As night falls this winter, Kew gardens transforms into a glittering festive wonderland, with a sparkling path that winds its way one mile through the world-famous botanic gardens, lit by thousands of Christmas lights.

This year, Kew is doing what it does best. Expect brightly coloured laser beams dancing over water and fairy-tale avenues of flora, plus favourite vintage rides (a helter-skelter, boat swings and carousel) as well as Christmas gifts and traditional festive fare. The mulled wine comes highly recommended for the grown ups!

The Palm House will be brought to life once more with a dazzling show of lasers, positively breathtaking when set against the woodland, as each beat of the music flows in time with the changing of the colours in a rigorously crafted lighting display. The fire garden, where rings of fire angelically enshrine tweeting straw birds, and a glowing tunnel of lights, will return this year as well.

Stay warm with a mug of hot chocolate, mulled wine or spiced cider as you take in the heat from the roasting pits, before moving on to meet the man of the moment himself in Kew's North Pole village and watching the stunning light display over the pond.

A word for the wise: large crowds and expensive treats can make the event feel a little naff. So, wrap up warm, prepare to be patient, try to get there either before the crowds (leaving you the whole evening to roam and lots of food to enjoy) or, if you're feeling brave, leave it until later when most people have left.

Booking is essential, click here to book your slot.