RHS Garden Bridgewater is set to shine brighter than ever this Christmas as RHS Glow returns with a reimagined illuminated trail, spectacular new installations and the chance to see the garden transformed after dark.

Running on selected evenings from 26 November to 30 December, RHS Glow has become one of Greater Manchester's most popular festive experiences, attracting thousands of visitors each year to enjoy the garden transformed by light, colour and seasonal entertainment. With new installations, new performances, a dedicated SEN-friendly evening on 8 December and the addition of views of the new Yangzhou Scholars' Garden to the illuminated route, this year's event promises even more for visitors to discover.

Following the success of last year's event, Glow 2026 will feature a host of brand-new experiences, with interactive displays, immersive light installations and illuminated artworks creating a magical winter atmosphere throughout the garden. Along the route, visitors will discover plenty of opportunities for memorable photographs, from sparkling light displays to dramatic reflections across the water.

Among this year's highlights is a spectacular new commission from outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank. Rising from the depths of RHS Bridgewater's Ellesmere Lake, a magnificent Chinese dragon emerges, illuminated beneath the night sky. Around it, thirteen giant lotus flowers float, their gentle plumes of light and flame unfolding in a slow, mesmerising sequence, their reflections dancing across the lake.

Visitors will also encounter a series of playful animated installations by illustrator and artist Rob Hodgson, whose colourful woodland creatures appear to come alive among the trees, alongside a range of new interactive light experiences throughout the route. Glow favourites Jago Juggling Arts will return with brand new choreographed light show Halo. You really won’t have seen anything like this before!

The festive atmosphere extends beyond the trail, with the Stables Courtyard becoming a hub of seasonal food, drink and entertainment. Visitors can warm up with festive favourites including hot drinks, toasted marshmallows, bratwurst hot dogs and pizza, while seasonal specials such as mulled wine, hot cider and hot Vimto will be available from pop-up bars across the site.

For those looking to get ahead with Christmas shopping, the RHS Garden Centre and Gift Shop will offer plenty of festive inspiration, from gifts for gardeners and nature lovers to Christmas decorations, seasonal plants and locally sourced treats.

Families will find plenty to enjoy throughout the evening, with interactive installations designed to delight children and adults alike, making RHS Glow an ideal festive outing. With larger-than-life light installations, immersive experiences and magical moments around every corner, the event promises a memorable evening for visitors of all ages.

To help make the event as accessible and inclusive as possible, RHS Garden Bridgewater will host a dedicated SEN-friendly evening on 8 December. This specially adapted session will provide a more relaxed experience for visitors with special educational needs and disabilities and their families, with adjustments made to create a welcoming and enjoyable environment.

For full details and to book tickets, visit RHS Bridgewater Glow https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater/whats-on/bridgewater-glowhttps://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/bridgewater/whats-on/bridgewater-glow


Ticket prices:
RHS Members: from £6 per adult and £4 per child
Non-members: from £9.25 per adult and £5.50 per child
Under 5s go free