Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Illuminate Guildford
Step into a magical winter wonderland at Illuminate Guildford, Surrey's premier light trail. Wander through a brand new route of captivating light installations set within the historic grounds of Guildford Castle. Enjoy festive treats like hot chocolate, mulled wine, and marshmallow toasting by the fire. This family-friendly spectacle transforms the castle into an unforgettable winter experience.
What to Expect
Brand new route of light installations at historic Guildford Castle
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is available around Guildford Castle. Specific car park locations can be viewed via the provided link.
- Accessibility: Information regarding personal assistance or carer tickets is available via a dedicated link.
- Pets: Service animals welcome
Other Christmas Events Near Guildford
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and couples
Vibe
Magical and festive
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Special Events & Promotions
- New route and light installations for 2025
- Limited tickets available per session
- Personal assistance or carer tickets available
Location
Event Details
Duration
30-40 minutes per trail
Ages
Family friendly
Neighborhood
Town Centre
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Illuminate
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate, mulled wine, cider, and marshmallow toasting available.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets in advance, especially for peak sessions, as they sell out quickly.
- Consider visiting before or after your trail experience to explore Guildford's local restaurants, pubs, and bars.
- Allow approximately 30-40 minutes to fully enjoy the light trail, but feel free to linger longer.
- Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking outdoors on the castle grounds.
- Check the FAQ section for answers to common questions before contacting customer support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Illuminate Guildford?
Illuminate Guildford is a magical, family-friendly event featuring a spectacular light trail with captivating installations throughout the historic castle grounds.
When is Illuminate Guildford open?
The event runs from Saturday, November 15th to Sunday, January 4th, 2026.
How long does the trail take?
The light trail is designed to take approximately 30-40 minutes to complete.
Can I get food and drinks at the event?
Yes, you can enjoy hot chocolate, mulled wine, cider, and marshmallow toasting at the bandstand upon entering the trail.
Is there parking available?
Parking is available around Guildford Castle. You can find more information on the nearest car parks via the website's parking page.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.