Everything You Need to Know About … Northern Lights
The enchanting light trail is back at Newcastle's Leazes Park this winter
Looking for a Christmas experience you won't forget? Then Northern Lights, the dazzling illuminated trail at Leazes Park, should be on your radar this festive season.
Judging by its sell-out first run last year, it looks set to become a fixture in the city's calendar and tickets are bound to sell like hotcakes. To make sure you don't miss out on any of the festive fun, we've put together one of our handy guides to help you make the most of this must-do experience.
What is Northern Lights?
It's a series of breath-taking light installations set along a one-mile trail through Leazes Park. Featuring mesmerising musical backdrops and special effects, the trail transforms the park into an enchanting wonderland of light and sound that's bound to delight any visitors.
When is it happening?
Northern Lights will be in place at Leazes Park from 22nd November to 31st December. Opening times vary on certain dates so it’s best to check the Northern Lights website, but the site is generally open from 4pm to 10pm with trail time slots available from 4pm/4:15 pm to 8pm/8:15pm.
What kind of illuminations will there be?
If you thought it was going to be the same as last year, then think again! The team behind Northern Lights have conjured a brand-new series of illuminations for 2024 to wow you all including The Lily – a shimmering showpiece on Leazes Park lake – and Mycelium Network, a fibre optic installation showing mushrooms transitioning through a rainbow of colours. Check out a sneak peak of new illuminations at the Northern Lights website.
There’s also a Christmas Village at the start/end of the trail, but more on that below…
What is the Christmas Village?
It’s an area of the trail packed with delicious food and drink from local traders that’s also home to vintage fairground rides for kids. It’s the perfect way to end your Northern Lights experience and you’re welcome to stay there for as long as you like after the trail!
Whereabouts in Leazes Park is the trail?
The trail starts and ends at the southern entrance of Leazes Park on Barrack Road (just opposite The Black Bull pub).
What’s the best way to get there?
If you’re travelling into the city via public transport, the Barrack Road/Leazes Park stop is conveniently located right outside the southern entrance and served by a number of buses. The closest Metro is St James’ Park which is around a seven-minute walk from Leazes Park.
Travelling by car? There are several car parks nearby including St James’ Park Stadium Car Park, Q-Park on Stowell Street and The Gate Car Park.
How long is the trail?
It’s one mile long and takes around 60 minutes to complete.
Is the trail accessible?
The Northern Lights website states that the trail pathways are accessible to wheelchair and mobility scooter users alongside people bringing prams and pushchairs. Accessible toilets will also be on site.
It’s important to note that some areas of the trail can be uneven and muddy at times so may be hard to navigate. However, event stewards will be on hand to assist anyone having any difficulty passing through certain sections.
Are there any quieter sessions?
There certainly are. Two neuro-inclusive sessions are hosted every year at Northern Lights during which there are less visitors and audio volumes are reduced.
This year, those sessions take place on 4th December and 15th December between 4:15pm and 5:15pm.
How much are tickets?
Adults tickets are £21.50 and tickets for kids aged 3-16 are £14.95. Children aged 2 and under get in for free with adults who have a valid entry ticket and disabled attendees can obtain one free ticket for carers and personal assistants.
Family tickets priced at £66.50 are also available and grant admission for either 2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children.
How do I get tickets?
The best way to secure your ticket is to book via the Northern Lights website. Some tickets may be available to buy at the entrance if they haven’t sold out, but booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid any disappointment.
We’re so lucky to have such an amazing experience as Northern Lights right here in the heart of Newcastle and this year’s edition is sure to enchant everyone who goes along – young and old. So gather your family and friends, immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of sound and colour and perhaps treat yourself to a hot chocolate and some tasty food at the end!
Northern Lights takes place at Leazes Park from 22nd November to 31st December 2024. Swing by the official website for more info and to book tickets.
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