Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey Review
DISCLOSURE – THIS EXPERIENCE WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST/S FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW.
Reviewed by Amy Peacey
I have never visited the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens before, but I have always heard great things about it. That is why I am so excited to finally experience it for the first time during the Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens event. My family and I attended the Light Up trail on the opening night. My daughter has just turned three years old, and this was our very first light trail together.
The weather wasn’t great, with intermittent rain but this did not spoil the experience. The walk was nice and flat with hard standing so no need to worry bringing the off road buggy. I do not see well in low light so was a little worried but this was not an issue.
The event was really well organised with plenty of parking. Entry into the event was slick and streamlined. The staff who were in attendance at the event were all friendly and knowledgeable.
The lights were really beautiful, and my daughter was taken aback with some of the displays. The music also added to the atmosphere and made a brilliant way to enter the festive season. The light installations transform the beautiful gardens into a dazzling winter wonderland
The light displays were amazing with all the trees being lit up and they even had lanterns on the lake.
Each area of the trail was different, one area had laser lights which felt like you were in a little rave. My daughter loved the sensory area which had bubble machines with smoke inside the bubbles. We had great fun popping the bubbles.
We had read about the “Seasons of Light” installation by Bright Side Studios which is new for 2025. This really was something. It was an immersive display which used animation, 3D effects, and cinematic techniques to showcase the beauty of the changing seasons. Quite spectacular.
In addition to the lights, there were live performances to enjoy throughout the trail. Lots of festive treats were also available, including mulled wine, hot chocolate, and fire pit marshmallows. This was great to warm us up on a chilly evening. light up merchandise was also be available to buy. The prices were quite reasonable with items available for under £10. You can buy the merchandise and the festive treats in advance, if you wanted too.
We had to travel about an hour and due to our ticket time we did encounter some rush hour traffic, but this was a small price to pay for a wonderful evening. As a family we had a great time, and I would definitely come back again next year. The Christmas excitement has begun.
The light trail runs from 27th November to 3rd January at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in Romsey.
Tickets are now available at https://www.lightuptrails.com
The prices start at £12.50 for children and £20 for adults but there are various peak and off peak options available. Family tickets are also available when booking.
Rating: 5/5 – a must for any age.