Christmas Tree Wonderland Bournemouth returns from 13 November 2026 to 4 January 2027, filling the Lower Gardens with illuminated trees, interactive displays and festive photo opportunities. The main light trail is free to explore, while optional attractions are expected to include Santa’s Workshop, the Christmas Tree Maze, festive mini golf and Santa’s Express. Located beside Bournemouth Christmas Market and SKATE Bournemouth, it forms the centrepiece of Christmas in Bournemouth.
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Friday 13 November 2026 - Monday 4 January 2027
11:00 - 23:00
Christmas Tree Wonderland is returning to Bournemouth for the 2026 festive season, bringing a trail of sparkling trees, illuminated characters and interactive displays to the Lower Gardens.
Running from 13 November 2026 to 4 January 2027, the attraction forms part of the wider Christmas in Bournemouth celebration alongside the town-centre Christmas Market and SKATE Bournemouth.
The central trail remains free to explore, making it an easy Christmas activity for families, couples and groups of friends. Visitors can wander through the gardens at their own pace before continuing towards the seafront or returning to The Square for festive food and shopping.
Christmas Tree Wonderland creates a glowing route through the Lower Gardens, with illuminated trees, festive installations and seasonal photo opportunities appearing along the way.
The displays are particularly atmospheric after dark, when the gardens are surrounded by thousands of lights. However, the central location also makes the trail easy to combine with an afternoon of shopping, a meal or a visit to another Christmas attraction.
The main trail is free, and visitors do not normally need to reserve an arrival time.
The complete 2026 programme and prices for individual attractions have not yet been released. The organiser’s current Christmas Tree Wonderland programme includes:
Some of these are free, while others require separate tickets. Final 2026 availability, prices and operating times should be checked before visiting.
Entry to the main Christmas Tree Wonderland light trail is free.
Visitors can walk through the Lower Gardens, enjoy the illuminated displays and use the public photo points without purchasing a ticket. The interactive light installation has also previously been free to use.
Optional attractions such as the Christmas Tree Maze, festive mini golf, Santa’s Workshop, craft sessions, Santa’s Express and fairground rides may carry an additional charge.
These activities can have different operating hours from the main trail, and advance booking may be required for popular sessions. Confirmed 2026 prices will be added when released.
Santa’s Workshop provides a festive base for family activities in the Lower Gardens.
The programme is expected to include craft classes, storytelling and opportunities to see Santa and his helpers. A small gift shop featuring handmade crafts and Christmas keepsakes may also operate from the workshop.
The precise 2026 schedule, booking arrangements and Santa appearance times are still to be announced.
Families looking for something more interactive can add the Christmas Tree Maze or festive mini golf to their visit.
The maze leads visitors between twinkling trees, while the illuminated mini-golf course adds a little friendly competition to an evening in the gardens. Both attractions are expected to require paid tickets.
Santa’s Express traditionally takes younger visitors on a short train ride through the Christmas displays.
Additional seasonal rides and games are expected around the gardens and seafront, including Bournemouth’s Big Wheel. Individual opening times, age restrictions and prices may apply.
Christmas Tree Wonderland sits between Bournemouth’s other principal festive attractions.
Bournemouth Christmas Market transforms The Square with Alpine-style chalets, seasonal food, gifts and the Alpine Lodge Bar.
Nearby, SKATE Bournemouth will operate in the Lower Gardens from 12 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. Skating sessions should be booked separately, particularly during weekends and school holidays.
Together, the attractions create a festive route from Bournemouth Square through the gardens and towards the seafront.
Main Christmas Tree Wonderland trail: Free
Additional charges are expected for attractions including:
Visitors should check individual prices and booking requirements on the official website.
The main route follows paved paths through Bournemouth Lower Gardens. Some sections have gentle slopes, and the area can become crowded during busy evenings and weekends.
Accessible public toilets are available in Bournemouth town centre. Visitors with particular access requirements should contact the organiser before travelling, especially when booking Santa experiences, rides or other ticketed activities.
Christmas Tree Wonderland is easily reached from Bournemouth Square, which is served by numerous local bus routes.
Nearby car parks include:
Bournemouth railway station is approximately one mile away. Local buses and taxis connect the station with the town centre.
Parking is likely to be busiest during weekends, school holidays and the final week before Christmas. Allow extra time if attending a booked skating session or Santa experience.
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