Magic Lantern Festival

A quick deviation from Honeymoon posts so I can share with you an evening out that I think you’ll love!

Yesterday evening Himself and I set off to meet two friends at Chiswick House and Gardens, for the UK premiere of the world famous Magic Lantern Festival

It was a dry, clear night, but very cold. As I knew we’d be out for a couple of hours at least, I lined my big winter coat with an L.K. Bennett puffa jacket, which I wore previously here. So although I could have given the michelin man a run for his money, I was extremely comfortable, warm and cosy during our jaunt around the gardens – a win in my book!

All the lanterns were in elaborate designs, beginning with cherry blossom trees, bamboo and a troupe of little pandas who were definitely a bunch of messers!

About a third of the way around you’re accosted by the glorious scent of melted chocolate…we wasted no time and headed towards the stand. You could chose a liquor to go with your hot chocolate and as I did last time I was offered this option, I went with Amaretto – the others did too – while Himself tried the spiced cider (which apparently meant he was at liberty to use a West Country accent…!)

Lots of locals came out to view the art installations, which is always a good sign

My favourite was the Cinderella scene, naturally!

As all four of us are Irish, we were chuffed to see an Irish harp included in the music installation – I mean, surprised – but chuffed nonetheless!

The dragon was fantastic, as tall as a building and looked like it was moving, definitely a must see

The lanterns are so elaborate, just look at all the colours on this building piece, the wrap around fence looks like it was sketched!

There is so much to see and if nothing else, the chat you overhear makes the trip worth it, teenagers gossiping loudly about the rest of their year and three women animatedly sharing hilarious stories about their husbands…I’m sure their hubby’s would be thrilled to know how much we know about them!

And in the event that you feel the need to confess your undying love for someone – there’s a lantern for that too!

You have until Sunday 6 March to see it all for yourself and if you book your tickets in advance you’ll also get a couple of quid off. Entry is every 15mins between 5pm – 8:45pm so make sure to choose your time if you book in advance too.

If you go, send me a picture and enjoy!!

Rxx