Did you know that Kew Gardens was home to one of the very first decorated Christmas trees in England? It was Queen Charlotte in the 1790s who dressed branches in one of the largest rooms at Kew Palace, and when the tree was lit and all aglitter, the whole court gathered round.

Now in its third year, the winter trail for 2015 focuses on the Christmas tree and Kew’s special part in the history of our traditional celebrations. The magnificent gardens get a beautiful seasonal makeover with illuminations to light up the buildings, trails and planting. The mile-long trail leads visitors past dancing lit-up fountains, a choir of holly bushes, a scented fire garden and lots of decorated Christmas trees. Santa’s Snowflake Grotto returns and there’ll be vintage rides, Christmas gifts and traditional festive treats.

Launched on Wednesday 25 November 2015, Christmas at Kew Gardens is open daily from 5pm to 10pm until Saturday, 2 January 2016 except on the 14th, 15th, 24th and 25th December. Tickets are available via the website for Kew Gardens.

Christmas at Kew Gardens 2015. Photo: © Jeff Eden, Royal Botanic Garden, Kew.

Christmas at Kew Gardens 2015. Photo: © Jeff Eden, Royal Botanic Garden, Kew.

Christmas at Kew Gardens 2015. Photo: © Jeff Eden, Royal Botanic Garden, Kew.

Christmas at Kew Gardens 2015. Photo: © Jeff Eden, Royal Botanic Garden, Kew.