The magical woodland of Blakemere is a place straight out of a fairytale. Located in the heart of Cheshire, England, this enchanting woodland is a haven for those seeking solace in nature and a touch of magic. As you step into Blakemere, you are immediately transported to a mystical realm. Tall, ancient trees tower over you, their branches reaching out like welcoming arms. The air is filled with the melodious chirping of birds and the gentle rustling of leaves, creating a symphony that soothes the soul. Wandering through the woodland, you come across numerous hidden nooks and crannies, each with its own unique charm.
Review: Magical Woodland at Blakemere Village was brilliant
When I was little, the closest thing to a winter lights trail was going for a Christmas Eve walk to see the neighbours’ decorations.
But in recent years Christmas lights trails have become as much a part of the festive season as Santa’s grottos and pantomimes.
With so much choice now, the biggest dilemma is not whether to book one but which one to choose?
Magical Woodland at Blakemere Village in Northwich opened on Friday and if you’re looking for a trail that will make the kids giggle as well as gaze at the twinkling lights then it could be a great option for you.
As well as the usual selfies in the lights tunnel, this trail also has a number of marked photo spots in front of glowing steam trains, angel wings and beautifully decorated chairs to fit all the family.
But the best thing about this trail is the levels of interactivity and entertainment.
After the first few bends we arrived in Whoville and found a real-life Cindy Lou asking little ones what they would like for Christmas before we could hear laughter and yells as the Grinch had appeared from his cave.
The Grinch (Image: Newsquest)
My three-year-old boy was a bit wary of the green meanie so we didn’t hover for long but later we heard plenty of older children saying the Grinch was their highlight.
Further around the trail we also spotted Tinkerbell waving to crowds from a lit-up pirate ship and visitors could also get up close to two barn owls and an Eagle owl.
Before you leave, Mrs Claus is also on hand to help youngsters post their letters to the big man in red.
And of course you’ll also get to see the main man himself during a special show right at the end of the trail.
We finished off the evening enjoying a mulled wine and hot chocolate from the street food stalls at the end of the walk before toasting marshmallows over the campfires dotted around the food area.
There was a good choice of food options from a number of huts including wood fired pizza, loaded fries, burgers and nachos accompanied by a soundtrack of festive faves.
Families can toast marshmallows at Blakemere Village (Image: Blakemere Village)
Overall Magical Woodland is a brilliant experience for younger families looking for something a bit different.
As well as beautiful lights there were also projections showing dancing snowmen as well as animatronic talking owls and singing reindeers that all help to make it a memorable visit for youngsters.
Just watch out for that mean old Grinch!
Magical Woodland is open from now until December 24.
Tickets are £23.95 for adults, £16.50 for children and family tickets are £75.
Blakemere Village, Christmas woodland review
Last Friday we were invited* to a preview of Blakemere Villages’s Christmas woodland in Northwich.
We were greeted by one of the elves and taken into the magical woodland where we went on a journey to help save Christmas by collecting the Christmas spirit in sprinkles.
The woodland was beautifully decorated with various bells, baubles, signs and bunting. One of the elves led us through the magical woodland explaining that the magic of Christmas was very low and we needed to try and save Christmas.
We came across a beautiful owl up in a tree who was called Melody. Melody had a chat and sing to us and together we managed to get the magic of Christmas up a notch. After seeing Melody, we continued through the woods until we came across Wiley the Fox’s den.
Through acting and singing Wiley the Fox told us how he knew Father Christmas and with our help, restored a bit more of the magic of Christmas. After leaving Wiley the Fox we found Jack Frost walking through the woods!
He was very energetic and eager to chat to us all and help restore some more magic. We even got to meet a unicorn and the Snow Princess here. After another short walk we found Father Christmas in his post office! Each child got to meet him individually and had the opportunity to take photos. The children where each given a gift (Christmas book) and had a chat before we continued our journey.
The final stop was to Mrs. Claus’s kitchen where she was baking gingerbread people. We were each given a gingerbread to decorate and Mrs Claus and her elves put on a great show singing to us. The parents were given a gift here too which I thought was a lovely touch, I received a beautiful red candle in a glass jar and D received a Christmas beer.
After we had finished in the kitchen, we were shown the ice rink that was opening up the day after and also got to see Snowy the owl. There was a wishing tree too that we could hang our written wishes on for 2019. The experience was finished off perfectly with hot chocolates, cookies, mince pies and toasting marshmallows over the fire pit.
We had an incredible afternoon and I would definitely recommend it. Blakemere Village have managed to combine a family activity with meeting Father Christmas and going to the theatre seamlessly x
The Magical Woodland at Blakemere Village gets set to launch the North West’s biggest Christmas light trail
The Magical Woodland at Blakemere Village, Cheshire, are getting ready to unveil the North-West’s biggest and best Christmas Light Trail.
Set across 15 acres of stunning countryside, this enchanting and interactive forest walk welcomes all of your favourite Christmas characters along the journey.
Meet the Grumpy Grinch at Whoville, pop by and check out the amazing house from ‘Deck the Halls’ and then take the second star to the right and visit Tinker Bell in Neverland. And don’t forget to wrap up well as you encounter the ‘Frozen Woodland’ before you meet Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and their trusty Elves.
Credit: The Magical Woodland
One of the region’s most popular visitor attractions is sure to sell out fast this year as over a million fairy lights, multiple laser displays, digital animation, dazzling tunnels, and captivating canopies of lights and festive tunes transform the autumn woodland into the a world of pure joy and excitement bringing festive fun to all the family.
Steve Birchall, The Magical Woodland, said:
“This year’s installation is the bigger and better than ever before with some wonderful festive scenes and guaranteed fun for all the family. The food court is a magical oasis with plenty of choice and our interactive characters add a magical touch to the whole experience. Our 2023 Light Trail is enchanting and captivating.”
Credit: The Magical Woodland
Guests will be allocated a 90 minute slot from the time of entry and the interactive sound and light experience can be looped as many times as you wish, with plenty of opportunities to refuel and warm up with tasty snacks and hot drinks at the stunning food court.
Whether you want to stop off at one of the cosy fire pits to roast marshmallows or enjoy delicious street food style treats in the food court your festive experience will be one for the memory bank!
Magical Woodland characters will be joining guests throughout the route as performance art brings some scenes to life adding interactive fun to the occasion and endless opportunities to take amazing photographs along the way.
Credit: The Magical Woodland
If you are looking for a date night with a difference, a family fun adventure, or a night out with friends or colleagues the only thing you need to bring with you to make unforgettable, and Instagrammable, memories is your imagination.
Whatever you are doing to get ready for the ‘big day’ The Magical Woodland will brighten up your preparations and help you to make some truly captivating Christmas memories!
Wandering through the woodland, you come across numerous hidden nooks and crannies, each with its own unique charm. Moss-covered stone bridges span sparkling streams, inviting you to cross over and discover what lies beyond. The forest floor is adorned with vibrant wildflowers, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that never fails to bring a smile.
But what truly sets Blakemere apart is the presence of magical creatures. From the mischievous fairies that flit about in the sunlight, to the wise old owls who perch on branches, observing the world below, there is always an element of enchantment in the air. Keen-eyed visitors may even catch a glimpse of the elusive unicorn, as it gracefully blends in with its surroundings, its silver mane glimmering in the dappled light. Blakemere is not just a place to visit, but a place to connect with the essence of nature and magic. The woodland holds a sense of tranquility and serenity that can ease the worries of everyday life. Many visitors come to Blakemere to meditate or simply sit and listen to the whispers of the trees. For those looking for a little more adventure, there are plenty of activities to partake in. From guided nature walks to tree-climbing adventures, there are endless ways to explore and immerse oneself in the beauty of Blakemere. Visitors can also enjoy picnics by the tranquil lakes or embark on a thrilling treasure hunt, searching for hidden magical artifacts. Blakemere is a testament to the power and wonder of nature. It reminds us that there is still magic to be found in the world, if only we take the time to look. So whether you believe in fairies or simply want to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, a visit to the magical woodland of Blakemere is sure to leave you spellbound..
Reviews for "Blakemere's Woodland Adventures: Discovering the Unexpected"
1. Emma - 2/5
I was really looking forward to visiting the Magical Woodland Blakemere, but I was quite disappointed with my experience. Firstly, the entrance fee was quite expensive for what was on offer. The magical woodland was advertised as a place filled with wonder and enchantment, but all I saw were a few fairy lights hanging from the trees. The activities for children were limited and not very engaging. Overall, I felt that the experience fell short of the magical promise it made.
2. James - 1/5
I wouldn't recommend the Magical Woodland Blakemere to anyone. The whole experience felt like a money-making scheme rather than a magical escape. The ticket prices were exorbitant, and there was barely anything to see or do. The decorations were minimal, and the advertised interactive elements were either broken or non-existent. I left feeling underwhelmed and like I had wasted my time and money. Save yourself the disappointment and skip this one.
3. Sarah - 2/5
I had heard great things about the Magical Woodland Blakemere, so I had high expectations when I visited. Unfortunately, my experience didn't live up to the hype. The woodland was not well-maintained, and the paths were muddy and slippery. The advertised 'magical' elements were few and far between, and the whole atmosphere was lacking in the enchantment I had anticipated. The only positive aspect was the friendly staff, but even they couldn't salvage the disappointing experience overall.