As the nights draw in and the last leaves fall, many gardens are gearing up for spectacular evening illuminations
See gardens in a whole new way this autumn and winter, as coloured lights transform trees, cast dramatic reflections and create an atmosphere of adventure.
Here are three brilliant evenings for your diary, with free or discounted entry for RHS members.
Syon Park, Middlesex
Syon's popular Enchanted Woodland returns on 10–12, 17–19 and 24–26 November. Follow the magical illuminated trail through the Arboretum and around ‘Capability’ Brown’s serpentine river, ending at the 16th-century Syon House and the spectacular Great Conservatory.
The trees are the real stars of the show, as various effects bring out the textures and forms of some of the 400 different tree species.
Members £8, non-members £10
More about Enchanted Woodland
Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire
Get the festive season off to an early start with the Enchanted Menagerie themed displays (11 November–2 January). From dusk, enjoy the Waddesdon Imaginarium light and sound show projected onto the manor’s façade – objects have been scanned and animated to produce fluttering clouds of butterflies, roaming porcelain animals and dancing musical clocks.
Then set off to discover light art by artist Lauren Booth, illuminating the Rothschilds’ passion for natural history with neon goats, parrots and even a flea circus.
Members free, non-members £10 (grounds only, additional charge applies for house entry)
More about Christmas at Waddesdon
The National Botanic Garden of Wales, Carmarthenshire
From 8–17 December (4–7pm), the National Botanic Garden of Wales will transform into a 'Winter Wonderland' for the first time.
As dusk falls, visitors are promised an amazing light show, breathtaking owl displays, games and plenty of Yuletide treats to eat and drink. Enjoy a free mulled wine and mince pie while you relax with live music.
RHS and NBGW members free, non-members £6, children £3
More about Winter Wonderland
See how the RHS Gardens glow
Be enchanted by exciting illuminations at three RHS Gardens - Wisley in Surrey, Harlow Carr in Yorkshire and Rosemoor in Devon. Wrap up warm and keep the winter blues at bay as colourful lights and installations create dazzling effects around every corner.
More about RHS Glow events
