GARDEN illuminations will once again take centre stage at The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells marking the start of the Christmas season.

Visitors to the popular heritage site can explore the magical inner gardens which will be illuminated with festive decorations and lights during special late-night openings, alongside beautifully decorated Palace rooms, Father Christmas, live music and seasonal food and drink.

The ‘Sparkle’ garden illuminations will shine from 5pm until 8pm on special late-night openings from Saturday, November 29, to Thursday, January 4 (with some exclusions). Exciting new additions for 2025 include a lantern tree, illuminated woodland, additional pathway lighting and a wider and longer light tunnel.

Alongside the lights visitors will also enjoy live music, seasonal food and drink and a medieval Palace dressed for Christmas with foliage taken directly from the Palace gardens. In the entrance hall a roaring fire will greet visitors while the popular schools eco-exhibition also returns.

“Our Garden Illuminations are always a highlight of the year,” said Merryn Kidd, CEO of The Palace Trust. “Paired with the decorated Palace rooms, they offer a memorable way for families and visitors of all ages to celebrate the festive season in Wells.”

The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens is open daily.

For the latest news and information, including events and what’s on at The Palace see their Facebook and Instagram pages, and visit the website.

The Palace Trust gets no statutory funding. The cost of maintaining the Palace is met entirely by grants from organisations like the National Lottery and charitable trusts, by admission tickets, special events and our café. But this does not cover the entire cost of everyday maintenance, so donations to this aspect of the work are always welcome.

Tickets for the above event can be purchased online via the website at www.bishopspalace.org.uk