A NEW after-dark experience is lighting up Edwardian gardens at the National Trust’s historic Polesden Lacey estate near Dorking.
The stunning estate deep in the Surrey countryside will be encompassed in autumnal gold until November 7, for its first-ever IGNITE trail.
Visitors receive handheld lanterns for the first part of trail, so they can walk through the darkness, lighting up their magical meander through tree-lined avenues.
As twilight falls, the IGNITE magic begins. Expect the unexpected, with glimpses of fairies that could be dancing in lanterns, playful top hats and teapots as you stroll through an enchanting landscape.
Spot fire breathing dragons, a river of flames and fire balls, and wander through the 50-metre long tunnel of light adorned with more than 100,000 pea-lights.
Feel dwarfed by the majesty of nature passing giant badgers, robins and other woodland wildlife sculpted in willow, and see the house illuminated as you’ve never seen it before.
Polesden Lacey was once home to the famous Edwardian hostess Margaret Greville, who entertained royalty and the celebrities of her time.
Katherine Mills, National Trust general manager for Polesden Lacey, said: “We’re so excited to welcome visitors to Polesden Lacey for this enchanting trail this autumn.
"It is the first time we’ve hosted something like this at Polesden Lacey and we’re thrilled with how the gardens are illuminated in such a magical way.”
The trail has been specially designed for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
For tickets (adult £15, child £10, family £45, free entry for carers and children aged two and under) visit nationaltrust.org.uk/polesden-lacey-ignite
There is an addition parking charge of £7 per car (free for National Trust members).