RHS Glow returns to Rosemoor Gardens with its longest illuminated trail yet

Rosemoor Gardens in North Devon is set to sparkle like never before this winter as the RHS Glow event returns, inviting visitors to explore a spectacular light and sound display from November 15 through December 28. This year, the show boasts RHS’s longest-ever illuminated trail, stretching 1,830 meters, with a dazzling array of new light installations and festive surprises along the way.

This immersive Glow experience takes visitors on an atmospheric journey through the gardens, with over 40 lighting points creating an enchanting environment designed to inspire wonder. The event has been meticulously prepared by a six-person team who, over the course of 10 days, will walk around eight miles daily to set up LED displays and special effects.

The trail opens with a snowflake-themed pathway that leads visitors to the Stream Field, where vibrant colour-changing spheres light up the surroundings. Here, guests can enjoy seasonal treats, including hot pasties and mulled wine, before following the route along the picturesque stream in the rock gully. New this year, a mesmerizing rainbow tunnel leads to a shimmering waterfall and the mysterious silhouettes of the garden's unique Stumpery.

One of the highlights is the "field of flames" in Lady Anne’s Arboretum, where majestic "champion" trees - some planted as far back as 1959 - are adorned in striking harlequin hues, creating a captivating visual experience. In keeping with environmental considerations, certain trees will be left unlit to accommodate resident wildlife. The trail continues into the Bicentenary Arboretum, showcasing a vivid display that honours some of the northern hemisphere's most remarkable tree specimens, capped by an installation featuring seven giant mirror ball trees, each holding over 84,000 tiny mirrors.

Along the way, visitors can pause to listen to “Jack Frost – A Winter Story,” a captivating tale narrated by renowned gardener Alan Titchmarsh, with music by composer Debbie Wiseman. Toward the end of the trail, the lakeside comes alive with a stunning show of light and texture that reflects brilliantly off the water, complemented by twinkling pea lights and fairy bell trees.

The event includes family-friendly entertainment each evening, with activities ranging from street theatre to soothing hand-pan drum performances, ensuring there is something for every age group. Art lovers will also find 200 unique sculptures by UK artists throughout the gardens, part of Rosemoor’s annual Winter Sculptures exhibition, which runs until January 31.

For those looking to enhance their experience, the Garden Restaurant offers a "Glow Simple Supper" for £20, featuring a choice of savoury pies and seasonal desserts, along with a £5 voucher redeemable in January. Families seeking a quieter environment can opt for the Special Educational Needs (SEN) evening on December 5, with a more relaxed pace and reduced lighting.

With electric buggies, wheelchair access, and shorter routes available, RHS Glow ensures a memorable and inclusive experience for all. Tickets are in high demand, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date and time for this enchanting winter event.