Lights of Lowther:
A Winter Light Trail in the Lake District
Beginning on the 14th November 2026, Lowther Castle & Gardens will be transformed into a breathtaking illuminated wonderland as we launch our brand-new festive experience, Lights of Lowther. From towering trees bathed in colour to the dramatic gothic castle ruins, Lights of Lowther promises an unforgettable evening of light, music and festivities for visitors of all ages.
You will follow a beautifully designed trail through the castle grounds, discovering enchanting installations, sparkling woodland pathways and immersive displays that celebrate the unique beauty of Lowther.
What you will see
You will start your journey in the beautiful gothic ruins. Lit after dark, you will rediscover the Castle in a completely new light. Leaving the ruin, the trail leads you out into the gardens, which will be adorned in colour and twinkling lights. There will be immersive installations, photo opportunities and the grand finale which will be the view of the castle from the lawns like you have never seen it before.
Along the way festive food and drink including mulled wine and luxury hot chocolate will be served, as well as the opportunity to toast giant marshmallows over our fire pit.
Tickets and prices
Lights of Lowther is pre-booked only. Tickets are on timed entry slots every half hour, which keeps the trail relaxed and stops it feeling crowded.
| Ticket | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | £20 |
| Child (under 16) | £15 |
| Family (2 adults and 3 children, or 1 adult and up to 4 children) | £65 |
Children under 3 go free and do not need a ticket. Three year olds need a child ticket.
Annual pass holders can create an account and receive a 10% discount on their tickets.
Parking is free for this event.
When it runs
Lights of Lowther runs on selected evenings from Saturday 14 November to Wednesday 30 December 2026. Most dates are Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with extra evenings added in the run up to Christmas and between Christmas and New Year.
November
Sat 14th, Sun 15th
Fri 20th, Sat 21st, Sun 22nd
Fri 27th, Sat 28th, Sun 29th
December
Fri 4th, Sat 5th, Sun 6th
Fri 11th, Sat 12th, Sun 13th
Fri 18th, Sat 19th, Sun 20th, Mon 21st, Tue 22nd, Wed 23rd
Sun 27th, Mon 28th, Tue 29th, Wed 30th
We are closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Entry slots start at 4pm and run every half hour, with the last entry at 8pm. Please arrive within 30 minutes of your booked slot. If you book for 4pm, be at the entrance by 4.30pm at the latest.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Dogs are welcome on the trail, as they are across Lowther the rest of the year. We encourage a collar light where you can, so your dog stays visible to other visitors in the dark.
There is no set time. Most people take around an hour, but the trail is yours to walk at whatever pace you like, and there is plenty to stop for along the way.
Wrap up warm. This is an outdoor event on a winter evening and it gets cold once the sun is down. Flat, comfortable footwear is essential. The trail covers garden paths that may get muddy and are uneven in places.
Yes. The trail is designed to be accessible for all, with ramps where there are steps so there is a step free route throughout for wheelchair users and for parents with prams and pushchairs. Because the trail runs on low level lighting, we do recommend a baby carrier over a pushchair where that works for you.
Children under 3 go free and do not need a ticket. From age 3 to 15 a child ticket applies. From 16 it is an adult ticket.
Slots start at 4pm and run every half hour, with the last entry at 8pm. Please arrive within 30 minutes of your booked slot. If you book for 4pm, be at the entrance by 4.30pm at the latest.
Yes, and please do share them. Lowther after dark is worth photographing, and we would love to see what you capture. Tag us when you post.
Plenty, and spread along the route so you are never far from something warm. The main café and the Sculpture Gallery Café will both be open, with pop ups in the Western Range and the Rose Garden Summerhouse. Expect warming dishes, mulled wine and hot chocolate. Marshmallow toasting is at the top of the lawns towards the end of the trail.
No. Parking is free for this event.
In the event of a storm or heavy snow the event may have to be cancelled. If that happens you will be offered an alternative date, and if you cannot make any of the available dates you will receive a full refund.
Lights of Lowther is a separately ticketed event, so an annual pass does not cover entry. Pass holders can create an account and get 10% off their tickets.