Christmas at Kew returns this year as one of the UK’s most enchanting illuminated trails, offering an unforgettable way to ring in the festive season or welcome the New Year. The gardens transform into a sparkling wonderland, filled with the sights and sounds of Christmas. Visitors can expect glittering light tunnels, shimmering lakeside reflections, and trees lit up in vibrant, jewel-like hues, creating a botanical display that overflows with holiday spirit.

The magic continues with immersive installations, including a fire garden with flickering flames, larger-than-life illuminations, and even a chance to spot Father Christmas along the trail. To complete the festive experience, Kew’s independent street food vendors will be serving seasonal favourites—from warm, spiced winter drinks to sweet treats and comforting hot dishes.

Important Information for Visitors

Due to limited capacity, entry to Christmas at Kew is timed, so early booking is essential to secure your preferred date and time. The gardens close at 10 pm, with last entry at 8 pm (or an hour earlier on 24 December).

For group bookings of fifteen or more, a special page is available for reservations. Additionally, Quiet Access sessions will be held on 30 November, and 3, 18, and 28 December for visitors with hidden disabilities, providing a more relaxed atmosphere while still showcasing the sensory wonder of Christmas at Kew.

Planning Your Visit

For complete details on entry times, ticket information, and accessibility guidelines, please refer to the Christmas at Kew booking page. Bicycles, tricycles, and other personal vehicles (except powered wheelchairs) are not permitted inside the event grounds and must be left at the gates.

Kew Gardens is also committed to a sustainable event, so you can enjoy the festivities with an eye on environmental care.

As we recommended last March in our article, The best music festivals in London 2024, our team at Reading West visited the highly anticipated Jazz Cafe Festival – and here’s our review.

The inaugural Jazz Cafe Festival 2024 had all the ingredients for a standout event, and while it hit some high notes, there were a few areas where it fell short. As with any brand-new festival, some teething problems were to be expected. However, certain missteps, particularly in the VIP area, left attendees feeling underwhelmed.

The VIP experience, in particular, did not deliver as promised. Many guests paid extra for the perks, but the so-called VIP queue jump didn’t exactly speed things up. In fact, many found themselves waiting just as long as general admission ticket holders. The VIP area itself, while exclusive, offered an almost non-existent view of the stage, which was frustrating for those hoping to be closer to the action. Additionally, the space was overcrowded, leading to long waits for drinks and a distinct lack of the “luxury” experience that VIP ticket holders were expecting.

One of the most glaring issues was the “luxury” toilets – of which there were only three! Female attendees, in particular, found themselves queuing for quite some time. Once inside, the facilities were indeed luxurious, but it seemed that the festival organisers had forgotten to arrange a proper cleaning rota. As the day wore on, the sparkle of these high-end loos began to fade, leaving many unimpressed.

Despite these hiccups, the festival delivered far more positives than negatives. The vibrant and diverse crowd reflected the festival’s eclectic music line-up. It was a kaleidoscope of cultures, styles, and attitudes – a true celebration of jazz’s global influence. From colourfully dressed attendees to those smartly or casually attired, everyone was united by their love of music, and it showed in the way people danced freely to the different tunes filling the air.

Musically, the festival was a triumph. Rapsody brought fierce energy to the stage with her electrifying blend of hip-hop and jazz, proving why she’s a force to be reckoned with in modern music. Buena Vista Social Club offered a dose of nostalgia, delivering their trademark Cuban rhythms to an adoring crowd, turning the venue into a sea of swaying fans. Rising star Eliza was another standout, her soulful voice captivating the audience, while Nils Frahm created an atmospheric, almost cinematic experience with his unique fusion of electronic and classical sounds.

A special highlight of the festival was the touching tribute to the audience itself, with a Latin jazz rendition of Coldplay’s ‘Clocks’. This unexpected cover, reimagined with vibrant Latin rhythms and soulful trumpet solos, struck a chord with the crowd, creating a beautiful, shared moment of connection. It was a perfect example of how the festival celebrated the power of music to unite people from all walks of life.

Overall, the Jazz Cafe Festival 2024 had its fair share of organisational issues, particularly in terms of VIP logistics. However, these are problems that can be ironed out with time, and given the overwhelmingly positive atmosphere generated by the music and the crowd, there’s plenty of potential for future festivals to improve. With such an incredible range of artists and a crowd eager to celebrate the best of jazz and beyond, the foundation is certainly there for this festival to become a major annual event.

In just a few hours, the town of Reading will transform into the epicenter of one of the world’s most celebrated music festivals. Music lovers from all corners flock to Reading to experience a festival with a legacy that stretches back over three decades. Over the years, legendary acts like The Chemical Brothers, Foo Fighters, Oasis, and Prodigy have lit up the Reading Festival stage. If you’re planning to attend this iconic event for the first time, you’re in for a treat. This article is packed with essential tips for navigating Reading Festival 2024, so jump right in.

The Reading Festival has become an annual tradition, drawing crowds of music enthusiasts year after year, no matter the weather. Festival-goers have braved rain, endured sweltering heat, and embraced the mud, learning the art of packing smartly. You’ll want to bring two sets of clothing, prioritizing shorts and T-shirts, but don’t forget waterproof gear and warm layers as rain is expected on Saturday. A quality sleeping bag is a must, and remember to pack light—dragging a heavy bag while hunting for the perfect camping spot is far from fun.

Towels are essential; one can dry you off on rainy days, while the other provides a cool respite when soaked in cold water during hot spells. Wet wipes are invaluable for reasons you’ll soon discover. Sunscreen is crucial for Friday and Sunday to avoid painful sunburns that could ruin your festival experience. If you enjoy a beer (and who doesn’t?), consider bringing your own to avoid the high prices at the festival. Other must-haves include a hat for sun protection, plenty of water to stay hydrated, sunglasses, glow sticks, and a waterproof hoodie for unexpected downpours.

Selecting the right tent is key to a successful Reading Festival adventure. Choose one that stands out so you can easily find it amidst the sea of tents. Otherwise, you might find yourself awkwardly entering the wrong one more than once. Avoid pitching your tent near hedgerows or main pathways, as these areas can be problematic. The ideal spot is near a tree and close to the arena where the bands play. Finally, don’t forget to make new friends, wear your trendiest jeans, and embrace the festival atmosphere with confidence!

And most importantly, don’t miss the First Timer’s Guide from Reading Festival—it’s an essential read for newcomers.