We visited Helmingham Hall Illuminated Garden Trail, near Stowmarket, and this is what we thought

A stunning Suffolk festive season attraction, which is set to welcome thousands of visitors over the next few weeks, has opened its gates for 2024.

Helmingham Hall’s Illuminated Garden Trail, near Stowmarket, has become a festive favourite for many families, with this year’s event promising new displays, so I was keen to visit with my husband David and eight-year-old daughter Clara.

The trail sees the stunning hall and grounds transformed into a magical world of colour, light and sound, with the bonus of mulled wine (included in the entrance price), s’mores, a vintage carousel and the chance to shop for gifts at the end.

Having visited the Helmingham illuminations previously, in 2021 and 2022, we were keen to see what had changed.

Firstly, if you have never been before, prepare yourself to become immersed in an enchanting winter wonderland.

The route cleverly starts with warm flickering lights on the ground, mimcking the hues of autumn, before leading you on to a trail of forest creatures and insects, illuminated in warm white lights.

Next, the path turns you past the illuminated hall itself, swirling thanks to purple projections, with reflections shimmering along its moat.

The notes of The Nutcracker Suite – classical music which is so associated with Christmas and which inspired my own daughter’s name – soon filtered into my ears and I looked left to see trees in the distance changing colour in time to the music.

Next, we walked over the hall’s drawbridge and into the courtyard for a welcome pit-stop to see a large Christmas tree, pick up our complimentary mulled wine and buy three bags of freshly caramlised nuts.

After our little break we set off at a gentle walking pace once again, stopping for a photo opportunity at an illuminated wreath before marvelling at glowing orbs slowly rotating through a spectrum of colours on the damp grass.

We turned a corner to find a mysterious purple-hued doorway, with dry ice puffing out behind it. It felt a little like walking through the wardrobe and into Narnia, only the world we encountered can only be described as a disco wonderland: complete with hanging lanterns, ‘disco mushrooms’ (how many will you spot?) and colourful parrots, accompanied by a funky mix of music including Mas Que Nada and Club Tropicana.

After leaving ‘Disco Narnia’ we headed into more traditional illuminations territory, with light tunnels and avenues to enjoy.

After our second pit stop, this time for two lattes (for the grown-ups) and to toast s’mores (for Clara) over open fire pits – don’t forget to take wipes to clean up any mess – we found ourselves heading to the trail’s end.

There we found toilet facilities, the Stables Shops complex, some gift stalls and a vintage carousel, which Clara enjoyed a turn on.

Alongside our delight at discovering a new route and new lights this year, my heart was warmed to see so many multi-generational groups enjoying the trail. There were numerous parties clearly including senior family members, right down to newborn babies in prams.

The route can be – and is – enjoyed by all ages, although I would make sure to wear shoes with some grip as it was raining during our visit and some areas were a little slippy.

As an atmospheric way to soak up the season and spend quality time with loved ones, I’m not sure Helmingham’s trail can be bettered… Although the opportunity to buy a vat of whatever mulled wine they serve there to take home would be a welcome addition!

Before you go:

• Tickets must be purchased in advance. There’s no need to print a copy as you can show your ticket on a smartphone, however download it before arrival as phone signal is patchy.
• Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome
• The trail is wheelchair accessible – where there are steps alternative step-free routes are available
• Wear warm clothes and study footwear, as the paths can be uneven and slippery (particularly when wet)
• You might want to take a torch, as some areas are darker than others
• Hot street food and drinks are available on the trail itself, as well as s’mores kits
• Parking is free