Christmas at Bedgebury
Step into a magical winter wonderland at Christmas at Bedgebury for 2026. Wander beneath towering conifers as the forest comes alive with color, light, and seasonal sounds. This year's trail is reimagined with new installations like the Christmas Cathedral and Laser Garden, alongside festive favorites. Enjoy enchanting moments, a chance to glimpse Father Christmas, and delicious festive treats from on-site food and drink stalls.
What to Expect
Magical illuminated forest trail with new installations for 2026.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 1 - 1.5 hours to walk the trail
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Forestry England
Food & Drink
A variety of food and drink stalls will be located along the trail, offering sweet and savoury favorites, including spiced winter warmers, hot chocolate, and marshmallows for toasting. Card payments only.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, friends
Vibe
Magical, festive, enchanting, immersive
Energy Level
Low to medium (walking)
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Medium (event may be cancelled in severe weather)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is available for a charge of £10 per car and must be purchased in advance. Accessible spaces for Blue Badge holders are available in the Visitor Centre car park (charge applies). Forestry England Members receive one free parking space per membership, which must be booked in advance. Coach parking is £40 and minibus parking is £15, both must be booked in advance.
- Accessibility: The trail follows a mix of hard standing and tarmac paths with some gradual and steeper slopes. Accessible toilets are available at the Visitor Centre, Walled Garden, and on the trail. A Changing Places facility is located at the Visitor Centre. Blue Badge parking is available but must be booked in advance. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are accommodated but discretion is advised due to path conditions.
- Pets: Dogs are permitted on a short lead, but not extendable leads. Dogs should not be left in cars.
Tips & Advice
- Book your tickets and parking well in advance, especially for popular dates and times, as capacity is limited and on-the-day pricing is higher.
- Arrive at Bedgebury approximately 15 minutes before your allocated trail entry time to allow for parking and finding the entrance.
- Dress warmly in appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear, as the trail is outdoors and paths can be uneven with some slopes.
- Bring a torch for emergencies, but avoid using it unless necessary to preserve the magical atmosphere of the illuminated trail.
- If you have specific dietary needs or allergies, discuss them with the food vendors before ordering, or feel free to bring your own food and drink.
Special Events & Promotions
- New installations for 2026
- Relaxed sessions available on select dates for visitors with additional needs
- Free parking for Forestry England Members (one per membership, must be booked in advance)
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Anytime Ticket?
Anytime Tickets allow entry to the trail at any time between the first and last entry slot on your chosen date. They are valid for one entry only and do not include re-entry. Anytime family tickets are not available.
Can I bring my dog on the trail?
Yes, dogs are permitted on the trail if kept on a short, controlled lead. Extendable leads are not allowed, and dogs should not be left in vehicles.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Christmas at Bedgebury is an outdoor event. Decisions to cancel due to hazardous weather will be made by 2 pm on the day, and attendees will be notified via email and text. No refunds are offered for inclement weather if the event proceeds.
Is the trail accessible for wheelchair users?
The trail is designed to be as accessible as possible on natural landscape paths, which include hard standing, tarmac, gradual, and steeper slopes. Wheelchairs are accommodated, but suitability may vary. Accessible toilets are available.
Do Forestry England Members get any benefits?
Yes, Forestry England Members are eligible for one free car parking space per membership, which must be pre-booked at least 24 hours in advance. Membership must be valid at the time of booking and visit.
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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.