Families are invited to set sail on an enchanting after-dark adventure as ‘The Tale of a Winter Whale’ brings a spectacular world of light, storytelling and ocean magic to Hall Place & Gardens.
Running from Thursday 3 to Sunday 6 December, this breathtaking illuminated experience invites visitors of all ages to dive deep into a wondrous winter sea.
As darkness falls, follow a spectacular lantern-lit trail through oceans near and far. A grand whale is on a quest and Neptune is searching for someone dear to him. Along the way, visitors might glimpse mermaids sharing secrets or find pirates who seem to know more than they are letting on. From tropical waters to icy Arctic seas, glowing sea creatures and magical characters await around every corner.
Tickets for ‘The Tale of a Winter Whale’ are on sale now, with adult tickets priced at £15.50 and child tickets at £10.50.
Councillor Rags Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Environment, Culture and Leisure, said:
After the incredible joy and popularity of our previous winter light trail ‘Alice and the Queen’s Beasts’, we are thrilled to bring a brand-new magical adventure to Hall Place & Gardens. ‘The Tale of a Winter Whale’ promises a truly unique and immersive evening for the whole family to enjoy right here in Bexley.
I’d encourage everyone to book their tickets early, wrap up warm and come along to experience this fantastic festive journey for themselves."
‘The Tale of a Winter Whale’ is created by award-winning outdoor arts specialists ‘Same Sky’. The same creative team brought ‘The Alice & the Queen’s Beasts’ to Hall Place & Gardens in 2025, attracting over 4,000 visitors throughout its four-day run.
Amy Keogh, Chief Executive, Same Sky, said:
We're thrilled to be back at Hall Place & Gardens for this year's Winter Light Trail. Following the success of last year's Alice and the Queen's Beasts event, we promise this year will be bigger and more impressive, with even more wonderful performances, lights and excitement. We're very much looking forward to working with the team at Hall Place & Gardens once again, and to welcoming the local community of Bexley and beyond."
What to expect on your voyage
- an immersive illuminated trail through the historic gardens
- stunning giant lanterns and light installations
- live characters and interactive storytelling encounters
- help find the missing Mermaid Princess and solve the Pirate’s code
- a children’s themed craft activity (included with your ticket)
- magical photo opportunities under the winter stars
The magic does not stop at the end of the trail. Make a full evening of it by exploring the Hall Place Christmas Festive Market, run by CC Events, featuring 25 to 30 wonderful stalls nestled in the Visitor’s Centre Courtyard. The market will be open from 4pm to 10pm on Thursday and Friday, and 12pm to 10pm on Saturday and Sunday. Entry to the Christmas Festive Market is free and no booking is needed.
Head on over to the community stage for free entertainment including local music and dance performers throughout the event (Thursday to Sunday).
Jambs Owls will also be open from 4pm to 8.30pm throughout the event (Thursday to Sunday) offering their festive owl visits and experiences for £4 for adults and £3 for children.
Visitors can also warm up with seasonal hot food and drinks at the Riverside Café, which will remain open throughout the experience.
At the weekend additional attractions are available. Hall Place Bexley Farmers Market is open from 10am to 2pm on Sunday 6 December on the East Lawn. The miniature railway, run by Welling and District Model Engineering Society, will also be offering rides for £1.50 per person from 12pm to 3pm on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December. Find them in the gardens by walking over the weir bridge next to the Visitor Centre and turning left.
Following the incredible popularity of last year's event, tickets for 'The Tale of a Winter Whale' are expected to be in high demand.
Wrap up warm, gather your crew and secure your voyage by booking online to experience Bexley's premiere winter adventure.