Following the huge success of last year’s winter lights trail, Derbyshire’s award-winning visitor attraction, The Heights of Abraham, has announced that the 2025 “Lights of Abraham” will shine from November 21st.
The 2025 Lights of Abraham will feature new glittering archways, interactive stepping stones, a neon forest, giant illuminated creatures including majestic swans, and colourful surprises round every corner along a trail that can take over an hour to complete.
Rupert Pugh, Development Director at the Heights, explains: “Last year’s winter trail was very popular, so this year we wanted to make sure that returning, as well as new guests have plenty of new features to enjoy. It’s going to be a stunning display. Once the park closes for the main season on November 2nd, the team will set to work installing tens of thousands of lights, illuminated figures and festive decorations. We’re aiming to be even more spectacular than last year”.
The famous Vista bar and Treetops Café will be open for festive tipples alongside hot snacks and delicious cakes and Christmas treats. Firepits will also be installed outside to toast marshmallows and warm up a little.
Guests will arrive via the festoon-lit riverside walkway before boarding cable cars to take a flight across the valley and up through an avenue of colour to the summit. Once at the top, the trail winds along a circular tarmac pathway past historic structures, through woodlands and across raised boardwalks. The trail is pushchair friendly, but dogs are not allowed due to the salt used to maintain the pathways in icy conditions.
The historic estate will close the main season exhibitions and attractions on November 2nd before transforming for the Winter Trail, which opens to the public on Friday 21st November. The Lights of Abraham then shine on selected nights until December 30th excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Tickets have been on sale for a few weeks now, and popular dates and times are already selling out. Tickets start at just £16 for children aged 4 to 15 years. Under 4’s are admitted free, and adult tickets cost £22. Tickets can be obtained from the official website www.heightsofabraham.com/lights
Open from 4.00pm to 8pm
Friday 21st November to Tuesday 30th December
Selected days only, see website for details
Here are a few reviews from visitors to the 2024 Lights of Abraham Trail:
“From the moment we stepped under the lit walkway to the cable cars, to the moment we got back to the walkway, we were taken to a fantastic fantasy place. What a treat for the eyes and soul. All the staff were so jolly, helpful and welcoming which added to the whole experience” – Jeanette C (by email).
“It was so well laid out, so pretty with stunning views of Matlock as well as the pretty lights themselves and the lovely atmosphere. The staff were friendly and helpful, dotted around to provide assistance. We tried toasting marshmallows on the open fires, which was lovely and loved the cable car at night, it was very different to riding it in the daytime and provided great views of Matlock and Matlock Bath. Just a special evening.” – Jo D (TripAdvisor)
“Came tonight and had the most wonderful evening. Clearly a lot of thought has gone into this trail with magic around every corner. If you want a lantern show this isn’t for you. We spent about 2 hours here and left feeling amazed!” Rachel H (TripAdvisor)
“Cable cars were a completely different experience in the dark, and the views were still spectacular, showcasing Matlock down below with everyone’s Christmas lights on… The light trail itself was cleverly done and well planned, and the Winter Special drinks in the Alpine Lodge Cafe fit the bill.” – Tony F (TripAdvisor)
“Visited for the lights of Abraham. It was lovely. Really put us in the mood for Christmas. Every single member of staff we saw were friendly and helpful. Very happy to chat, tell us about the attraction etc. Toasted marshmallows were great, lights were lovely, really well presented.” – Carol T (TripAdvisor)
Posted on 06 October 2025
