Go Wild After Dark: Port Lympne’s New Winter Light Trail Is the hottest thing to hit the Kent countryside
Lights, lasers, lions and maybe a tipple or two. Port Lympne’s first-ever illuminated trail turns a safari park into the ultimate winter playground.
Forget your average Christmas light show ‘coz this one’s got holograms, tunes, and the odd tiger thrown in for good measure. For the first time ever, Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve has gone full festive with Port Lympne Illuminated, a glowing, after-dark safari that transforms the Kent countryside into a wild winter wonderland.
Set in the rolling Kent countryside, Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve is known for its beautiful landscapes, luxurious safari-style stays, and over 900 rare and endangered animals roaming across 600 acres.
For the very first time ever, Port Lympne will be lit up like never before with a brand-new festive light trail opening on the 28th November.
Created by the award-winning team at LCI Productions, the experience will transform the reserve into a glittering, after-dark adventure that combines art, storytelling, and cutting-edge technology.
As night falls, visitors will wander through glowing portals and shimmering woodland paths, guided by playful fairies and surrounded by 3D projections that bounce across the treetops. If you want brownie points with the Mrs - book this affordable treat up for the family.
The trail will feature a mix of interactive holograms, light and water displays, and original installations. There’s even a disco in the Orangery, where synchronised light and sound bring the party to life.
Snowy scenes, holographic tigers, and twinkling pathways add to the festive atmosphere, creating a setting that feels both wild and wonderfully Christmassy.
No festive outing would be complete without a visit to Santa’s Grotto, where the kids can meet Santa and his elves and take home a gift.
To round off the winter adventure, visitors can enjoy delicious seasonal food from local stalls or hop on a few rides at the vintage fairground. And for those who want to make the most of the reserve, the Nightlights overnight package offers a stay in one of Port Lympne’s 14 unique accommodations, including exclusive after-dark access to the trail.
Running from 28th November 2025 to 3rd January 2026, Port Lympne Illuminated promises to the perfect magical winter escape.
