Magical, dog-friendly Christmas light trails are popping up all over the UK for 2025, why not treat your pup to some festive magic? This guide rounds up sparkling trails where pups are genuinely welcome, so you can plan wintry wanders with your dog in tow.
Windsor Great Park Illuminated, Berkshire
Windsor Great Park’s award‑winning illuminated trail is fully dog-friendly, welcoming dogs on leads to all sessions, with water stations and even a dedicated dog‑friendly photo spot. Expect glowing canopies, sparkling fountains and immersive light installations winding through the historic parkland, plus pre‑bookable on‑site parking.
Ashridge House Illuminated, Hertfordshire
Ashridge House runs “Hertfordshire’s Biggest Christmas Light Trail” through its Grade II listed gardens, featuring over 20 installations and a towering 115ft observation wheel. Dogs are welcome on leads on special dog‑friendly nights every Wednesday and Thursday evening, making it perfect for a midweek festive adventure.
Tulleys Christmas Light Festival, West Sussex
Tulleys’ Christmas Light Festival near Crawley is one of the South East’s most dramatic trails, with interactive zones, music and a lively festive atmosphere. Dogs are permitted throughout the trail as long as they stay on a lead, and there is free on‑site parking, though visitors should allow extra time to leave at busy periods.
Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival, Dorset
Poole’s free maritime light trail turns the harbour, old town and high street into a glowing coastal walk, ideal for dogs who enjoy bustling evening strolls. The route is outdoors, runs daily through the festive season, and is dog-friendly, though it can get busy around peak evenings and weekend events.
Winter Glow, Worcestershire
Winter Glow’s illuminated trail at the Three Counties Showground offers dedicated dog‑friendly light trail dates plus special “Santa Paws” sessions where pups can even meet Father Christmas. Dogs go free on the light trail (added as an “additional dog” on your booking) and are welcome in the food court, café and bar, provided they are on a lead.
Land of Lights, Warrington
Land of Lights at Gulliver’s Warrington features huge lantern installations and glowing pathways that run throughout winter. Selected “dog-friendly nights” allow well‑behaved dogs on leads to join the fun, making it a good option if you are travelling north for the holidays.
Luminate at Margam Country Park, Wales
Luminate’s winter light trail at Margam Country Park includes designated dog‑friendly nights where pups can explore the illuminated woodland route. The 2025 trail promises new designs and installations while keeping the relaxed, sensory atmosphere that suits confident, sociable dogs.
Tips for a magical, stress‑free visit with your dog
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Check the event’s 2025 dog rules and dates before booking, as many trails only allow dogs on specific evenings.
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Keep pups on a comfortable, secure harness and lead and avoid very loud, crowded slots if they are sensitive to noise or flashing lights.
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Pack essentials like poo bags, a collapsible water bowl, treats and a cosy Hiro + Wolf jumper or bandana so they stay stylish and snug on those frosty, fairy‑lit walks.
- Use a hands-free lead to make your evening as magical and fuss-free as possible. Plus it keeps your hands free for a hot chocolate or a mulled wine!