WHEN
Thursday
Thursday 17 September 2026
TIME
1.30pm to 3.00pm
VENUE
Wakehurst Place
Selsfield Road • Ardingly • Near Haywards Heath • Sussex • RH17 6TN
Find us easily using the free what3words app:
///upgrading.bounding.january
Use Google Pin:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/zUtHy8C2fv3GrDsH7
By car
B2028, south of Turners Hill and north of Ardingly.
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- From London, take the M25 then M23, leave at Junction 10, turn left onto the A264
- On the A264 go straight over first two roundabouts, turn right at next roundabout, onto the B2028
- Wakehurst is on the right after Turners Hill
On approaching Wakehurst please follow signage rather than relying on your SatNav, as it will bring you to the North Drive entrance which is the wrong one.
Parking
Free parking when booked through Waythrough.
There are currently no electric car charging stations.
For more information, visit the Wakehurst page: https://www.kew.org/wakehurst/visit-wakehurst
FACILITATED BY
Angie and the expert lantern makers from Glow Wild at Wakehurst.
ABOUT THIS SESSION
Immerse yourself in the wonder of Glow Wild and work with expert lantern-makers to help illuminate the iconic trail.
These relaxed sessions offer a welcoming space to get creative, learn simple techniques, and take part in one of Wakehurst’s best-loved winter events.
You’ll explore materials and approaches used in Glow Wild while contributing your own lanterns to the trail, becoming part of the display as a community group and returning to see your creations illuminated.
It’s a friendly, inclusive experience designed to be enjoyed by all abilities.
How the lanterns are made:
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- The Frame: Sticks are used for the frame base. Some of the more intricate, larger structures made by the experts use soaked willow is bent and woven into intricate shapes, from giant moons to delicate flowers.
- The Shell: The structure is covered in several layers of tissue paper or specialist translucent paper, bonded together with dilute PVA glue.
- The Glow: The structures are illuminated from within using eco-friendly LED lights or buttonlites.
This is an opportunity to connect with others, try something creative and be part of a joyful celebration of the Glow Wild trail and enjoyed by many.
Booking is essential via Waythrough and spaced are limited!
Entry and parking are free. Refreshments are not included, so please bring anything you may need for the afternoon.
What is Glow Wild?
Glow Wild is an award-winning, open-air winter light trail held at Wakehurst, the wild botanic garden in Sussex (Kew’s sister site). The magical, family-friendly event transforms the ancient woodlands and gardens into an illuminated wonderland after dark.
The trail combines nature, conservation, and art with the following highlights:
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- Handmade Lanterns: The trees, ponds, and forest floors are brought to life by hundreds of intricate, artist-crafted lanterns and fire installations made by the arts charity Same Sky.
- Nature-Inspired Themes: Each year features a new theme—such as the “gifts of nature” or biodiversity—where visitors encounter glowing mythical creatures, massive animal sculptures, and giant illuminated flora.
- The Route: The trail is just under a mile long and typically takes about an hour to walk. It is fully accessible and includes winter food and drink stalls along the way.
- The Tree: It features the UK’s tallest living Christmas tree, glowing with thousands of energy-saving bulbs.
WHO CAN JOIN THESE SESSIONS
Anyone who lives in Surrey and is over the age of 16.
HOW THE SESSIONS ARE RUN
Face-to-face with our Community Connections Team and facilitators from Wakehurst
HOW TO JOIN
If you are currently registered with Waythrough, all you need to do is speak to your Community Links Advisor or email waythroughcc@waythrough.org.uk and to let us know which course or workshop you would like to attend.
If you are new to Waythrough, you will be asked to complete a registration form and have an introductory call with one of the team. Please find an online application form here: Waythrough Booking Form.
Alternatively you can call us on 01737 771 282 or email us to arrange joining on waythroughcc@waythrough.org.uk.
After completing the booking & registration form you will receive an introductory welcome call from one of our team.
It’s not always possible to join a session happening the same day, but we often have regular sessions weekly. We’re normally able to respond within 24/48 hours of you contacting us.
Follow us on Facebook: @WaythroughCC
Our national website is: waythrough.org.uk
