The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe will takeover Leeds Castle this Christmas

New for 2023, the catering and entertainment zone is for groups only and located on the Cedar Lawn, offering a great spot to watch the sun set and see the castle come to life with festive colour. 

There will be festive snacks served, along with hot drinks and a bar in the area, plus traditional fairground rides including a full-sized carousel and helta-skelta lighthouse. Christmas at Leeds Castle runs from 25th November 2023 until 2nd January 2024.

Upon arrival to the castle, groups will enter through the main entrance and see the 1930s interiors of the Library and Drawing Rooms which will be decorated with traditional trees, carefully hung baubles and floral displays, which is where the story begins.

Visitors will soon come across the wardrobe where they least expect to find it, before entering to discover iconic characters, including Aslan The Great Lion and Mr Tumnus, as they overcome the White Witch to experience Christmas and the promise of springtime.

Decoration of the unique interiors will transform the castle to retell the children’s story in festive detail, with displays all inspired by original book illustrations.

What else is there?

Returning for its second year, the all-new reimagined Christmas trail will include large illuminations and Christmas music.

This year’s light trail has 80% new installations including a larger light and laser show projected onto the castle and reflected on the surrounding moat.

The Cathedral of Lights and the Fire Garden will be supplemented with new features including water fountains and illuminated swans gliding across the lake, as well as the new interactive Feast of Lights featuring immersive glowing strings filled with rainbow colours.

The route is entirely on permanent pathways and whilst there are a couple of shallow inclines the majority of the route is flat and accessible by wheelchair.