The spectacle of lights at RHS Garden Hyde Hall
With the Christmas spirit in the air I was excited to take the kids to experience GLOW at Hyde Hall which is located just outside of South Woodham Ferrers. It was our first-ever visit to a light trail, and we were eager to see what it had in store for us. Accompanied by some friends, we embarked on our adventure at the after-dark experience.
A Magical Evening of Lights
From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the dazzling display of lights that adorned the gardens. The children’s faces lit up as they discovered the vibrant colours and different installations plus there was ample space for them to run around freely. One of the great things was that it felt very safe, the kids could run around the gardens allowing them to explore in a safe environment. The gardens are huge, there is a lot to see and it didn’t feel too crowded or rushed.
Delicious Food Options
When it came time for refreshments, we were pleased to find a variety of options available. The Clover Cafe at the top offered indoor dining, while food trucks at the bottom served up a tempting selection of burgers, waffles, hotdogs, sweets, and both hot and cold drinks. We indulged in a hot dog, two hot drinks, and a bottle of water, which cost us £16. There were benches conveniently placed around the food areas, providing a comfortable spot to sit and enjoy our meal. Although we had to wait briefly for a table to become available, it wasn’t an excessively long wait.
Convenient Facilities and Accessibility
Parking was a breeze, with a spacious car park available free of charge. The event’s timing, from 5pm to 9pm, allowed for flexibility in arrival and departure times. It’s worth noting that there is a flat route provided for disabled access and pushchairs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience. Additionally, there was a charming shop at the end of the trail, offering a wide range of Christmas gifts and toys, perfect for finding that special something.
Overall, a Memorable Experience
Our visit to GLOW at Hyde Hall was a delightful and memorable experience for our group. The enchanting lights, spacious surroundings, and delicious food options made it an enjoyable outing for everyone. We highly recommend this event to other families looking for an evening outdoor experience in nature that also celebrates the holiday season. Make sure to mark your calendars and experience the magic of GLOW at Hyde Hall!
See the Glow at Hyde Hall website here.
Ticket Information
The experience is open throughout November & December – check the website for days & opening times.
RHS member prices* Available on selected dates between 23 Nov – 30 Dec Adult (or family guest): £8.95 Child (5–16): £4.45 Children under 5 free
- RHS members enjoy reduced prices as their memberhip package already covers garden entry.
Non-member prices Available on selected dates between 23 Nov – 30 Dec Adult: £15.95 (£8.95 ticket + £7 entry) Child (5–16): £8.45 (£4.45 ticket + £4 entry) Children under 5 free
Travel Info
You should plan to arrive by car to visit this attraction.
We travelled from Chelmsford and the journey time by car was 25 minutes.
We think this experience is best suited to: Adults and Children of all ages.
For more ideas for family days out take a look at the Visit Essex website.
