Christmas has landed at Heaton Park!
New for this year is an illuminated trail for all the family, aptly named Christmas at Heaton Park, and set within the grounds after winter sunset.
As we arrived for opening night on Friday (December 1), we were ushered into the Sheepfoot Lane car park by helpful marshals.
It obviously goes without saying but wrap up warm if you are going, this is an outside attraction with a short walk to the start of the trail – we all had at least three layers on.
The walk to the start of the trail was illuminated by bright star installations as Christmas tunes pumped out of the crystal clear speakers.
Christmas at Heaton Park is from the makers of Christmas at Kew and Sony Music. And it was this that really set it apart from other light trails as festive music played the whole way round.
From Elton John’s Step Into Christmas to Michael Buble doing his Christmas thing to the stunning Carol of the Bells (you know, the one out of Home Alone) as a blanket of baubles flashed in time to the music. I really did leave feeling festive, and the music had a big hand in that.
Christmas at Heaton Park was lovely this evening. I almost didn't notice how cold it was... 🥶🥶✨ pic.twitter.com/NTvscmRn7c
— Melanie Disley (@meldisley1) December 1, 2023
There was something for all the senses, as the lights were very pretty and atmospheric and there was also a hut to stop and buy marshmallows (£1.80). They did smell wonderful toasting them on an open fire, and a tipi bar offered a range of winter warmers including hot chocolate and mulled wine.
Like most things in life, it’ll cost you a pretty penny or two, especially if you start factoring in food, drink and fairground rides for the kids.
With regards to ticket prices, organisers say early December dates still have availability for off-peak time slots, for which adult tickets are £15 and children aged three to 16 are £10. (Infants aged 2 and under go free.) A family ticket during off-peak costs £47. Off-peak slots start as early as 5pm on some evenings – visit the website for full details.
Taking over from Lightopia, Christmas at Heaton Park is a lovely addition for the festive season and I hope to see it return next year.
It is on until 31 December, open from 4.45pm, last entry 8pm and closes at 10pm. The attraction is closed December 4, 5, 11, 12 and 25.
For more information, visit christmasatheatonpark.co.uk
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