As the evenings draw in and autumn gives way to winter, Yorkshire comes alive with spectacular illuminations, magical light trails and enchanting after-dark experiences.
From beautifully lit gardens and historic estates to immersive woodland trails, there are plenty of opportunities to wrap up warm, head out for an evening adventure and see some of Yorkshire’s most beautiful places in a whole new light.
We’ve rounded up some of the illumination trails taking place across Yorkshire this season, perfect for a family day out, a festive evening with friends or a memorable winter date night.
Luminescence – Swinton Park Hotel, Masham
31 October 2026 – 21 February 2027
From £17 Adults & £7.50 Children
Step into a magical world of light at Swinton Park, where the enchanting woodland and lakeside landscape is transformed after dark.
Follow a mile-long illuminated trail featuring breathtaking light installations inspired by the beauty of the natural world. Each scene creates an immersive and atmospheric experience, bringing colour, light and imagination to the gardens.
Suitable for all ages, visitors can also stop along the trail to enjoy warming drinks and seasonal treats, while the hotel’s bars and restaurants provide the perfect place to enjoy a meal or drink before or after your visit.
Fountains by Floodlight – Fountains Abbey, Ripon
9 – 30 October 2026
From £12 Adult & £6 Children
Experience Fountains Abbey like never before as the historic ruins are transformed after dark.
Wander beneath shadowed archways and glowing ruins, take a torch and chase your shadows as you explore the abbey. Visitors can join volunteers on a guided twilight tour before heading to the Cellarium to enjoy live choral music as darkness falls.
There’s also a Street Food Market to enjoy, while striking projected animations bring the story of Fountains Abbey to life across the historic ruins.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring the family, wrap up warm and experience this remarkable Yorkshire landmark in a completely different way.
RHS Glow – RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Harrogate
26 November – 30 December 2026
From £9.50 Adults & £5 Children
Discover RHS Garden Harlow Carr after dark as much-loved garden areas are transformed by colourful illuminations.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, RHS Glow promises an enchanting journey filled with light, interactive moments and festive surprises. Constellations of colour will guide visitors through a magical evening adventure, with plenty to discover along the way.
Make an evening of it with delicious festive food and drinks, as well as the opportunity to browse for Christmas gifts and enjoy the garden centre.
The Enchanted Illuminations – Stockeld Park, Wetherby
21 November 2026 – 3 January 2027
From £21.5 A Person (Aged 2+)
Immerse yourself in festive magic at Stockeld Park, where the enchanted forest comes alive after dark with illuminated installations, projections, sculptures, animations and atmospheric soundscapes.
There’s plenty to make this a great family evening out, including three adventure playgrounds and cosy cabins where you can stop for a warming drink.
Don’t miss the illuminated Snowflake Maze, where you can navigate the yew tree walls and search for hidden objects along the way.
Northern Lights – Temple Newsam, Leeds
20 November – 31 December 2026
From £19.50 Adult & £13.50 Child
Temple Newsam will once again be transformed into a spectacular winter wonderland for Northern Lights Leeds, featuring a mile-long trail of lights through the historic estate.
For 2026, visitors can discover The Lost Light of Christmas, a brand-new theme inspired by folklore, where the secrets of the fairies begin to unfold. Expect enchanting light installations, festive magic and hidden surprises around every turn.
After exploring the trail, head to the Christmas Village for festive food and drinks and fairground fun. With more than 1.2 million people having experienced Northern Lights trails across the UK since 2021, this promises to be a magical addition to the festive calendar.
