LifecanbetoffLast Saturday evening, with perfect weather, the sky was clear and the stars were shining bright – what shone brighter still though, was the Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle based on the outskirts of Winchcombe in the Cotswolds, eight miles north east of Cheltenham.
As we drove down the valley we could see the castle lit up in all it’s splendour. After parking up in the all weather carpark and made our way through the gift shop, we were advised by helpful greeting staff of the way in which we could start the tour.
Following the lit path, your senses were treated to a kaleidoscope of colour that had been created among the castle walls, trees, gardens and ruins.
Each different section was paired with it’s own musical delight which added to the atmosphere – my favourite of course being the music instantly recognised from it’s placement in the Home Alone movies.
My personal photographer was on hand to take photographs the entire way around, clicking away, and me with my trusty iphone managing to get a few snaps too.
It was extremely spectacular and a sight to behold.
Second year
In it’s second year, the Spectacle of Light had new additions to it’s display including Moroccan Lanterns, a beautifully coloured parasol display and enchanted dazzling trees.
Lady Ashcombe of Sudeley Castle said:
“We used to be closed in the winter, but the Spectacle of Light saw 12,000 visitors enjoy Sudeley last December, in a way it has never been seen before. We had to stage it again.”
Along the illuminated trail were Christmas cabins that offered sweet hot chocolate, mulled wine and cider and hot food.
I was unable to resist some churros and chocolate sauce from the very quaint little converted horse trailer (there was also a gin trailer!).
As you came down the steps there was the faint growl of the Mythical Creature in Tower Dungeon and Chloe Green, Dragon Whisperer, was on hand to provide story of the beast behind the door.
I’m torn between the colourful parasol display and the water droplets feature on the lawn as my favourite bits.
I could’ve stood for hours just staring at the mesmerising displays. The entire evening was wonderful and very much got me in the festive mood.
When you can see the Spectacle of Lights
Opening again from tomorrow evening (Friday 15 December) and on set days until 30 December, I highly recommend a visit to the Spectacle of Lights at Sudeley Castle.
Advanced tickets have a 10% saving and are available from the Sudeley Castle website events or by calling 01242 705555.
You can also buy in person at the Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham.
‘On the day’ tickets are only available in person from 4pm onwards at Sudeley Castle Visitor Centre.
As we drove home I noted that the town of Winchcombe also had a pretty decent light display which if you have time, would be worth having a wonder round to continue your festive spirit before heading off home.
The lights truly brought the Castle and gardens to life on what was a cold winters evening.
2018
I look forward to attending again next year if they run it, and seeing what else they can bring to the table!
If it was run next year, my only comment would be better signage from the town to the car park – the entire castle and gardens were lit up so beautifully.
Yet the driveway was dark and unlit – set the scene and treat guests as they drive into the venue and it would give them a glimpse of whats to come!
Disclaimer: I was kindly given entry to Sudeley Castle for the purpose of this review. All opinions my own.
