About

Experience a magical winter's evening together at Illuminated, discovering extraordinary stories told through colour, light, and sound.

Illuminated - A storytelling experience 'light' no other

Around every corner at the Arboretum, you'll find a story waiting to be discovered. Join the Arboretum this December for a mesmerising journey with a difference. With the night sky setting the scene, Illuminated transforms our landscape using light, sound and colour to bring special stories to life. It's magical, meaningful, and memorable, and an experience that everyone will enjoy.

Something extraordinary awaits around every bend along your Illuminated journey, from dazzling installations that tell important stories, to fun hands-on elements you can control and touch. To mark the end of the 25th anniversary year, this year's route will share special stories associated with the Arboretum's first 25 years.

Tickets and Times

Entry to Illuminated Arboretum is every 30 minutes between 4.30pm and 6.30pm (7pm on peak evenings). Relaxed sessions will be held at 4.30pm on 9, 13 and 15 December.

Once you have entered the event, please feel free to spend as long as you wish exploring Illuminated until the Arboretum closes.

Tickets for Illuminated will not be available on 7 and 14 December.

Event Accessibility

Relaxed sessions will be held at 4.30pm on 9, 13 and 15 December. Capacities to attend relaxed sessions will be limited, and the experience will feature more muted light and sound effects.

Visitors with specific questions relating to accessibility can contact the Arboretum in advance of their visit on 01283 245 100 or email info@thenma.org.uk. 

During your visit the team will also be happy to answer any questions or queries.  A visual story of the Illuminated experience will be available in the days before the event.

Free sensory backpacks can be borrowed from the Welcome Desk. The backpacks include fidget toys and a torch - which could be helpful as the trail is outside and in the dark.

Accessible toilets are available about halfway along the route and in the Remembrance Centre, where a Changing Places Facility is also available. 

Baby changing facilities are available in the Remembrance Centre.