Christmas at Kew
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, London, England
A jaw dropping after dark light trail that genuinely wows children.
How the Dad Score breaks down
Scored July 2026- Together time19/20
- Walking the trail hand in hand as the trees light up around you.
- Low faff16/20
- Timed evening tickets sell fast; book the moment they release.
- Value17/20
- Not cheap, but the UK’s original light trail earns the ticket.
- Age span20/20
- Pure wonder from pushchair to grandparent.
- Weatherproof18/20
- The lights shine through drizzle and the trail runs regardless.
Editorial, never paid. How the Dad Score works
Christmas at Kew is the UK's original festive light trail, winding through the Royal Botanic Gardens after dark. Expect huge illuminated installations, glowing colour tunnels, music, a fairground and a visit from Father Christmas. Entry is timed in the evening and tickets sell fast.
Why it works for a dad and child
Walking the trail hand in hand as the trees light up is the kind of evening a child remembers for years. It is contained, walkable and packed with moments that make small faces light up.
When is Christmas at Kew?
Christmas at Kew runs 13 Nov to 3 Jan 2027 in London, England.
Is Christmas at Kew worth it with kids?
girl.dad gives Christmas at Kew a Dad Score of 90/100. A jaw dropping after dark light trail that genuinely wows children.
What should we plan for at Christmas at Kew?
It is a seasonal event at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in London. Best age on the listing is All ages, and the price band is ££.