The stunning Christmas lights trail just off M3 with glittering tunnels and mulled wine

It's that time of year again, winter walk season, and there's no better way to soak up the upcoming festivities than with a stroll around somewhere pretty with a steaming mug of mulled wine. On Tuesday (November 12) I was invited to the launch of Kew Gardens' famous Christmas lights walk, located 18 minutes drive from Surrey and just off the M3.

Returning to the botanical gardens having only visited last month for the venue's Halloween walk, its Christmas route was much bigger, brighter and bolder. And it was better than last year too.

I went along with my mum and 10-month old baby, snuggled in her oversized snow suit and cute woolly hat. I too was wrapped up for blizzard conditions as I loathe being cold. Parking can be terribly tricky around Kew, but luckily we found a car space on the road just down the road from the gates.

The trail is pram and wheelchair friendly, however, I detest taking a buggy in crowded spaces so I opted for the sling, plus Ivy's body heat kept me extra warm. The journey down the M3 in rush hour was drizzly and busy, but thankfully the rain stopped as soon as we arrived at Victoria Gate and we were blessed with a dry, and magical night.

Fantastically organised with plenty of marshals around, Brentford Gate and Elizabeth Gate are also open for access. As soon as we arrived there was a wave of excitement and festive buzz in the air, despite it only being mid-November with Christmas some six weeks away.

READ MORE: Sneak peek inside Kew's famous Christmas lights trail

Running from November to early January on selected dates, we entered the garden at 6.30pm. When booking your tickets, you need to select an arrival time so that not everyone descends on the venue at the same time, and the event is open from 4.20pm to 10pm.

The 3km circuit was brimming with enchanting illuminations, featuring more than 20 dazzling installations, including some fascinating new displays. The walk started off in a different direction to last year and the glittery welcome arch was perfect for a selfie.

The three of us strolled around the mesmerising path dotted with colours passing Kew's top attractions along the way. The trees gleamed with jewel-toned lights and there were plenty of spots for a fabulous family photos.

One spot in particular was the much-loved dazzling tunnel I remembered from last year. It was stunning and a joy to walk through. But my favourite bit had to be a new tunnel of colourful ribbons towards the end of the walk which was a lot of fun.

There were cute little chalets spread out along the walk where you could stop for festive food and drink. At the beginning of the trail there were stands selling hot dogs, mac and cheese, churros and mulled wine. Further into the experience, there was jerk chicken, teriyaki bowls, saffron rice bowls, Indian street food, burgers, fries and hot chocolates available.

We passed a wonderfully festive Disaronno hut surrounded by white Christmas trees where I sampled an indulgent cup of Disaronno Velvet. The smooth cream liqueur tasted like boozy melted white chocolate. It was divine.

We also passed a charming marshmallow den where you could purchase the fluffy sweets on sticks and toast them on one of two crackling fires until they go all gooey and delicious. We also spotted Father Christmas along the way which was a nice surprise, and fairground rides too.

The final installation of the event was over a lake. It was the most spectacular lights show with fabulous water reflections and dramatic music. It took us around two hours to complete the walk which included a pit stop for food and drink.

A few things to note - there were toilets and baby changing facilities at the entrance/ finish and the walk ends at the gift shop jam-packed with gorgeous Christmas presents and home décor. There is no need to wear wellies or walking boots as the tarmac path is flat and clean.

Quiet access sessions are available on November 30 and December 3, 18 and 28 for visitors with hidden disabilities such as autism. While ticket prices are pretty steep at £32 for adults and £20 for children, it's the longest Christmas lights walk I've ever been on and there was plenty to do and see to get your money's worth.

We were wowed in every direction, and it certainly got us in the festive spirit.

Useful things to know and how to book tickets for Kew:

• Opening dates: November 13 to January 5 2025.

• Opening times: 4.20pm to 10pm.

• Address: Kew Gardens, Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AE.

• Price: £32 adults, £20 children (ages 4-15), children under 4 go free, family tickets £94.

• Book: Visit kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/christmas.

• Last entry between 7-8pm depending on entry gate. Last entry on Christmas Eve is up to an hour earlier.

• Bicycles, tricycles, roller skates, skateboards, micro-scooters, balance bikes and other vehicles (except powered wheelchairs) are not permitted at this event and must be left at the gates.

Find out more about things to do and activities in Surrey with our free What’s On email HERE.