A dazzling display of illumination is set to kick-start the countdown to Christmas.

Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens will sparkle throughout the winter with the return of the ILLUMINATE event.

Vibrant lights will take-over the gardens from the end of November until early January in what is described as a celebration of light and colour.

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 said: “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.

ILLUMINATE begins on Friday, November 25 and will run between 4:30pm and 8pm on various dates throughout the winter period until Sunday, January 8. Tickets can be purchased by visiting abbotsburytickets.co.uk