After Dark, Chiswick House & Gardens

Brace yourself: it’s that time of year again. The familiar rounds of overcrowded German markets and kitsch Santa’s grottoes beckon. If you find yourself wishing for something a little more elegant during this year’s Christmas run-up, there’s an offering of a more modern kind, nestled in the gardens of eighteenth-century Chiswick House.

For the first time, this little gem of Austen’s England plays host to a twenty-first century festival of lights. The gardens are normally a beautiful place to spend a secluded weekend, a classic stretch of Georgian parkland dotted with roman statues, playful fountains and lonely yew-clad pathways. Now they’re playing host to Chiswick House's ‘After Dark’ series, featuring stunning light displays from Nick Gray (Prodigy, Calvin Harris, London Fashion Week) and a temporary exhibition of sculptures by cutting-edge artist Finn Thomson.

Stroll through the illuminated grounds with family, friends, loved ones (even dogs are welcome!) before heading to the walled garden where food and drink stalls will be waiting to tickle your taste-buds.

Concessions are available through advance booking and for students or over-65s.