Illuminated Arboretum light trail returns this winter with a new route and 1945-themed stories

Tickets are now on sale for the National Memorial Arboretum’s annual Illuminated Arboretum light trail, ahead of its return to Staffordshire in December.

The popular event will run from 5 to 22 December 2025. Tickets are available now at a discounted advance rate for a limited time, with children’s tickets from £12 and adult tickets from £20, with further discounts available for group bookings and members of the NMA Friends scheme. Early booking is recommended to secure tickets for this frequently sold-out annual event.

Each year, Illuminated Arboretum brings the 150-acre site to life after dark with an encapsulating light trail full of colour and wonder. The approximately 1.5-mile-long experience offers families the opportunity to see the Arboretum and bring its stories to life, in a completely new light.

This year’s Illuminated Arboretum will incorporate themes from ‘The Year Was 1945…’, a year-long programme marking 80 years since the end of the Second World War. Throughout 2025, the Arboretum has been sharing stories and memories from this pivotal year. Along the trail, visitors will encounter moments of storytelling that ‘open a window in time to 1945’, exploring the jubilation of victory, the solemn Remembrance of those who never returned, and the enduring legacy of a conflict that shaped the world we live in today. Arbie the Owl will also be making his return, guiding visitors along the route and introducing the new interactive sensory installations, immersive spaces, and areas for personal reflection.

“Illuminated Arboretum has become a firm family favourite over the past six years, with people returning year after year to enjoy this constantly evolving experience,” said Neill Martin-Hoare, Head of Events at the National Memorial Arboretum. “This year’s trail promises the same unique blend of creativity, culture and Remembrance that makes the event so special. We encourage visitors to take advantage of our advance ticket offer to secure their preferred date and timeslot, while benefiting from preferential pricing.” 

With regards to previous incarnations of Illuminated Arborteum, visitors have said:

• “A truly wonderful experience. Balance on reflection and festivity was perfect. The hands-on displays were engaging.”
• “A really enjoyable experience. The walk around the illuminated arboretum was lovely. Such a magical and peaceful feeling. Would definitely recommend to others and return ourselves.”

Advance ticket pricing for Illuminated Arboretum 2025 will be available until 30 September.

For more details, and to book tickets, click here.