Kent's Bedgebury light trail attractions announced for 2023
‘FIreflies’, ‘Northern Lights’ & ‘pampas grass’ are among the new light installations
FIreflies, Northern Lights and pampas grass, are among the new light installations for the Christmas trail Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, in Kent.
It will run from Friday, November 17 until Sunday, December 31.
Installations designed by a range of international and UK-based artists portray the forest in a majestic light, beneath unique canopies drenched in seasonal colour and inspired by the landscape.
Matthew Findlay, Head of UK Trails for Sony Music/Raymond Gubbay Ltd, said: “We are always looking at ways in which we can reimagine what is an unforgettable experience in the festive calendar. This year we are introducing a host of new elements to complement some returning favourites, which will create more memories precious to family, friends and loved ones.”
New installations for 2023 include Fireflies (pictured), sources of light which unpredictably dart, twist, turn, fade and surge between the branches of the trees. They are the innovation of Electric Foundry, with lighting designers and artists to deliver scenic illumination.
Making its UK debut on a Sony Music trail is Squidsoup’s On The Tide, a water-based floating lightwork which uses long bespoke strands of individual LEDs, whilst another new feature to Bedgebury is Pampas. Designed by French artists TILT, pampas grass is gathered in groves to create new green spaces and when lit at night, it becomes an amazing luminous tableau animated with bright colours.
ITHACA Studio’s Aurora, inspired by the Aurora Borealis (also known as the Northern Lights), is a fully immersive installation which sits above visitors as they walk underneath. The spheres change colour and sweep overhead with an accompanying soundscape. Completing the list of new installations is Ros’O, another TILT creation.
The winter trail, which is just over a mile long, is a place where fairy-tale meets fantasy and larger-than-life flora provides plenty of fantastic selfie moments.
When: From 17 Nov-31 Dec. Trail closed Nov 20, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29 and Dec 11, 25.
Tickets: Advanced Admission Tickets: Adults - peak £24, standard £21.50, off peak £19. Children - peak £17; standard £14.50, off peak £13. Child off peak: Family (2 adults, 2 children) - peak £79, standard £69, off peak £61.
Website: christmasatbedgebury.seetickets.com and forestryengland.uk/christmas-bedgebury
