Illuminate Poole brings an evening light trail to Upton Country Park from 20 November 2026 to 3 January 2027. This is a ticketed country-park visit, so head to Upton rather than assuming the lights are on Poole Quay.
At a glance
| Event | Illuminate Poole 2026 at Upton Country Park |
|---|---|
| Venue | Upton Country Park |
| Dates | 20 November 2026–3 January 2027; selected closure dates |
| Tickets | Advance online booking required; choose a dated entry slot |
The trail and how long to allow
The organiser suggests about an hour on the trail, with another 15–20 minutes for the Alpine Village. Allow longer if your group likes to stop for photographs or refreshments. The setting is outdoors, and food and drink purchases need their own budget. Book a slot that leaves time for the return journey after your visit.
Dates, tickets and parking
Published opening hours are 4–9pm, with entry controlled by your booked slot. Closure dates include 23 and 24 November and 25 and 26 December. Tickets must be booked online in advance; the organiser says there is no gate sale. Check the price and total for your chosen date before paying, and add the parking ticket at checkout if arriving by car.
Is the route suitable for your group?
The event guidance describes mixed grass and track surfaces with limited tarmac. It recommends an off-road buggy and warns that folding wheelchairs may be unsuitable. Contact the organiser before booking if ground conditions or mobility access will determine your visit. Essential-companion arrangements use a Nimbus application. Pet dogs are restricted to selected dog-friendly dates; check the booking calendar. Children require an accompanying adult aged 18 or over.
How to get there
Upton Country Park is three miles northwest of Poole town centre and is signposted from the A35 and A350. Morebus routes 8, 10 and 40 serve the entrance according to the park’s travel guide; check evening return services for your actual date. Hamworthy is the nearest railway station, while Poole station is about three miles away. The park describes walking approaches, but assess lighting and winter conditions before relying on a woodland or waterside route after dark.
Before leaving home
Use the event’s entry and parking instructions rather than the park’s ordinary daytime opening hours. Bring waterproof outerwear and shoes with grip, and check any weather update before travelling. Save your tickets where you can reach them without relying on a mobile signal at the entrance. A visit with young children will be easier if you build in time for a toilet stop and a warm drink without rushing the booked arrival.
Check official event information and booking details.
Location and Google map
Upton Country Park, Poole Road, Upton, Poole, BH17 7BJ.
Open the location in Google Maps.
Information checked 27 October 2026. Dates, prices and visitor arrangements can change; confirm with the organiser before travel. Sources: Illuminate Poole; Event visitor information; Upton Country Park directions.