ABBOTSBURY Subtropical Gardens are set to sparkle this winter as the ever-popular ILLUMINATE event returns.

The idyllic illuminations will pack the gardens with vibrant hues come nightfall from the end of November until early January in what is a celebration of light and colour against the dark winter skies.

The bright lights and the shadows cast by the huge trees and tropical foliage are designed to transform the gardens into a place of wonder.

Abbotsbury Tourism General Manager Martin Alderman says: “We can’t wait to welcome the team from OT Event Technicians back for ILLUMINATE 2022.

“Their hard work makes the gardens look absolutely spectacular as the lights cast magical shadows and change the whole experience of a visit here to something unique and very special.

The sparkly route will be managed by Dorchester's OT Event Technicians for the third year, and they will lace a winding trail through the gardens for all to savour.

Such is the popularity of the event in previous years the trail has this year been extended to further the light journey deeper into the gardens.

Ollie Titterington of OT Event Technicians says: “ILLUMINATE at Abbotsbury is a real gem in our calendar now and one all the team looks forward to. Whatever the weather the micro-climate in the gardens offers new and exciting challenges and keeps us on our toes.

“It’s grown to be our favourite time of the year - after a long busy summer of festivals and events it’s nice to plunge ourselves into the Subtropical Gardens, which brings a sense of calm before a busy winter period.”

ILLUMINATE begins at nightfall on Friday, November 25 and will run between 4:30 pm and 8 pm on various dates throughout the winter period until Sunday, January 8. Final entries for the light trail are between 7 and 7:15 pm.

Adult tickets retail at £12.50 with kids entry costing £7.50. Children under the age of five enter free of charge. For more information regarding bookings visit abbotsburytickets.co.uk