About the trail
As daylight fades, Hever Castle's gardens, lake and grounds glow with twinkling colour for its evening Twilight experience, themed around The Nutcracker for Christmas 2026. Dogs are welcome along the illuminated route every evening as long as they stay on a lead, with mulled wine and hot chocolate stops along the way. Book a twilight slot in advance and wrap up warm.
Bringing your dog
- Dogs welcome every night, on a lead
- Dogs welcome on the illuminated grounds every evening during the Twilight experience, on a lead
- Dogs cannot enter the Castle, Grotto, cafes, restaurants, shops or mazes (assistance dogs excepted)
- Wrap up warm and wear suitable footwear for the after-dark route
Dog policy and dates last checked: 1 October 2026 · from the venue's own website. Dog nights change each year, so confirm before you travel.
On the trail
Food & drink
Visiting
Getting there
Hever Castle Christmas Twilight is in Hever, Kent. Tap below for turn-by-turn directions.
Get directionsCommon questions
Can I bring my dog to Hever Castle Christmas Twilight?
Yes. Hever Castle Christmas Twilight is a dog-friendly Christmas light trail in Hever, Kent. Pet dogs are welcome every night, on a lead. On a lead at all times.
When is Hever Castle Christmas Twilight on?
20 November 2026 to 2 January 2027 ('A Nutcracker's Christmas'). Dates and dog nights change each year, so check the trail's own booking page before you travel.
Are dogs allowed off the lead at Hever Castle Christmas Twilight?
No. On a lead at all times. Light trails are dark and busy with fire features and crowds, so keep your dog close and well back from flames and lit water.