The National Trust’s Blickling Estate is preparing to wow visitors once again for its biggest annual fundraiser, this year with a wilder twist. The Wild Winter After Dark trail takes place from Saturday 2 to Sunday 17 December.
Visitors will be transported into a winter wonderland, beginning with a wander through magically lit tunnels of light in the Walled Garden, before heading around the Parterre Garden and through tree-lined avenues illuminated with colour and light.
Listening out for the sounds of nature at night, looking out for wildlife tracks and footprints and taking in the natural scent of trees in the Arboretum, the Wild Winter After Dark trail will provide a multi-sensory experience for all ages.
After visiting the festive Farmyard, head up Temple Walk for some warming mulled wine, spiced apple juice, mince pies and gingerbread, or enjoy something more substantial from the hand-picked street food vendors in the Farmyard where there will be delicious burritos, waffles and marshmallows toasted on an open fire. The shop will be open for those last-minute stocking fillers and perfect presents for loved ones.
For Experience and Visitor Programme Manager, Sebastian Billing, it’s his favourite time of year. “I’ve known Blickling all my life and for my family, it’s always been a playground for the senses. The Wild Winter After Dark event transforms the outside spaces – once the sun goes down, it feels like every inch is painted with imagination. Seeing visitors of all ages laughing and making memories in a place that means so much to the local community, shows us that the essential fundraising we do as a charity can look and feel pretty magical.”
Wild Winter After Dark at Blickling provides a special way to celebrate the festive season with an unmissable new experience. The trail is designed for visitors of all ages and features a one-mile accessible route for everyone to enjoy.
Book now to secure your choice of date and time at: nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/norfolk/blickling-estate/christmas-blickling-estate
When: Saturday 2 – Sunday 17 December, 5pm–8pm
Why visit: Take in the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of this magical season set within the beautiful gardens of Blickling Estate.
Admission: Adult £16.00, Child* £10.00, Family (1 adult, up to 3 children) £32.00, Family (2 adults, up to 3 children) £44.00.
*Children under five go free and but do still require a pre-booked ticket. Parking included within ticket prices.
Website: nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/norfolk/blickling-estate/christmas-blickling-estate
