REVIEW: Illuminate at Abbotsbury

Nestled in the picturesque Dorset countryside less than 10 miles from Weymouth, Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is a hidden gem that truly comes alive during the winter season and even more so during Illuminate.

After visiting Illuminate at The Blue Pool near Wareham twice, I was excited to see that it was going to Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens.

Although the sound and lighting are very similar at both, the gardens make for an entirely different effect and experience.

As darkness descends, a warm and magical glow is lit over the gardens.

Upon arrival we checked in in the gorgeous gift shop (which has the most gorgeous tasteful gifts and decorations) and then headed into the gardens.

The carefully curated trail winds its way through the garden, guiding visitors on a mesmerizing journey of discovery. Each step along the trail reveals new delights, from illuminated trees, walkways, and water features (which were our favourite; it was such a still night, the reflections in the pond were breath-taking.

Highlights

One of the highlights of the Illuminate event is the stunning Tunnel of Light. As you walk through this illuminated tunnel, you'll be surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colours, creating a truly immersive experience – and photo opportunity. We also loved the dancing lights to the sound of the music which begins as you cross one of the pretty footbridges.

Tips for visiting Illuminate at Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens

To make the most of your visit to the Illuminate event at Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

Firstly, it's advisable to book your tickets in advance, as it’s very busy and sells out quickly (we attended during the first week of December and it was very busy).

Additionally, be sure to wrap up warm and wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be exploring the garden on foot (wellies not needed here as another difference to The Blue Pool is that the whole route is on pathways).

Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the magical moments along the trail.

Finally, arrive with a bit of an appetite as the café is a lovely place to go to complete your visit; it’s dressed for Christmas with a huge tree and there are lots of festive bites and drinks on offer (we shared the Christmas cookies and carrot cake and my two young children devoured a fully loaded hot chocolate).

We had a wonderful and memorable experience and we’re looking forward to visiting the gardens in the Spring or Summer months to see them in a different way – there’s definitely always a good reason to return!

Illuminate Tickets

To secure your spot at the Illuminate event, visit the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens website. Here, you can view availability and booking information, ensuring that you don't miss out on this magical experience. Remember, tickets tend to sell out quickly, so it's best to plan ahead and book early.