Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park are transformed into a magical winter wonderland during the Christmas season. Visitors can experience the stunning illumination of Windsor Great Park, as well as the enchanting Christmas decorations adorning the historic Windsor Castle.
Windsor Great Park Illuminated
The Windsor Great Park is a vast and beautiful expanse of land that surrounds Windsor Castle. During the Christmas season, this picturesque landscape is transformed into a dazzling light trail, offering visitors a truly enchanting experience.
Dates and Ticket Information
The Windsor Great Park Illuminated event runs from Friday, 15 November 2024, to Saturday, 4 January 2025, every day except Christmas Day. Tickets are sold in 15-minute slots, with the last entry at 8:30 pm and the light trail closing at 10:30 pm sharp.
The ticket prices vary based on the time of visit:
| Ticket Type | Super Off Peak | Off Peak | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | £19.80 | £22.55 | £29.15 |
| Child (3-15) | £12.10 | £14.85 | £18.70 |
| Family (2 Adults, 2 Children) | £56.10 | £67.10 | £85.25 |
Parking is limited and must be purchased in advance along with the entry ticket. Friends of The Savill Garden and Members of Windsor Great Park receive one free car parking pass.
Windsor Castle Christmas Decorations
In addition to the stunning light trail in Windsor Great Park, the historic Windsor Castle also undergoes a magical transformation during the Christmas season.
Dates and Highlights
The Windsor Castle Christmas decorations are on display from Thursday, 30 November 2023, to Monday, 1 January 2024. Some of the highlights include:
- 25-foot-high Nordmann Fir Tree: Located in St George’s Hall, it is decorated with 33,500 sparkling lights and topped with a specially commissioned Garter Star to commemorate the 675th anniversary of the Order of the Garter.
- Crimson Drawing Room Tree: Decorated with smaller Garter Stars.
- Waterloo Chamber: The 160-foot-long dining table is laid with porcelain from the Garter Service.
- Grand Staircase: Impressive garlands greet visitors.
- Castle Grounds: Festive wreaths and foliage adorn gates and lampposts.
Additional Events and Activities
In addition to the stunning light displays and Christmas decorations, there are several other events and activities available for visitors to enjoy during the festive season.
Festive Events for Children
The Learning Centre at Windsor Castle hosts a variety of craft activities and workshops exploring Victorian Christmas traditions on select dates in December. These events provide a fun and educational experience for children.
Carols and Services
Local school and community choirs perform carols beneath the Christmas tree in St George’s Hall on select dates. Additionally, St George’s Chapel is open to visitors and hosts services throughout the festive period.
Light Projections
From Saturday, 21 November, light projections featuring stained glass images from St George’s Chapel and architectural motifs are displayed onto the Castle wall facing Thames Street, adding to the magical atmosphere.
The Windsor Castle Xmas Lights and Christmas decorations create a truly enchanting experience, making Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
Reference:
– Windsor Castle Christmas Decorations
– Windsor Great Park Illuminated