We had a fantastic time at Stockeld Park this week. We visited in the early evening to ensure that it was dark so we could make the most of the winter illuminations, and wow what a spectacle it was!
***MUMBLER DISCOUNT FOR ILLUMINATIONS: HARROGATEMUM
The code is for £2 off per ticket and is the ONLY discount available for Stockeld tickets this season. These codes are valid on Illuminations Only tickets on the following dates: 23rd – 26th November and 30th Nov – 3rd December.***
As we were visiting quite early on in the season, it was unusually quiet – but I don’t feel it impacted on the atmosphere, it made it even more magical I suppose as we had most of the place to ourselves! There was plenty of parking right outside the entrance. Tickets must be purchased online before arrival, and they are offering specific time slots to adhere to the Covid-19 rules and restrictions. Our ticket was booked as “illuminations only”, but this also includes entry to the snowflake maze. All the staff we met around the park were very pleasant, approachable and friendly.
The light installations are of high quality and are really effective dotted around the forest, some of them are synced with music which our little boy loved! We were really impressed with the amount of sanitising stations placed throughout the forest, especially next to/near the interactive attractions. For those who have been to Stockeld before, you will know how much there is to entertain the little ones (play areas, musical instruments, interactive models etc.). As it is all outdoors, you will need to dress for the weather and take wellies/boots if it’s wet. We had no problem pushing the pram around the track, but it was quite bumpy in places as you would expect. The toilets were open, but I’m not sure if there are baby change facilities as we didn’t need to use them.
We spent a good couple of hours, but we did take our time going around and taking it all in. There is something at Stockeld to entertain people of all ages. My husband and I visited with our 8-month-old son, who was in awe of the lights and sounds! The highlight for us had to be the music and light show on the lake (towards the end), we stopped at the little cabin there for a hot chocolate and sat for a while taking it all in.
It was a truly magical experience for both my husband and me, we both said we would have visited even without a child! I think because of the fairytale theme that runs throughout the forest, it really is enjoyable for all ages; after all, in the famous words of Roald Dahl “those who don’t believe in magic will never find it!”.
The ticket included entry to the “snowflake maze” which was the usual maze decorated with white fairy lights. It did look impressive from the tower at the top! Some of the walkways had been gated off to make it a little easier, so it only took us 20 minutes or so to get around. That worked well for us as, by this time, our little one was getting tired, so after this, we headed home. The maze was a nice bonus, but if your ticket includes both I would definitely see the illuminations first as that was the best bit!
Our visit was the perfect start to the festive season. It was the first time I had visited Stockeld Park, and it’s fair to say I was very impressed. I can see this becoming an annual event for my family and me!
By Guest Blogger Elfie
Disclosure: Mumbler was lucky enough to enjoy the Winter Illuminations for free however we pinky promised to only write a truthful account. Phew, we really enjoyed it! (otherwise that could have been awks!)
