An illuminated light trail is a magical experience to finish the year.  Find them all the light trail experiences in Cheshire and nearby North West options for 2026. These events are already booking up quickly, just click on the links below for more information.

For more festive experiences, check out the guide to where to visit Santa in Cheshire & Greater Manchester 2026 and 2026 Manchester & Cheshire Christmas Events

2026 Illuminated Light Trails in Cheshire & Manchester

The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail at Arley Hall & Gardens 

Running from 22nd October to 3rd January, this is not your typical winter light trail!  Beneath the glow of the moon, Arley Hall & Gardens transforms into a magical stage with a light show inspired by Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Iconic scenes, beloved characters, and unforgettable songs from this timeless movie come to life through a dazzling blend of lights, art, technology, music, and sculptures, all set against the natural beauty of the garden.

Land of Lights at Gulliver’s World Resort

Returning in 2026, Land of Lights magical lantern festival is a twist on the usual Christmas light trails.  Lighting up Gulliver’s World Resort in Warrington there will be multiple dreamworlds to discover. Early bird tickets go on sale from early September

Chester Zoo Lanterns & Light

This winter, Chester Zoo will transform after dark into a glowing world of light, colour and sound.

Northern Lights Manchester

Travel through time on Manchester’s most magical light trail at Heaton Park.

Yuletide at Tatton Park

Step into an incredible glittering adventure at Tatton Park Gardens this Christmas.

Dunham Massey Christmas Lights

Step into a world of festive magic as Christmas at Dunham Massey returns for 2026 for it’s 10th year and an array of enchanting new light installations.

Christmas Lights at Magical Woodland

2026 celebrates 10 years of festive magic. Magical Woodland is a 15-acre outdoor theatrical experience with twinkling lights and character appearances Check out our Magical Woodland Christmas lights trail review from a previous year.

RHS Bridgewater Glow

Situated in the historic grounds of the former Worsley New Hall, the beautiful gardens provide a stunning backdrop for an immersive spectacle of light and sound installations.

Trentham Winter Light Trail

Step into an illuminated light trail through Trentham Gardens this winter.

Enchanted at Knowsley Safari 

Wander through a dazzling illuminated Foot Safari, discover magical glowing animal installations on a new extended light trail.

Christmas Lights Switch Ons

Find out where the Christmas light switch ons  are happening in towns and cities across Cheshire – event guide coming soo.  Follow Red Kite Days Cheshire on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

The Twilight Trail

Lightwaves Salford