Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt

Enchanted Christmas 2011 at Westonbirt Arboretum is when one of Gloucestershire’s most popular attractions pulls out all the seasonal stops for a must-do festive family event.

With an enchanted wood, choirs and carols, Christmas shopping, seasonal dining and an appearance from Father Christmas himself, 2011’s Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum is sure to be a festive favourite with the whole family.

Visitors from across Gloucestershire and beyond will once again be able to walk the famous one-mile illuminated trail through the arboretum, enjoying the beauty of the towering trees lit by thousands of eco-friendly festive lights, complete with special effects, this winter.

Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from Friday 25 November to Sunday 18 December 2011, this year there’s everything from an illuminated runway, life-size willow reindeer and trees lit by solar power, as well as lights you can turn on by singing to them in Westonbirt’s Enchanted Wood.

This year the Education Centre will also be transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with snow, where children can take part in Christmas crafts, find out about winter customs and learn about the history of Christmas trees.

Plus, not only will Santa be greeting visitors of all ages as part of The Enchanted Christmas grand opening at Westonbirt at 4.45pm on Friday 25 November 2011, but there is also expected to be a number of choir and carol evenings scheduled, for the chance to soak up both traditional seasonal music throughout the festive season.

Visitors are expected to also be tempted with hot and cold food including roast chestnuts, mince pies and mulled wine at Westonbirt Arboretum’s special stalls, and the Maples Restaurant will be serving a Christmas carvery. Plus, there will also be an array of festive goodies including clothes, sweets and decorations available in the Forest Shop.

And as if that wasn’t enough festive cheer for one family outing, Westonbirt Arboretum’s Plant Centre will also be offering a selection of real Christmas trees and decorations, including potted trees and cut trees from sustainable sources, from Thursday 1 December 2011.

While Westonbirt Arboretum is already one of Gloucestershire’s most popular family attractions all year round – boasting one of the most spectacular tree gardens in the world – this Christmas the arboretum’s special festive season of treats is not to be missed.