The Lost Gardens of Heligan’s legendary Night Garden winter celebration will make a spectacular return from Friday November 13 as new, larger-than-life installations light up the world-famous gardens, alongside much-loved classics.
Among the highlights on this year’s new mile-long trail is Singularity, a breathtaking eight-metre-wide sphere of light and movement by internationally acclaimed artist collective Squidsoup, which will transform Heligan’s Flower Garden into a mesmerising spectacle of colour and energy.
Featuring more than 20,000 individual LEDs, the installation creates an ever-changing world of light, rippling and pulsing in hypnotic waves. Inspired by the mysteries of the universe, Singularity blurs the boundaries between art, science and technology in a captivating display.
All this is in addition to the garden’s wildlife-inspired lanterns. Heligan’s festive, red-breasted robin, tawny owl and distinctive kingfisher will be among the magical installations making a return. This year they’ll also be joined by debut appearances from rare-breed sheep, a colourful jay and the humble garden snail.
A familiar face will return to the Heligan Night Garden as Father Christmas opens his new grotto in the heart of the Heligan estate, where he’ll welcome families for magical meet-and-greet experiences alongside his trusty elves. For daytime visitors, Heligan will also introduce new brunch and afternoon tea experiences with Father Christmas, combining delicious festive treats with a magical opportunity to meet the man himself.
The Heligan rollerskate rink returns to the estate in a new location for 2026 and will be open during every Night Garden evening, as well as selected daytime hours. Visitors are invited to lace up their skates and glide through winter, rolling through the groovy glow of this family celebration.
Heligan Night Garden has been named as a finalist in the Tourism Event / Festival of the Year category at this year’s Cornwall Tourism Awards, with the winner due to be announced on Thursday November 12.
David Harland, chief executive of The Lost Gardens of Heligan, said: “There’s something truly special about seeing Heligan come alive after dark, and this year’s Night Garden promises to be our most spectacular yet.
“From the breathtaking scale of Singularity to the charm of our new wildlife-inspired lanterns, we’re bringing together extraordinary creativity and the magic of the natural world in ways we’ve never done before.
“With Father Christmas settling into his new grotto, the return of our roller rink and even more festive experiences to enjoy, we can’t wait to welcome families and friends to make some wonderful winter memories together.”
The winter wonderland experience will also feature extra special food and drinks options to keep trail-goers warm and toasty. Heligan’s festive food village will serve up a celebration of winter food and drink, featuring an exciting collaboration with Big Green Egg alongside the return of the popular Verdant Brewing Co. bar.
Night Garden’s much-loved fire pits will also return, inviting visitors to gather around the flames and toast marshmallows.
Heligan Night Garden will open on selected dates between November 13, 2026, and January 2, 2027. Entry is £23.60 for adults and £14.20 for children. Under-threes and essential companions go free and reduced prices are available for Local Pass holders and Blue Light Card holders.
A relaxed session providing a quieter atmosphere is also available on Wednesday, December 16.
