Wellington Illuminova is lighting up the festive season

A light trail is taking place in Riseley, offering a night out for families wanting to walk in a winter wonderland.

Wellington Country Park is the venue for the Wellington Illuminova, which runs until Monday, December 23.

Organisers say it is a world where imagination knows no bounds, as enchanting lights spark creativity and transport visitors into a realm where dreams come to life.

And while it is operating in the run-up to Christmas, organisers say it is not a Christmas light trail, so don’t expect Santa and his elves to be hiding around.

Instead, Wellington Country Park’s team say it is “an immersive illuminated night-time adventure with magical light and sound at the heart of its story. Let technology, light and engaging installations awaken your senses”.

Visitors can stroll around the grounds of the popular outdoors space and enjoy the light displays that have been set up.

It is expected that the trail will take people 90 minutes to complete.

READ MORE: Nativity Live! celebration event on Christmas Eve in Caversham

For those who want to rest their merry gentlemen and women, let nothing you dismay, for the Illuminova Express is running. This is a miniature railway that will offer rides around the country ways.

Tickets for this must be purchased in advance, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Photo points have been set up at various locations around the park giving people opportunities to create lasting memories.

And there will be a light show at various points in the park. 

Is food available?

There are snacks and drinks available throughout the evening.

Its Café 1815 will be open until 8.30pm, and the menu includes pizzas, burgers, paninis, loaded fries and meals for children.

Organisers say it is the perfect spot for light bites or an evening meal.

Victoria’s Waffles and Pancakes is open at the Lakeside Café, offering fluffy pancakes and other sweet treats.

And the Lakeside Café will sell snacks such as pizza twists, hot dogs and sausage rolls. Confectionary and hot drinks can also be bought.

When can I visit the Wellington Illuminova?

Wellington Country Park is opening on selected dates across December.

The sessions are this weekend (Friday, December 6-Sunday, December 8), then daily from Thursday, December 12, through to Monday, December 23.

The opening hours are from 4.30pm to last entry at 7.30pm. The main gate at the park closes at 9.15pm.

It is recommended that people arrive at least 10 minutes ahead of their time slot.

Tickets have to be pre-booked in advance, they will not be available on the day.

There are peak, standard and off-peak prices. These are based on the day you visit and the time you enter Wellington Country Park.

Adult tickets are £22 off-peak, £25.50 standard, and £28 peak.

Child tickets are £18, £21.50 and £24 respectively.

Family tickets are £72 off-peak, £84.60 standard, and £93.60 peak.

There is a £3 fee to ride the Illuminova Express Train Ride.

The event is subject to the weather forecast.

It was cancelled on Thursday, December 5 as a result of the strong winds and heavy rain, with organisers saying the safety of visitors and their staff is its top priority.

For more details or to book, log on to its website https://wellingtonilluminova.co.uk/

I have an annual pass for Wellington Country Park, is this included?

No, it’s not. People who have annual passes, free day tickets or vouchers for free train rides are unable to use them on the Wellington Illuminova.

Where is Wellington Country Park?

Wellington Country Park is on Odiham Road in Riseley RG7 1SP.

The park has closed for winter, apart from the Illuminova, and will reopen in time for February half-term – Saturday, February 15, 2025.

For more details on the park and its activities, log on to https://wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk/whats-on/