christmas. As we visited mid November I was a little nervous that it wouldn't feel as magical as it would visiting closer to Christmas. I was wrong. Once we reached the main courtyard it felt like Christmas! The carousel was lit up and the music was playing and we couldn't wait to start our Yuletide adventure. Yuletide is in the gardens of Tatton Park which are spacious and magical during the day so we couldn't wait to step inside at night and see how they are transformed. 

There are 5 main parts to Yuletide and you can experience them all if you get your timing right. 

Fire Dancers / Juggling

We started with the fire dancers as the show was just about to begin when we entered. It was just what we expected, men with fire, dancing and juggling. Unfortunately one performer was better than the other who kept dropping his fire and actually made me want to move the kids away from the rope as it came a little too close at times. The boys enjoyed it though and we stayed and watched for 10-15 minutes. I think it was a 30 minute show but very repetitive as I guess theres only so much you can do with an open flame!

Glittering Trail

The Glittering Trail was not what we expected at all. It was different. We were expecting a Christmas light trail similar to what we have visited before however The Glittering Trail took us on a journey through the world of folklore and their festive traditions. There was so much interaction with the characters and the lights themselves as they brought us in to their world. As for Christmas twinkling lights, we didn't see much of that however I think that's what I enjoyed. It was unique, fun and the boys loved it! The highlight was Rainbow road at the end.

There were short gaps in the trail where there were no lights or characters and it got quite dark in places however there was always a member of staff to help you stay on the right path. 

Toasting Marshmallows

This has become a 'must do' when we visit a light trail of Christmas experience. I'm not sure any of us actually like the marshmallow but it's just the fun of toasting it in the open flame. The smell is amazing. Marshmallows are chargeable, however we saw a family who had brought their own and the member of staff happily let them toast their marshmallows in the fire pit.

Live Music

Unfortunately we didn't get to see any live music as it had finished by the time we got to the tent so make sure you check times if this is something you want to experience. 

Storytelling

I think this was my favourite part. Inside a tent filled with layer seating a man told folklore stories and had the whole audience engrossed. His story about the sun, moon and cockerel brought a tear to my eye. His storytelling lasted about 30 minutes and is not to be missed. 

Overall we really enjoyed our visit to Yuletide and I'm glad we chose to visit this year. 

For families, couples, or groups of friends, a Christmas light trail is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season. If you haven’t experienced one yet, make sure to add it to your 2024 Christmas bucket list!

Book Tickets Online

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16 Light Trails In The North West To Enjoy Christmas 2024

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Michelle

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Scarecrow Pop Star Festival At Tatton Park

Scarecrow Pop Star Festival At Tatton Park

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This half term we headed to Tatton Park to take part in their Scarecrow Festival trail. We have done many Tatton Park Trails over the years and they are always so much fun and we get to see the Tatton Park estate which is so beautiful. The Scarecrow Festival this year offers visitors the chance roam the gardens in search of 21 Pop Star scarecrows.

Scarecrow Pop Star Festival, Tatton Park, WA16 6QN (Sat Nav WA16 6SG)

The Scarecrow Pop Star Festival runs from 10th February till 25th February 2024 and will be the perfect day out this half term with the kids. You will find all the scarecrows inside Tatton Park gardens. There is no map however all scarecrows were easy to find and it was lots of fun guessing who they are. 

This was our first time visiting the Scarecrow Festival however it seems to be an annual event and we are already looking forward to the next one. 

As the Scarecrow Festival is located in the gardens, normal garden and farm opening times and entry prices apply

It is open 10th Feb - 25th Feb however it is closed on Monday 12 February and Monday 19 February.

As well as taking part in the Scarecrow Festival, you can also just enjoy a stroll around the huge gardens. There are 50 acres of gardens to explore offering breathtaking views.

The Japanese garden can only be viewed from the perimeter unless you join one of the special guided tours which take place every Wednesday and Saturday from 23rd March 2024

As well as the gardens you can also have lots of fun on the farm, visit the Mansion or enjoy a bite to eat at the Stables Restaurant. 

For more information on Tatton Park including what's on, opening times and entry costs check out their website.

I don't want to give away any spoilers to who's who however we found some easier than others to guess and you can check the list at the entrance to the gardens. If you are not planning to visit and would like to have a guess at all 21 Scarecrows then you can check out our photos on Instagram.

READ THESE NEXT

DUNHAM MASSEY, ALTRINCHAM GREATER MANCHESTER

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QUARRY BANK MILL, WILMSLOW CHESHIRE

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Michelle

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Tatton Park Farm

Tatton Park Farm

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Another planned visit for us this month to Tatton Park but it was the first time that we’ve been able to visit the farm. The farm reopened on the 17th of May and is another reason why we love Tatton Park. The farm which is setback away from the main courtyard and gardens has its own pathway leading to the farm entrance. You can reach the farm by walking, taking the land train or by car if you wish to park in the disabled bays. The land train is chargeable each way and stops at the farm and children's playground, every 20 minutes. 

Booking is preferred when visiting as it allows the farm to control the amount of visitors per day however we did see a family allowed entry as numbers were low at the time of our visit.  Entrance to the farm is via the shop and once inside you’ll be greeted by donkeys and an introduction video showing what to expect on your visit. 

Once on the farm you can explore the area including a visit to the horses, goats and chickens. The horses will be the first to greet you on your visit to the farm including 21-year-old Blossom.

As always the goats provide lots of entertainment. They love to come up close for a stroke and it is fun watching them play on their climbing frame. You will spot some cheeky ones poking their heads through the fences and jumping up too. You will also find some cows and pigs on the farm too.

Once you’ve made your way past the animals you can head towards the playground area. It's a woodland playground that has lots of different climbing obstacles for the children to complete. It's set out like a trail from start to finish and has balance beams and rope climbing areas to complete.

Cost onto the farm for all visitors including National Trust members is a  £8 for adults and £6 per child. Concessions and family tickets are also available at a discounted rate.

There are lots of picnic benches around for you to enjoy a picnic and there are snacks available in the gift shop. There are two sets of toilets one by the main entrance and one just before you head to the children’s playground.

Most of the ground is cobbled stones and I did see a few people struggling to push a pram around however when we left I noticed some people had left their prams near the shop. 

Estimated time on the farm does depend on how long you spend in each area but I would think no more than an hour and a half.

We recently visited Tatton Park to complete the Percy the Park Keeper Trail in the gardens which finishes on June 13th. We will be heading back to the farm soon when the new Percy the Park Keeper Treasure Trail lands on 20th of June 2021.

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The Secret Path In The Gardens Trail | Tatton Park

The Secret Path In The Gardens Trail | Tatton Park

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After visiting Tatton Park last Christmas time to join in with their Holly's Festive Feast trail we have been on the lookout for something similar. We found the new trail, Percy The Park Keeper - The Secret Path In The Gardens Trail, which started on 2nd April. 

What To Expect At Percy The Park Keeper - The Secret Path In The Gardens Trail. Tatton Park, WA16 6QN (Sat Nav WA16 6SG)

Percy The Park Keeper and all his animal friends have headed to Tatton Park this Spring for an adventure. 

The idea behind the trail is Percy is working in Tatton Gardens. You must follow the trail along secret paths and sloping hills to help Percy find all the items that have gone missing which he needs to have a big Spring clean-up

The trail begins in the garden entrance. You can pick up your trail map and pencil upon arrival and head out in the gardens to start your journey along the secret path. 

Once you are on your way you can follow the squirrel signposts which will tell you which direction to go in next. 

There are 7 clues in total hidden around the gardens and you can solve each one and write them down on your trail sheet. Each answer is a missing item that Percy needs to finish his Spring clean up. 

The gardens are so big and you can of course head off and explore the gardens along the way or after you gave finished the trails. There is lots to explore and you can use your map to help you get back on track. 

If you complete all the clues in order when you complete clue number 6 you may spot someone in the distance. It's Percy! Percy is at his potting shed ready to say hello to all his visitors. 

When we arrived at the potting shed, Percy introduced himself and had a lovely chat with little J about what football team he supports. He then gave us a a little pot which contained a french bean. He told us all about the bean and the steps we need to follow to help it grow. As it was Easter weekend Little J was also given a Lindt chocolate bunny which was a lovely surprise. We took a quick photo with Percy and then we were on our way to find the last clue. 

Once you complete the trail there is another photo opportunity with Percy and his animal friends.

On your way out you can collect your Percy The Park Keeper trail sticker to keep. 

Anything Else?

Percy The Park Keeper - The Secret Path In The Gardens Trail is available every day until 13th June 2021.

Times:

10am - 6pm (last entry 5pm) 

Price: 

Garden entry: £8 adult, £6 child, National Trust members go free (but must still book a timed ticket to visit). 

£1 per child for Percy the Park Keeper’s garden trail sheets (including NT members).

There are no toilets inside the garden area so make sure you head to the toilets before you enter which are just outside the gardens entrance. 

There are plenty of grass areas suitable for a picnic both in and outside the gardens plus there are picnic benches and tables scattered around the estate too. 

The Stable Restaurant is open daily 10am-5pm and offers a limited takeaway menu. 

Parkland is open daily 10am – 7pm (last entry 6pm). The Farm and Mansion are currently closed. 

All vehicles will be charged £8 parking fee, this is half price for blue badge holders, cyclists and pedestrians are free to enter.

The gardens have plenty of space to ensure social distancing and the trail is a lovely family day out to enjoy with the little ones.

Michelle

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Holly's Festive Feast Christmas Trail, Tatton Park

Holly's Festive Feast Christmas Trail, Tatton Park

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We have begun our Christmas Festivities with a trip to Tatton Park to enjoy the Christmas Garden Trail, Holly's Festive Feast. 

What To Expect At A Christmas Trail: Holly's Festive Feast, Tatton Park, WA16 6QN (Sat Nav WA16 6SG)

Holly the Hare needs your help, she’s been invited to a festive garden feast with Tatton Park’s other woodland friends, but she’s mislaid her invitation! Journey through the Gardens and help solve the puzzles to find her friends at their Christmas party.

The trail begins at The Gardens entrance where you can pick up your party pack. Inside you will find an animal mask, candy cane, pencils, pencil, sticker, tag for the wish tree and a question sheet and map. 

Next you need to follow the arrows to find the clues to help Holly The Hare get to the party in time. 

There are 6 clues in total which take you all around the gardens. You can also head off on different paths to explore if you wish but make sure you get back on track as you don't want to miss the party.

Each clue is easy to solve although younger ones may need a little help from a grown up. Just below each clue is a beautiful stature of Holly The Hare. 

Once you have worked out the clues, pop your answer on the sheet and then head off to find the next clue. 

When you find clue number 6 you then have to find Holly's invitation which will then tell you where the party is. 

Once you have found the party venue join the queue and wait your turn to head inside and see the animals enjoying their party. 

Although Holly The Hare made it to her party in time there is still more to do. Next head to the wish tree to put on your own wish.

Last but not least follow your nose to find Pat the jolly Gardener whose job it is to care for the gardens and wildlife. Pat’s keeping warm by the fire roasting chestnuts.You can even enjoy a chestnut or roast your own marshmallow before heading to the exit as your trail comes to an end.

Anything Else?

Holly's Festive Feast Christmas Trail is available on selected dates

Sat 28th - Sun 29th November

Tues 1st  - Sun 6th December

Tues 8th - Sun 13th December

Tues 15th - Thurs 24th December (including 21 Monday Dec)

Sat 26th December - Sun 3rd January (including 28 Monday Dec)

The trail opens at 10am - 4pm (with the last entry being 3pm). The trail took us well over 2 hours as we explored around the gardens and woodlands so entering at 3pm may cut your time short as it closes at 4pm.

Entry to the mid-winter gardens this festive season is £8 an adult, £6 a child and free for National Trust members.

To experience the full trail experience you may want to the purchase the party pack mentioned above. This costs an extra £2.

There are no toilets inside the garden area so make sure you head to the toilets before you enter which are just outside the gardens entrance. 

Refreshments are available for take away only at Stable Restaurant plus there are snacks, ice creams and drinks available in the gift shop. 

There are lots of picnic benches and tables available to enjoy a picnic for takeaway at with some being under a marquee. 

Head to the Stables Restaurant for festive food and drink and browse pop up Christmas stalls in the stableyard - a mini market of local traders selling homeware, Christmas gifts and more.  This is available to enjoy 11am-4pm

Fri 4, Sat 5 and Sun 6 December

Fri  11, Sat 12 and Sun 13 December 

The cosy Gardener's Cottage this Christmas is inviting you to experience the delights of a Festive Afternoon Tea – and great news for little ones -  they can feel special too with their own limited edition mini festive tea with choice of sandwiches, crisps, hot chocolate or juice and a Christmas tree cookie. Available to enjoy Tuesday - Sunday from 2 Dec until 3 Jan 2021 

Parkland is closed Mondays and open Tuesdays - Sundays 10am – 5pm (last entry 4pm)

Farm and Mansion are currently closed. 

All vehicles will be charged £7 parking fee, this is half price for blue badge holders, cyclists and pedestrians are free to enter.

Please ensure you follow social distancing rules & Government guidelines and if somewhere is busy on arrival, please consider leaving and returning at a later date. 

Face coverings are required in the cafe, gift shop and also the toilets for those aged 11+ (usual exemptions apply)  

Check for local lockdowns / travel restrictions before visiting anywhere. 

Always check with the venue direct as things may have changed after this post was published. 

What Is Close By?

Dunham Massey, WA14 4SJ - 15 Minute Drive

Dunham Massey is a green oasis nestled between the urban sprawl of Manchester and rural tranquillity of Cheshire.

Arley Hall and Gardens, CW9 6NA - 15 Minute Drive

Arley Hall & Gardens is a place of enormous character, charm and interest. Visitors are frequently struck by the warm and intimate atmosphere and the feeling that Arley is a much-cherished family home.

Further Away.

Dream, WA9 4BB - 30 Minute Drive

Dream is a huge sculpture of a child's face situated in the middle of Sutton Manor. You may have read our post recently about our visit to Dream. It's just a 30 Minute Drive from Tatton Park and nice easy walk to enjoy.

Speke Hall Estate and Gardens, L24 1XD - 40 Minute Drive

Speke Hall Gardens and Estate is a National Trust property just outside Liverpool with lots of walking trails, adventure playground and beautiful views of the River Mersey.

Holly's Festive Feast Christmas Trail at Tatton Park will definitely put you in a festive mood and ready for the big day. 

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Michelle

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