ENCHANTED GARDENS LIGHT TRAIL RETURNS TO THE TOWN GARDENS

Following on from the success of the inaugural Enchanted Gardens Light Trail, which welcomed over 27,000 people in December 2021, South Swindon Parish Council are thrilled to announce the return of this spectacular family experience to the Town Gardens over 2022’s festive period. And, this year, the trail is set to be bigger and better than ever!

From Friday 2 until Saturday 31 December, a magnificent outdoor lighting trail, specially designed by light art pioneers, Luminism, complete with state-of-the-art effects, remarkable light art sculptures and interactive illuminations that are set to amaze Swindon residents of all ages.

The historic Town Gardens, located in Old Town, Swindon, were laid out in the late 19th and early 20th centuries on the undulating Okus Field, the site of old Purlock stone quarries. There are a number of historic points throughout the Town Gardens, including the 1930s Art Deco Bowl, in which South Swindon Parish Council have successfully hosted a varied programme of theatre and music events throughout the summer, attracting over 1300 attendees to this iconic space.

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 are excited to launch 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 (Really Rather Wild) 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. Make sure to keep an eye on this website and @SouthSwindonParish on social media for updates.

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. 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.

Neil Hopkins, Chair of Leisure, Environment and Amenities at South Swindon Parish Council said:

“After the huge success of the Enchanted Gardens Light Trail that South Swindon Parish Council introduced into Town Gardens for the first time last year, I am delighted that, once again, working with Luminism, we are bringing an even more spectacular light trail to the Town Gardens for the month of December.

“Luminism are 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 said

“When Neil brought the concept of a Light Trail to our Parish Councillors for consideration last year, we were very impressed but, even then, we didn’t realise how good it would actually be. During last year’s event we had a huge number of really positive customer comments and social media posts, and a score of 4 out of 5 on Skiddle, despite being much cheaper than lots of more established light trails.

“I am delighted that South Swindon Parish Council is once again leading in Swindon with 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.”

Search ‘Enchanted Gardens Light Trail’ on Skiddle to find out more and book tickets.

Tickets are priced at £11.00 for adults and £6.00 for children (aged 5-17 years). Under 4s and carers/assistants may attend free of charge with a paying ticket holder. Booking fees will apply.