ILLUMINATED light trails have grown in popularity in recent years, with many attractions now offering them as part of their festive programme of events.

Visiting a light trail has become a must-do activity over the festive period for many families, providing a magical and immersive experience for both children and adults.

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I was lucky to be invited to visit West Green House’s illumination trail which runs until December 30.

The gardens are only 20 minutes' drive from Basingstoke, located near Hook, which was ideal for us and meant our son could see the lights after dark and still be home for bedtime.

Visitors can book a timed ticket for entry between 4.30pm and 8pm, with the gardens staying open until 9pm.

The extraordinary display is set in the 10-acre gardens at West Green House.

We made our way around the winding trail which takes visitors on a one-way circuit of the gardens.

At every turn there was a display to amaze us, with gigantic shimmering flowers, glowing fairies and a forest of illuminated field flowers.

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My son was dazzled by the pretty lights twinkling in the trees, and he was particularly impressed by the hidden displays seen by peering through windows.

The display was creative and majestic, capturing the imagination of children who stared wide-eyed at the beautiful creatures and flowers looming around every corner in the garden’s classical follies, glowing in the darkness.

The accompanying classical music and instrumental Christmas carols created a dramatic and immersive experience.

We stopped halfway round for a hot chocolate at one of the outlets positioned along the trail, which also offer hot dogs, cranberry sausage rolls, waffles and festive drinks such as mulled wine.

As we made our way along the final part of the trail, West Green House’s lake came into full view, offering a showstopping, spectacular finale as the enormous lit water lilies could be admired, their reflection glimmering in the dark waters.

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It took around an hour to complete the trail and afterwards we warmed up with delicious broccoli and stilton soup in the café, which has been decorated ready for Christmas, offering a cosy, festive place to sit down and enjoy refreshments. 

West Green House’s Christmas Lights are open from 4.30pm to 8pm, with slots pre-booked on every half hour.

Tickets cost £19 for adults and £15 for children off-peak, and £22 for adults and £18 for children during peak hours. There is also a £1 booking fee. Children under three years are free.

Car parking is £4 and only pre-booked cars are allowed to park on site.

For more information visit West Green House's website here.