The UK’s Tallest Living Christmas Tree Will Feature 1,800 Energy-Saving Bulbs

Here’s when you can see the tree this year.

The UK’s tallest living Christmas tree — towering 37 metres above ground — will be on display at Kew Gardens‘ Sussex site from November.

As part of Wakehurst’s enchanting winter lantern trail, Glow Wild, the giant redwood tree (Sequoiadendron giganteum) is set to dazzle visitors with 1,800 energy-saving bulbs hanging from its branches. Planted in 1890 at the countryside site, the tree was first decorated for Christmas almost 30 years.

Hailed as one of Sussex’s favourite winter experiences, Glow Wild returns for its ninth year and is packed full of festive surprises. Highlights this year include 11 bespoke installations, an exploration of the animal kingdom with a series of playful lantern sculptures inspired by the world of insects, and a shimmering array of lantern birds created by Sussex-based metal sculptor, Michelle Dufaur.

Meanwhile, Wakehurst’s mysterious Black Pond will transform into spectacle of bioluminescent plants formed of luminous UV materials above and under water, from artist Malgorzata Lisiecka.

Venturing into new ground for the first time, over 300 points of fire will transform the dark woodland path at Wakehurst. This will also feature a specially commissioned soundscape, as well as clusters of cloud-shaped lanterns.

‘This year, Glow Wild celebrates the spectrum of colours in nature, inviting you to explore how we see colour and the role it plays in our daily lives,’ the team at Kew Gardens say. ‘As darkness falls, the gardens are brought to life with beautifully hand-crafted lanterns and captivating light installations created by leading artists.’

JAMES RATCHFORD/KEW GARDENS

For more information about how to book your ticket, head to kew.org/wakehurst. Glow Wild will open on selected evenings from 24th November until 1st January 2023. Make sure to book your spot before tickets sell out.