Swindon's Old Town Gardens are set to be lit up again this Christmas with the return of the Enchanted Gardens Light Trail. 

Following on from the success of the inaugural event which welcomed over 27,000 people in December 2021, South Swindon Parish Council is thrilled to be bringing it back over 2022’s festive period

From Friday December 2 until December 31, an outdoor lighting trail, specially designed by light art pioneers, Luminism, complete with state-of-the-art effects, remarkable light art sculptures and interactive illuminations will "amaze" Swindon residents of all ages. 

Neil Hopkins is chair of leisure, environment and amenities at South Swindon Parish Council, and responsible for bringing the trail to Swindon last year. 

He said: “Luminism is creating a truly memorable experience for Swindon’s residents and those visiting from outside - everything about this light trail is even better than last year with all newly-designed installations, great food and beverage offers and additional gift and charity stalls showing off our iconic Town Gardens at their seasonal best.”

Chris Watts, Chair of South Swindon Parish Council added: “I am delighted that South Swindon Parish Council is once again leading in Swindon by providing such a wonderful light trail event for our residents and the many visitors from outside the area and I am looking forward to seeing the many new installations that I’m sure will enchant everyone who attends.”

Swindon Advertiser: The light trail in Old Town photo: Charlie BluckThe light trail in Old Town photo: Charlie Bluck (Image: Charlie Bluck)

As part of the illuminations, selected local schools have been invited to be part of the event by helping to create one of the light art installations, entitled ‘The Lantern Walk’, which will be positioned on the Quarry Road Pathway.

This year, South Swindon Parish Council is also launching a series of workshops and performances at the Bandstand during the trail’s opening hours, including storytimes with the award-winning local author, Kate Claxton, and performances from local schools and performing arts groups, including Kitty Langan Studio. 

A full schedule of these workshops and performances during the Enchanted Gardens Light Trail will be available online at www.southswindon-pc.gov.uk/enchanted-gardens-light-trail-2022

There will be a limited number of tickets available for the Enchanted Gardens Light Trail, with allocated time slots every 15 minutes, starting from 5pm. 

Swindon Advertiser: The lit-up Town Gardens Bowl photo: Charlie BluckThe lit-up Town Gardens Bowl photo: Charlie Bluck (Image: Charlie Bluck)

Tickets will be available predominantly online with a limited number available on the day at the Box Office, located at the entrance to the trail through the Westlecot Road gates. 

For tickets visit - https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Swindon/Town-Gardens/Enchanted-Gardens-Light-Trail-2022/36156262/