A dazzling new light trail at Hampton Court Palace inspired by King Henry VIII’s royal beasts and a twinkling after-dark illuminated trail through the grounds of Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are just two of the magical Christmas attractions at the UK’s historic royal palaces this year.

Hillsborough Castle Light Trail © My Christmas Trails Sony Music 2022

Palace of Light at Hampton Court

Palace of Light, the latest after-hours light trail at Hampton Court Palace in London, which takes place from 7 December to 2 January, features a majestic menagerie of mythical creatures.

As dusk draws in at this famous royal retreat, visitors are invited to step into a fantastical world of glittering unicorns, lordly lions and galloping greyhounds, all set within the palace’s magnificent gardens and courtyards. Inspired by Henry VIII’s heraldic beasts, commissioned to decorate his imposing palace as a show of power and might, these magnificent illuminations promise to delight visitors of all ages.

Returning to Hampton Court Palace following its launch in 2021, this year’s light trail is bigger and better than ever, with more elaborate installations and dramatic displays, including a sea monster lurking in the canals of the Great Fountain Garden and polka-dot panther lanterns in the Wilderness.

Palace of Light at Hampton Court © Historic Royal Palaces

Visitors are invited to enter a dragon’s mouth and walk through the twinkling belly of the beast or pose for a photo with beautifully illuminated Griffin wings. The historic cobbled courtyards and gardens will come to life with more magical beasts and mesmerising projections, designed and created by award-winning outdoor event producers.

An array of seasonal food and drink will be on offer along the route to provide a warming treat and, outside the palace’s West Front, the hugely popular Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink once again provides the perfect festive setting for a brisk skating session.

In addition, with over 500 years of history to explore, visitors to the palace can stroll through the lavish Tudor apartments where Queen Elizabeth I once hosted yuletide banquets and stand on the very spot William Shakespeare performed for King James I during the Christmas festivities of 1603. Experience the other side of life at the palace in the historic Tudor kitchen with its roaring log fire, where dozens of servants once produced an astonishing 800 meals a day for Henry VIII’s festive feasts.

Festive Trail at Hillsborough Castle

Following a hugely successful first year, the magic is back at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens close to Belfast in Northern Ireland. Over a million twinkling lights and seasonal sounds will fill the air with festive fun throughout December.

Hillsborough Castle Light Trail © My Christmas Trails Sony Music 2022

Visitors will discover sparkling tunnels of light, as they walk under giant baubles and beneath glistening trees drenched in jewel-like colour. They can pause for a moment of reflection at mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, gaze at the larger-than-life illuminations and catch a glimpse of Father Christmas along the way. A panoply of festive food vendors will help to bring a delicious twist to the starlit celebrations.

Hillsborough Castle and Hampton Court Palace are looked after by Historic Royal Palaces, a team of people who care for six of the UK’s most wonderful royal palaces, which also includes the Tower of London, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace and Banqueting House. It is a registered charity and all the palaces in its care, except Hillsborough Castle, are owned by The King ‘in Right of Crown’. All of the palaces ceased being used regularly for royal court purposes in the 18th century.

Janet Redler, Managing Director of Janet Redler Travel, said: “These fabulous Christmas experiences are sure to be the icing on the cake for many winter visitors to the UK. Fabulous seasonal activities take place all across the country in the run up to the festive period – a truly magical time to enjoy a tour!”

If you or your group would like to enjoy a tailor-made tour of the UK or Ireland in winter, please do contact our friendly team today.