The Festive Season At The Arboretum

Visitor Announcement

Armed Forces Memorial
On Sunday 14 December the Armed Forces Memorial will be closed to all visitors from 11am - 12pm and 3pm - 4pm for the Royal British Legion’s Remembering Operations in Bosnia event. 
Find out more

With winter walks, tasty treats, seasonal experiences and a warm welcome, the Arboretum is the perfect place to gather with family and friends this festive season. 

The Arboretum grounds are free to enter and are open from 10am - 4pm daily. 

Special opening hours will apply on the following dates: 

Wednesday 24 December10am - 3pm
Thursday 25 DecemberCLOSED
Wednesday 31 December10am - 3pm

 

Events to Enjoy Together

Image shows a young boy at the Illuminated Arboretum event, hanging a lighted bauble as part of an interactive display.

Illuminated Arboretum

5 - 22 December 2025

 

Around every corner at the Arboretum, you’ll find a story waiting to be discovered. Join us this December for a mesmerising journey with a difference. With the night sky setting the scene, Illuminated Arboretum transforms our landscape using light, sound and colour to bring our special stories to life.

 

This year, as we mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War, we’ll be shining a special light on pivotal moments from the year 1945. 

Illuminated Arboretum

Group Christmas Lunches

1 - 21 December 2025

 

Gather your group* in the Founders Room and enjoy a glass of prosecco followed by a delicious two course festive lunch with tea, coffee and mince pies.

 

£34.95 per person. Advanced booking essential.

To book please talk to our groups team on 01283 245 143.

 

 

*Groups of minimum ten or more persons.

Image of the Christmas Truce Memorial

Christmas Truce Talks

Daily from 6 - 21 December 2025

 

The Christmas Truce of 1914 became one of the most famous events of the First World War.

 

Join us at 11.30am on selected dates to discover more about the Christmas Truce Memorial in our fascinating free talk.

 

 

Live Music

Selected Dates Throughout December

 

Throughout the festive season we'll be joined by talented community choirs who will be performing festive favourites in our Remembrance Centre.

Illuminated Arboretum
Illuminated Arboretum (C)Bruce Adams/Daily Mail