The Spectacle of Light is set to return to Sudeley Castle for its ninth year, promising visitors a mesmerising after-dark experience to kick off the festive season in Gloucestershire. This year's event runs on selected evenings from 22nd November – 30th December and will take on the magical new theme of Sleeping Beauty, featuring dazzling lights, immersive storytelling and unforgettable new installations.

Visitors will embark on a journey through Sudeley Castle's stunning award-winning gardens, which will be beautifully illuminated with new installations to tell the timeless story of Sleeping Beauty. Guests can expect to encounter the Princess who has been cast into a deep sleep for 100 years, the heroic Prince destined to awaken her, and a host of other memorable characters including The Wicked Fairy and the Good Fairies, who will interact with visitors around the trail and bring the magical story to life. This immersive experience promises to be a highlight of the festive season for families in and around Gloucestershire, combining breathtaking visuals with the much-loved fairytale.

This year's event will feature some stunning new installations that bring the Sleeping Beauty Theme to life. They include a striking new avenue of sparkling arches along the castle's magnificent HaHa, enormous woodland chandeliers, and two giant overgrown thrones in the picturesque ruins of the Tithe Barn, transforming the space into a royal throne room fit for a fairy tale. In addition to this, St Mary's Chapel, the final resting place of Queen Katherine Parr, will be bathed in soft, glowing candlelight.

As guests follow the illuminated trail, they can warm up with a delicious selection of festive beverages, including spiced mulled wine and sprinkled hot chocolates. Tempting hot food and freshly made donuts will also be on offer as an added treat. Visitors are also invited to visit the Castle gift shop, after their light trail experience, to browse unique Christmas gifts and souvenirs, perfect for taking a piece of the magic home.

Sudeley Castle is conveniently located a short drive from Cheltenham, Gloucester, Worcester, Tewkesbury, Cirencester and surrounding Cotswold towns and villages. There is ample on-site free parking for Spectacle of Light visitors.

Nic Beeby, Founder of Spectacle of Light, said: “This year, we're thrilled to bring the much-loved tale of Sleeping Beauty to life against the breathtaking backdrop of Sudeley Castle. With stunning new light displays and memorable characters, this year's trail promises to be our most captivating yet, offering visitors an unforgettable festive journey through one of the UK's most picturesque and historic settings.”

Advance tickets for the Spectacle of Light are available until 21st November, offering visitors a 10% discounton all full-price tickets.

Don't miss your chance to experience Gloucestershire's most enchanting light trail, set in the magical surrounds of Sudeley Castle this Christmas. Pre-book your tickets now and prepare to be captivated by the splendour of Sleeping Beauty in a spectacular illuminated setting.

Tickets for the 2024 Spectacle of Light can be purchased online at https://www.everymantheatre.org.uk/sudeley/ or by phoning 01242 705555.

ENDS.

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Useful information about Spectacle of Light

The family-friendly trail is open evenings from 4.45pm onwards on the following dates:

November: 22nd – 24th, 29th-30th

December: 1st, 6th-8th, 12th-15th, 17th-23rd, 27th-30th

Each evening the Spectacle of Light is a continuous experience with entry time slots from 4.45pm -7:15pm A typical walk will take approximately 60 -75 minutes, although visitors are welcome to stay longer if they wish.

Tickets to Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle must be pre-booked online (via https://www.everymantheatre.org.uk/sudeley), in person at the Everyman Theatre Box Office in Cheltenham, or via phone on 01242 705 555. Tickets cannot be purchased at Sudeley Castle.

Only assistance dogs are permitted to the Spectacle of Light.

Further information can be found at: https://www.spectacleoflight.co.uk/sudeley

Ticket prices: