Christmas at Kew 2026

Kew Gardens becomes a night walk through light, music and the winter landscape for Christmas at Kew 2026. The trail runs on selected dates from Friday 13 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027; it is a separately ticketed, timed-entry event, not part of ordinary daytime admission.

Dates and entry times

Entry slots run from 4.20pm to 7.40pm, with the gardens closing at 10pm on most nights. Kew lists no event on 16 November, 23 November, 28 November or Christmas Day. Last entry depends on the gate: Brentford Gate 7pm, Elizabeth Gate 7.20pm and Victoria Gate 8pm. On 24 December the gardens close at 9pm and last entry is earlier.

What is along the trail

This year's route pairs new light installations with returning favourites, illuminated landscapes and the water display at Palm House Pond. There is a traditional fairground and seasonal food and drink. Kew has added adult-only evenings on 3 and 9 December; quiet-access sessions are also listed on selected dates for visitors who prefer a less busy, lower-sensory visit.

Tickets and getting there

Kew's event page lists tickets from £25.50; its booking guide lists adult off-peak tickets at £29.50 and peak tickets at £37, including the booking fee. Advance booking is essential because each entry time has limited capacity. Kew Gardens station is served by the District line and London Overground.

Check the official dates page before travelling: the trail does not run every night, and entry-gate closing times vary. A light-trail ticket does not include daytime admission to Kew Gardens.

The same weekend, and the last one

The EFG London Jazz Festival opens on the same Friday, 13 November, and the Lord Mayor's Show goes through the City the next morning. At the other end of the run, the trail's last night, 3 January, comes two days after the London Parade.