Christmas at Wimpole
General Questions
Can I bring my dog?
Only guide dogs and assistance dogs are permitted. Other dogs are not permitted.
Please under no circumstances leave your dog in the car while you attend.
Can I bring my drone to the Christmas Trail?
Drones are not permitted.
Can I take photographs at Christmas at Wimpole?
"You are welcome to take photographs and to share these on social media with the hashtag #ChristmasAtWimpole. You can also follow the developments across our Christmas Trails via 'My Christmas Trails' on Facebook and Instagram.
Please note that commercial photography is not permitted at this event, except by prior written agreement. To enquire please email wimpolehall@nationaltrust.org.uk
Can we see Father Christmas at Christmas at Wimpole?
At this time of year, Father Christmas is extremely busy so is unable to meet children individually, however be sure to look out for him as he will be on the trail this Christmas!
What should I wear to Christmas at Wimpole?
Christmas at Wimpole takes place outdoors and you may need to queue on busy days. Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear for winter weather. We reserve the right to refuse inappropriately clothed patrons access to the trail if it is felt they are open to a greater risk of injury.
What time does Christmas at Wimpole finish?
All customers must exit the car park by no later than 2 hours after the last trail start time and in all case by 10:00pm.
Should I arrive in advance of my ticketed time slot at Christmas at Wimpole?
We would advise arriving at the start of the trail 5 minutes before you are due to begin the trail.
What are the trail times for Christmas at Wimpole?
Please click HERE to view a grid displaying all times.
What is the last entry time for Christmas at Wimpole?
What happens if it's bad weather?
Christmas at Wimpole is an outdoor illuminated trail. If the weather presents a hazard and a risk to safety, any decision to cancel the illuminated trail will be taken by 2pm on the day of the illuminated trail and you will be notified shortly thereafter.
You will be notified by email and text message and you will be informed of the re-booking process. It is your responsibility to ensure you have entered correct contain details.
We advise you to check the website and social media for the latest updates before you travel. Make sure to check your junk/spam folders to ensure you have not missed any important communication. We recommend adding ticketek@info.ticketek.co.uk to your email whitelist - click HERE for a guide on how to do so.
If you have not heard from our customer service team regarding a cancellation, the event will go ahead as scheduled. No refunds will be offered simply if the weather is inclement.
What happens if my session is cancelled?
Any decision to cancel the illuminated trail will be taken by 2pm on the day of the illuminated trail and you will be notified shortly thereafter.
You will be notified by email and text message and you will be informed of the re-booking process. It is your responsibility to ensure you have entered correct contain details.
We advise you to check the website and social media for the latest updates before you travel. Make sure to check your junk/spam folders to ensure you have not missed any important communication. We recommend adding ticketek@info.ticketek.co.uk to your email whitelist - click HERE for a guide on how to do so.
If you have not heard from our customer service team regarding a cancellation, the event will go ahead as scheduled. No refunds will be offered simply if the weather is inclement.
Privacy Policy
Ticketing
What are the prices for Christmas at Wimpole?
Please click HERE to view a grid displaying the prices.
What dates are off peak and standard?
Please click HERE to view a grid displaying which timeslots per day are off peak and standard.
What is an Anytime Ticket?
Anytime tickets permit entry at any time between the first session and 10 minutes after the last session on your chosen date.
Tickets are only valid on the date for which they are purchased.
Customers with an Anytime Ticket may still be required to queue when they arrive at ticket scanning depending on the popularity of your chosen date.
Please note that family tickets are not available parking must be purchased separately.
You can find Anytime Tickets HERE.
Do I still need to purchase parking if I have an Anytime Ticket?
Yes, Anytime Ticket holders will still need to purchase a parking ticket with admission.
Does an Anytime Ticket allow me to leave and re-enter?
No, an Anytime Ticket grants entry to the trail once on your chosen date. Re-entry is not permitted.
Can I change the date of my Anytime Ticket?
All tickets are strictly non-refundable. If you wish to exchange your tickets, please download the Ticketek UK app and login with your email address and password created to place your order. Once logged in, you'll be able to exchange your tickets (subject to availability). You can refer to our FAQ page HERE to see how this works on the app.
Exchanges are unavailable within 24 hours of the date you are due to attend.
What does an Anytime Ticket include?
An Anytime Ticket gives you the flexibility of arriving at any time during the event hours on a date of your choice.
Parking is not included and must be purchased separately in advance.
Fairground vouchers are available but must be booked separately.
Where are my tickets?
Digital tickets will be sent to you in your confirmation email at the time of purchase.
You can also download your tickets in your order history.
To access your order history please sign in to your Ticketek Account HERE.
Do I have to book in advance for Christmas at Wimpole?
We recommend that you book early to avoid disappointment. Each timed entry has a limited capacity and the early evening and weekend slots are likely to sell out.
Do I need to pay an admission fee if I am a National Trust Member?
Everyone, including National Trust members, must pay for entry to the trail. Christmas at Wimpole is an illuminated trail held outside of Wimpole's normal opening hours and is run by separate event organisers. National Trust members park for free at Christmas at Wimpole, but this must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.
Do I need to pay for parking if I am a National Trust Member?
Free parking for National Trust Members is only offered on purchases made more than 24 hours in advance. Please ensure you select free parking when booking your tickets to avoid a parking charge on the day.
You will be required to show proof of membership upon arrival. Membership must be valid when purchasing tickets and on the date of visit.
Failure to present your valid membership and advanced parking ticket will result in a full price parking charge.
Can I buy tickets on the day?
We recommend that you book early to avoid disappointment. Each timed entry has a limited capacity and the early evening and weekend slots are likely to sell out. Please note that on the day pricing is higher than tickets purchased in advance.
Can I change the date of my booking?
If you wish to exchange your tickets, please download the Ticketek UK app and login with your email address and password created to place your order. Once logged in, you'll be able to exchange your tickets (subject to availability). You can refer to our FAQ page HERE to see how this works on the app.
Exchanges are unavailable within 24 hours of the date you are due to attend.
Can I have a refund?
All tickets are strictly non-refundable unless refund protection has been purchased and the terms and conditions are met. Please see Refundable.Me's terms and conditions HERE for details on what situations are covered.
Can I show my E-Tickets on my phone?
You can show your E-tickets on your phone, as long as the barcode is clearly visible on entry.
Please turn the brightness on your device up to ensure easy scanning of the barcode.
Is my ticket for Christmas at Wimpole valid for entry during the daytime?
Your ticket for Halloween at Wimpole is only valid for the evening and will only allow you access to the trail at your selected time. If you want to arrive early to visit Wimpole, you will need to pay additional admission and car parking charges.
How can I organise a group visit and is there a group rate for Christmas at Wimpole?
There is a group rate of 10% off groups of 15+ adults. Please contact our customer service HERE. Group discounts are not available to book online and apply to adult tickets only.
How do I update my contact number or email address?
You can update your email address in your Ticketek account online under 'Personal Details'. To sign into your Ticketek account please click HERE.
How do I download my tickets?
You can download your tickets from your order history. To access your order history please sign in to your Ticketek Account HERE
I have already placed an order, can I add refund protection?
Refund protection can only be purchased at the time of placing an order
I have purchased refund protection. How do I apply for a refund?
You can apply for your refund using RefundableMe's application form HERE.
How long does my refund take to clear?
If you have had a refund approved due to a change in event circumstances, please allow 10-14 working days for a refund to clear.
If you have already requested a refund for an event that has cancelled, please bear with us. Your request is in hand and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
I have purchased the incorrect tickets, can I have a refund?
If you wish to exchange your tickets, please download the Ticketek UK app and login with your email address and password created to place your order. Once logged in, you'll be able to exchange your tickets (subject to availability). You can refer to our FAQ page HERE to see how this works on the app.
Exchanges are unavailable within 24 hours of the date you are due to attend.
Why is there a handling fee for Christmas at Wimpole?
The handling fee charged is for the ticket agents, as they maintain the hardware and software at the venue so your ticket will be recognised. It also allows us to develop and maintain our own technology to make sure you have a simple, straightforward experience getting into your event.
Will I be charged a separate handling fee if I need to add more tickets to my order?
Please make sure you’re booking tickets for everyone in your party including children and infant tickets. Separate handling fees will apply for additional bookings.
My card has been declined, what should I do?
We recommend checking with your card issuer if your card is declined to ensure there are sufficient funds in your account and that there are no problems placing an order on our website.
My transaction is still showing as pending, has the order gone through?
When placing an order, it may show in your pending transactions for up to 3 days, this should then clear from your account.
How long this takes to clear does depend on each individual card issuer. If your order has gone through, please allow up to 24 hours for a confirmation email.
Why can’t I proceed to payment without selecting Refund Protection?
When placing your order, if you do not wish to add Refund Protection to your order, please ensure that you tick No, do not protect my tickets.
Operations and Facilities
Where does the trail start and what is the route at Christmas at Wimpole?
The route is currently being worked on and will be updated here once finalised.
Are there toilets?
Toilets, including accessible facilities, are available at both food villages: one near the visitor entrance at Hardwick Gate and the other at the Stables.
Can I have a catering stand at the Wimpole trail?
If you have any questions regarding having a catering stand at one of our trails, please email commercialenquiries@raymondgubbay.co.uk
Can I pay with cash or card at the trail?
We will only accept card payments at all sale points.
Can I purchase food and drink at Christmas at Wimpole?
Yes, absolutely! This FAQ will be updated with more details of the catering offered shortly before the event.
We will only accept card payments at all sale points
Can we exit the trail at Christmas at Wimpole before it ends?
The route is circular and there is one early exit near Father Christmas. Please speak to the steward positioned here if you require assistance..
How long is the trail at Christmas at Wimpole?
The illuminated trail is 1.5 miles and will take approximately 90 minutes to complete.
Is my ticket for Christmas at Wimpole valid for entry during the daytime?
Your ticket for Christmas at Wimpole is only valid for the evening and will only allow you access to the trail at your selected time.
Is the trail at Christmas at Wimpole dark or covered?
The trail is not covered and all visitors are reminded that this is an outdoor illuminated trail and the weather may be inclement. Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear for winter.
We reserve the right to refuse inappropriately clothed patrons access to the walk, if it is felt they are open to greater risk of injury.
In some areas the lighting will be low level as this is part of the experience. We do encourage visitors to bring along a torch in case of an emergency - this should not be used unless it is necessary.
Customer Service
I want to contact customer service
Please contact Customer Service HERE.
I have sent a message via the contact form, how will I receive my reply?
Once you have submitted your query via the contact form please allow 2 working days for our team to respond to your query via email.
Accessibility FAQ
Can I book a carer ticket?
Yes, we offer a free carer ticket for those who require them when booked with a full price adult, child or family ticket
Can I bring my mobility scooter or can mobility scooters be provided at Christmas at Wimpole?
Mobility scooters/Wheelchairs will not be available on site, though you are welcome to bring your own. If you are bringing a mobility scooter please ensure it is fully charged prior to your visit.
Is the Christmas at Wimpole trail accessible for wheelchair users?
The illuminated trail is approximately 1.5 Kilometers in length. The route is designed so that it can be viewed solely from the garden paths. In wet weather the paths may be prone to puddles but remain accessible.
If weather conditions mean that the trail is not fully accessible for people using wheeled mobility aids, consideration will be made on a case by case basis to allow tickets to be transferred to an alternative date when the ground conditions are more appropriate.
Is Christmas at Wimpole accessible?
The route is designed so that it can be viewed solely from even paths, some interactive elements may invite the audience on to grass where additional pedestrian matting will be provided. There are accessible toilets at the Hardwicke Gate entrance which is close to the car park and visitor centre.
The illuminated trail is approximately 1.5 Kilometers in length. The route is designed so that it can be viewed solely from even paths, some interactive elements may invite the audience on to grass where additional pedestrian matting will be provided.
Is there a ‘quieter access’ session for Christmas at Wimpole?
This session is for adults and young people who would love to experience Christmas at Wimpole without the usual high volumes of people. The session will begin at twilight before the illuminated trail opens to the public, making the transition into the dark much easier. For Christmas at Wimpole 2025, this session will be held on the 3rd of December 2025.
The capacity of this session will be limited to ensure that the trail remains less crowded and more relaxed.
It should be noted that on many of our trails the path network is not tarmac, and although there are stewards along the route to assist you, the trail will follow the natural contours of the landscape and paths can be steep at times.
Wheelchairs, mobility scooters and trampers will not be available to hire on site, so please make any necessary arrangements for these prior to your visit. They are accommodated but discretion is required as the trail may not be suitable for all aids. Stewards will assist where possible but this cannot be guaranteed.
Ticket prices for our quieter sessions are consistent with the rest of the illuminated trail, with carers entering for free. When booking, please talk to our staff about any additional support you may need for exiting the illuminated trail through quieter areas or help with parking closer to the start of the trail.
To book the quiet access session, please click HERE.
Will there be strobe lighting at Christmas at Wimpole?
There will be lighting sequences created within the lighting design that will have some flashing lights contained within them, however, these will not be strobe lighting. We have worked to guidelines on photosensitive epilepsy and will adhere to the industry standard of synchronising effects and locking the sequences to ensure that lights do not operate at more than 4 flashes per second.
Getting There
Where is Christmas at Wimpole and how do I get there?
Address: National Trust Wimpole, Arrington, Royston, Cambridge, SG8 0BW. Click HERE to view the map for directions.
By train: Shepreth is 5 miles from Wimpole and Royston is 8 miles.
By road: 8 miles south-west of Cambridge (A603) and 6 miles north of Royson (A1198). Wimpole’s entrance is via the A603.
By bus: The 75 from Cambridge drops off passengers at Arrington (1 mile from Wimpole) or Orwell (2 miles from Wimpole).
National Trust members receive a free parking space when tickets are booked in advance. Parking will be charged if tickets are bought as on the day tickets.
We will be arriving by coach, do we need to reserve a coach parking space at Christmas at Wimpole?
There is space for 2 coaches per evening. Coach parking is charged at £20.00 per coach. Coaches need to be booked by getting in touch with us HERE.
What if the event is cancelled, how do I get a refund?
If the trail is cancelled you will be sent an email outlining the available options to you.
Is there parking?
Parking is limited and a parking space MUST be purchased in advance along with your trail entry tickets online.
If you require additional parking spaces after your initial order has been made, subject to availability, you can purchase parking HERE.
Is there accessible parking at Christmas at Wimpole?
There are spaces available in the visitor car park and these should be booked when purchasing your trail ticket. Blue Badge parking is charged at £8.00 per car for non-National Trust members.
National Trust members receive a free parking space when tickets are booked in advance. Parking will be charged if tickets are bought on the same day as the trail attendance.
Membership
Do I need to pay an admission fee if I am a National Trust Member?
Everyone, including National Trust members, must pay for entry to the trail. Christmas at Wimpole is an illuminated trail held outside of Wimpole's normal opening hours and is run by separate event organisers. National Trust members park for free at Christmas at Wimpole, but this must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.
Do I need to pay for parking if I am a National Trust Member?
Free parking for National Trust Members is only offered on purchases made more than 24 hours in advance. Please ensure you select free parking when booking your tickets to avoid a parking charge on the day.
You will be required to show proof of membership upon arrival. Membership must be valid when purchasing tickets and on the date of visit.
Failure to present your valid membership and advanced parking ticket will result in a full price parking charge.